A swimming pool is more than a structural fitting; it’s an expression of the owner’s taste and personality. As a result, swimming pools come in an array of shapes and sizes. Here is a guide on choosing a pool according to your personality.
Inground vs above-ground
Swimming pool designs fall into two main categories; in-ground and above-ground.
Inground pools
As the name suggests, inground pools are buried structures. The pools have a robust construction to withstand the pressure exerted by the earth. Moreover, inground pools are grand installations and require a lot of professional input to design and build.
Inground pools are permanent; therefore, they are designed for owners looking at permanent settlement.
Above ground pools
This pool style is installed above the ground level and usually has a simple design. Moreover, most above-ground pool installations are temporary and have limited size options. They are great for small parties and seasonal use. The pool is ideal for owners on temporary or rental settlements.
Semi-inground pools
The semi-inground pool option has the unique design of an above-ground pool and the sturdy structure of an inground pool. The design offers room for creative fittings, especially on the portion that lies above ground level.
Concrete, vinyl and fibreglass
Swimming pools also differ in material design. Although there are several options for construction material, most pools fall into three categories; concrete, fibreglass and vinyl. Each option attracts different personalities and has its pros and cons.
Fibreglass
Fibreglass is a unique material designed from plastic reinforced with glass fibre. The final product is a sturdy, low-maintenance building material ideal for a swimming pool.
Fibreglass pools are precast and delivered on-site for installation. The pool has a smooth feel that offers a great swimming experience.
Unfortunately, since the pool is precasted, design options are limited. Moreover, large designs are expensive to build and install. Nonetheless, the pool is an excellent choice for someone who wants a beautiful, simple design with an exceptional swimming experience.
Vinyl
This is one of the most popular swimming pool designs worldwide. It’s affordable, versatile and easy to construct.
Installation involves laying vinyl across the pool’s wall to form the pool basin. There is no limit to size, shape or liner pattern; it all boils down to your imagination and budget. Additionally, the pool offers durability and low maintenance costs.
The pool is ideal for homeowners with irregular backyards since it can be customised to fit virtually anywhere. Moreover, you can convert your pre-existing concrete pool into a vinyl pool to enjoy the benefits.
Concrete
A concreted pool is an expensive option, but the investment has its rewards. The pool is versatile; there is no limitation on the shape, size or depth. Moreover, the pool welcomes an array of fittings, from jacuzzi installations, fountains and pool bars to underwater lighting and waterfalls.
Aside from the cost, another setback to owning a concrete pool is the poor swimming experience. Most concrete builds have rough surfaces and sharp edges which can scratch a swimmer. Moreover, the pool has high maintenance costs. Nonetheless, concrete pools are an ideal choice for lavish owners and creative designers.
Unique designs
Some special mentions are reserved for owners looking to defy the norms. These pool designs include:
Rooftop pools
This unique installation offers great views and allows the construction of an infinity edge (a design that creates the illusion of the pool water falling into the horizon). Most rooftop pools are designed from concrete, but the installation welcomes vinyl and fibreglass options.
Shipping container pools
Shipping containers are trendy in construction at the moment. Their application has extended to swimming pools, resulting in unique above-ground designs. Most designs use the shipping container shell to hold a fibreglass basin.
Transparent pools
This type of pool is excellent for rooftop installations where a transparent unit is used on the swimming pool sidewall or floor.
There is no limit to unique swimming pool designs available to owners. If you want to choose the right swimming pool, you only need to match your options with your personality.
