Which type of pool is right for your home?
Are you interested in having a pool constructed for your home? Swimming pools are becoming more popular across the UK and now could be the perfect time to have one installed. But you will be faced with a huge range of options on the types of pool available – so how do you know which one is right for you? Here we take a look at some of the major details of swimming pools to help you to make the decision.
Concrete, fibreglass or ceramic?
One of the major questions when you come to ask about your pool is what kind material it is going to be constructed from. There are three key options that you need to consider: concrete, fibreglass and ceramic composite.
- Concrete – these pools come with the advantage that they can be designed and build into any shape, offering you excellent flexibility and a full range of possible features. The design can be completely tailored to your specifications. However, there are some drawbacks in the fact that the cost of the build is likely to be far higher, and the work will take much longer.
- Fibreglass – traditionally seen as a more affordable and simpler alternative to concrete pools, fibreglass pools are made in one piece and can then be craned into an excavated hole, making the whole task much easier. However, fibreglass limits you on the shape and design of the pool.
- Ceramic – ceramic composite pools provide something of a hybrid. They are one-piece pools, like fibreglass, meaning they have far easier insulation, but they are also far more durable and long-lasting. As they are non-porous these pools also have the advantage that they require less chemicals to keep clean, and therefore have lower running costs.
Are you working with limited space?
It is also important to consider the amount of space that you are working with. Sometimes homeowners with relatively little space worry that they cannot have the sort of swimming pool that they dream of. However, this doesn’t have to be the case. If you only have a small amount of space available you can have a plunge pool installed.
It is even possible to have waterjets placed in your plunge pool. These can act like a current in the pool which you can swim against – this allows you to have a satisfying swimming experience with only a small pool size available. So if you have wanted to get a pool for the fitness benefits, this is still possible with a small space.
Are you worried about chemicals?
If you are most interested in a pool that is eco-friendly you might be interested in a natural pool. These pools make use of reed bed technology to naturally filter the water, so there is no need to use chemicals in the water. Of course, one of the major benefits is that you aren’t using these chemicals in your pool – therefore the water is gentler on sensitive skin. It is also much better for the environment.
Natural pools are increasingly growing in popularity, and as the technology has advanced they have become more affordable. Of course, this will mean working with a specialist pool constructor in order to handle the more complicated process of having a natural pool installed.
What shape is right for your home?
You also need to consider the sort of shape that you are looking for from your pool. The classic shape is a simple rectangle, but if you are working with an unusual size and shape of land, it may be necessary to get creative with the pool. Alternatively, you may simply be interested in a unique pool design as an eye-catching feature for your property.
In any case you might be surprised by the variety of pool sizes and shapes on offer. Even with fibreglass or ceramic composite pools you can select from a range of options to find something that suits your home. So, if you need a less conventional shape, do not despair!
The right type of pool for your home is inevitably the one that you will use and make the most of. This is very much a personal choice and comes down to your judgement. Speak with your family and consider your habits and what you are looking for from your pool – this can help you make the best decision.