Different Types Of Swimming Pools

A swimming pool is a great addition to a home. It increases property value, revamps the outdoor aesthetics of a residence and serves as an entertainment amenity. There are numerous types of swimming pools. They vary in design, size, materials and fittings. Although the catalog of options is huge, you can classify swimming pools based on the following features:

 

Ground installation

In this classification, swimming pools are divided into in-ground, semi-inground and above ground pools.

 

In ground swimming pool

It is the most popular design. An in ground pool as the name suggests, is installed into the ground. The boundaries of the pool are not raised above the ground level. Installation of the pool involves digging a hole into the ground to house the pool. Inground pools are permanent and have a labour intensive installation process. Technicians and construction engineers are involved in the installation process and it’s almost impossible to have an inground pool without professional help.

 

Above ground pool

Unlike an inground pool an above ground pool is installed above ground level. The entire pool rests on the ground surface and no holes are dug to house the base. The pool is designed to sustain the weight of pool water and maintain its structural integrity as a freestanding unit. Above ground pools have temporary and semi-permanent options if the permanent alternative is not preferred. The only limitation to an above ground pool is the size.

 

Semi Inground

Both inground and above ground pools have their pros and cons. The semi-inground pool brings the best of both worlds. The pool design has its base below the ground level but a significant part of the pool sticks out of the ground. The design has a unique aesthetic appeal and offers numerous options for decking and landscaping.

 

Unique installations

Pool installation is not short of creativity and unique options are available. Rooftop pools and balcony pools are a great option if you are planning to be creative with your living space. However, these pools are designed and constructed as part of the house to ensure good structural integrity. Floating pools also have a distinct design that offers a unique swimming experience.

 

Construction materials

Swimming pools vary in design materials. Options range from concrete to gunite. Vinyl, concrete and fibreglass are the most popular designs

 

Concrete pools

The pools owe their popularity to design versatility. Concrete pools can be customized to meet any design requirements. There is no limitation to the shape, depth or size. Moreover, they accommodate additional fittings like fountains and artificial waterfalls. However, concrete pools are expensive to build and maintain. Their construction also takes a long time and the swimming experience might not be worth the time and money.

 

Fibreglass pools

This is a prefabricated pool that is installed on a prepared site. The pool has high initial costs but the lifetime costs are extremely low. A fibreglass pool has a non-abrasive surface that makes for a great swimming experience. The fibreglass also has numerous finishes that allows owners to choose beautiful coloured pools. Aside from the high purchase costs, fibreglass pools have other drawbacks. Firstly, the design options are limited since the pool is prefabricated. Moreover, repairs do not match the original finish and this may reduce the aesthetic appeal.

 

Vinyl pools

Vinyl pools are built with plastic or metal frames and lined with vinyl. They are popular because of their low installation cost. The pool has a low maintenance cost and has unlimited design options. Moreover, the pool is smooth to touch and quick to install. Some of the cons of owning a vinyl pool include the maintenance cost, the overall lifetime cost and the susceptibility to algae growth. Nonetheless, vinyl pools are a great addition to any home.

 

Although pools come in different shapes, sizes and designs, they serve similar purposes. Therefore, select the pool that meets your preference and start enjoying the benefits.