Swimming Pool Ideas

Swimming pools are the best way to beat the scorching summer heat. Everybody loves to plunge into the cool water and relax away! For those who love swimming, enjoying the benefits of a swimming pool in the backyard is not far-fetched. Moreover, places where the temperatures are really high in summer, such pools are a necessity.

Several types of swimming pools are available to suit different needs. Pools above ground level, below ground level, as well as the portable types, are available in the market. Depending on one's budget, space availability, time and convenience, one can choose the type of swimming pool to be installed.

Above-ground Swimming Pools
This type comprises swimming pools that are installed above ground level. It is the cheapest option among the swimming pool types. These pools come in variety of sizes, with models ranging from 10 ft to over 30 ft in diameter. They are beneficial when one does not wish to dig up the backyard and install an in-ground swimming pool. Moreover, above-ground pools are cheaper as compared to in-ground pools, and also take lesser time to install. Above-ground pools can also be dismantled and taken to one's new home, as in case of relocation.

Most of the above ground-pools can be constructed using pre-fabricated kits. Thus, an amateur can also have the swimming pool assembled on his or her own, thereby saving the expenses of hiring a contractor. Above-ground swimming pools require flat and level surface, and also require access to electricity and water supply. These pools do have their share of cons as well. They may be less expensive, but they do not last long and also lack aesthetic appeal that the in-ground type has. Above-ground pools comprise two types of pools: soft-sided pools and hard-sided pools. The soft-sided pools are constructed from rubber or latex. Hard-sided pools are constructed using metals and fiberglass, which makes them more durable and expensive.

If you are skeptical about the look of the pool, then there's no need to worry! You can build a pool deck (the same height as the pool) around the pool and make it look like an in-ground swimming pool. You can also attach fences to the walls of the pool, to prevent children from falling over. Some decks are built in such ways that people are unable to believe they are not in-ground pools. Landscaping can also be done to enhance the overall look!

In-ground swimming pools are not only the most popular, but also, the most expensive type of swimming pools available. People who are not tight on budgets and space, opt for these pools. As the name suggests, these pools are built into the ground (below ground level). The advantage of opting for this pool type is that the size of the pool can be endless. One can choose the shape, length, depth and width of the pool as one desires. This facility is not available in other pool types. They also last longer than above-ground pools. Moreover, the presence of an in-ground swimming pool increases the value of the property. Maintenance costs for these pools are more, as compared to other types. There are 4 types of in-ground swimming pools available:

Vinyl-Lined In-Ground Pools
The most commonly used type of in-ground pools is the vinyl-lined type. In this type, soil is dug out, a frame is constructed for the pool, and sand is placed at the bottom. Metal, wood or plastic walls are constructed, which are then lined with a vinyl liner. These pools are relatively cheaper, however, do not last long. The vinyl lining has to be replaced once in every ten years.