Approximately 16 percent of homes in the United States have a pool.
Are you considering joining this group and investing in a swimming pool for your home? Did you know that there are different types of swimming pools for you to choose from?
Before you invest in a pool, it’s important to understand the basics and make sure you’re prepared for the responsibility that comes with having one.
Read on to learn more about the different types of pools. You’ll also learn some other things to keep in mind when you’re looking for a pool to upgrade your home.
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Types of Swimming Pools
There are actually seven different types of swimming pools. The following seven are some of the most popular options to consider:
1. Above Ground Pools
As the name suggests, an above ground pool sits above the ground in your backyard.
Above ground pools allow homeowners to enjoy the benefits of a pool in a more portable, less costly way. They’re easier to install when you’re dealing with rocky land that might not accommodate an in-ground pool.
2. Recreational Swimming Pools
Recreational pools are all about fun.
If you have a big family that loves pool parties, or if you want your kids to grow up spending time in the water, a recreational pool is a great option.
Recreational pools include fun features like slides, tunnels, and water features. It’s almost like building a mini water park in your backyard.
3. Plunge Pools
If you want your pool to be fun and functional, you might want to consider a plunge pool. Plunge pools are small, cold-water pools. Plunging yourself into cold water comes with a variety of therapeutic benefits.
You can reap those benefits from the comfort of your own home if you invest in a plunge pool — just make sure your friends know what they’re getting into before they dive in!
4. Infinity Pools
An infinity pool is a custom-built pool designed to highlight a great view.
When they’re done well, infinity pools create the illusion of water dropping right over the edge of your property like a waterfall.
If you live on a mountainside and want to show off the stunning views in your backyard, an infinity pool is a great way to enhance the backyard.
They’re definitely more expensive than other types of pools, they’re absolutely worth the investment if you can afford it.
5. Lap Pools
Lap pools are usually long and narrow. Ideally, they’ll be at least 50 feet long.
For those who use swimming as their primary form of exercise, a lap pool can be a great investment.
Think about how much money you’ll save on gym memberships if you install a lap pool in your own backyard!
6. Spa Pool
If you’re more interested in relaxing and unwinding at the end of a long day than swimming laps, a spa pool is a great option to consider.
Spa pools are smaller and less expensive, so they’re good for folks who don’t have a lot of money to spend on a pool. They’re also good for those who have a small lot and don’t have space for a full-sized pool.
7. Natural Pools
If you want your pool to blend in with the scenery and look a little more rustic, a natural pool is a great option to consider.
Natural pools are self-cleaning pools that often include features like boulders and waterfalls.
They’re lined with reinforced polyethylene or rubber and have a separate regeneration zone that keeps the water clean with relying on harsh chemicals.
What to Consider When You Invest in a Pool
As you can see, there are several different types of pools you can choose from. The type of pool you invest in is only part of the story, though.
There are lots of other factors you need to take into account, including the following:
How Much Space Do You Have?
When you’re considering the right type of pool for you, think about how much space you have in your backyard.
Can you accommodate a lap pool? Or, do you need to stick with a smaller option, like an above ground or spa pool instead?
Where Will You Put It?
Where in your backyard will you put the pool?
Most people want their pool to be in an area that gets a lot of sunlight. That’s probably not ideal if you’re investing in a plunge pool, though.
Think about your specific needs and what you can do with the layout of your backyard before you make a final decision.
Will You Use Chemicals?
Are you comfortable using chemicals to keep your pool clean? If not, you’ll probably want to stick with a natural pool instead of a more traditional option.
How Will You Make Safety a Priority?
If you’re going to have children swimming in your pool, you’ll need to take steps to make safety a priority.
If there’s even a small chance that a child could find themselves near your pool, you need to consider installing a fence or gate around your pool to keep out anyone who doesn’t know how to swim.
How Much Maintenance Do You Want to Do?
Finally, be sure to think about the amount of maintenance you’re willing to do for your pool.
A big lap pool might sound great in theory, but do you really want to clean it on a regular basis? Do you want to have to keep track of a giant pool cover maintenance checklist?
If you’re not willing to do a ton of maintenance, a natural, self-cleaning pool or a spa pool might be a better fit for you.
Start Shopping for a Pool Today
Are you ready to invest in a swimming pool for your backyard? If so, be sure to consider this guide before you begin shopping.
If you keep this information in mind, you’ll have a much easier time sorting through all the different types of swimming pools and finding the option that is the best fit for you and your family.
Do you need more advice on upgrading your backyard? If so, we’ve got lots of resources available on our site.
Check out our Lifestyle section today for all kinds of helpful articles on pool design, backyard decor, and more.
