Decades back, only hotels, resorts, and the residences of the wealthy could afford to have amenities like swimming pools. Swimming pools have become a standard fixture in residential yards and apartments. That's because people are learning to appreciate them for what they can do: provide a means of physical activity, hydrotherapy, convenience, and relaxation. In addition to their practical value, swimming pools are frequently praised for their substantial improvements to the visual appeal of residential properties. Incorporating a body of water into the design of your home makes it feel more inviting and comfortable. If done right, it could entice curious onlookers to your property so they can take a peek inside and admire your home's splendor. Read on to find more information concerning swimming pools.
Types of Swimming Pools
Here are 4 of the best types of swimming pools:
- Above-Ground Pools - Above-ground pools, typically the least expensive choice, are installed on the ground's surface, usually with a terrace or patio encircling them. Above-ground pools typically feature vinyl liners, aluminum, resin, or steel exteriors with patterned walls.
- In-Ground Pools - An in-ground pool is a permanent facility that is dug into the ground. Several kinds are available, but the most typical ones are concrete, fiberglass, and vinyl liners. You and your builder can collaborate on the type of construction to use. Material selection is often based on a material's strength and malleability.
- Infinity Pools - Infinity pools have a single or more wall with an edge style that extends beneath the pool's water level and are often built to showcase a particular viewpoint. To give the impression that the water is limitless, it can pour over the wall in this way. Infinity pools are ideal for sites with a dramatic drop-off, and they commonly have panoramic views of the ocean, lake, or mountains. Because of the complexity of its construction, infinity pools can be exceedingly expensive to construct and keep up with.
- Lap Pools - A lap pool is an excellent choice if your primary motivation for getting a pool is to improve your fitness. This specific kind of in-ground pool is made to accommodate swimmers doing laps. Thus, it's usually a long and thin rectangle.Lap pools are perfect for urban apartments because of their modest footprint. Most pools provide at least 40 feet of uninterrupted swimming space to reduce the number of turns made during lap swimming. A lap pool's width can be as little as 8 feet if one swimmer only uses it at a time.
Swimming Pool Maintenance
Maintaining your pool is essential if you care about keeping it clean and safe for swimmers. Keeping your pool this clear won't take much effort, allowing you to get back to relaxing. Consider the three C's of pool maintenance: circulation, cleaning, and chemistry.
- Circulation - Keep the pool's pump on for 8-12 hours a day. If the pressure in your system is more than 10-15 psi, you should backwash or clean your filter. Disinfect the pump filter and wash the skimmer. Make sure the jets are pointing down and in a circular pattern.
- Cleaning - Brush the walls, the steps, the ladders, and the low-traffic areas every day. Always skim the surface. Clean the carpets weekly or use an automatic cleaner.
- Chemistry - Do water quality tests once or twice weekly. pH and alkalinity must be maintained in equilibrium. Care for the disinfectant supply. Regular shock every other week
Keep your pool in pristine condition, keep it moving and filtered, remove any debris or "dead areas," and keep the water chemistry in check.
Costs of Buying and Maintaining a Pool
Opening or closing a pool might cost anything from $300 to $500. Unavoidable expenses arise from regular pool upkeep. The maintenance cost will vary based on factors such as the pool's size, material, and frequency of service.
An annual budget of $1,200-$1,800 is reasonable for standard repairs and consumables. Additional costs of $3,000-$5,000 annually may be incurred for utilities and maintenance. Homeowners should expect to pay an additional $300 monthly for energy and $20 to $60 monthly for water. There are simple and easy ways to cut monthly costs, such as installing a variable speed pump and lowering the temperature.