Swimming in Comfort
Swimming has been a longtime American pastime. Part of the reason is accessibility: whether you live near a lake, a river, or an ocean, taking a refreshing dip in a body of water is often readily available.
And then there is the swimming pool, the oasis of the backyard. For decades, there were two options: an above-ground pool or an in-ground pool. But so much has changed since then.
Today, over ten million American homes reportedly have swimming pools. Plus, more than ever, the options seem limitless. But how can you determine what type of pool would work best for your yard? Read on to discover enticing new options in the swimming-pool landscape.
Stock Tank Pool
Let’s start with perhaps the coziest pool out there, the stock tank. These pools—which were hot options the past few summers—are also known as country pools since they were originally used for feeding livestock. As it turns out, they make for convenient pools as well; they’re super easy to add to your yard and maintain, and they only cost upward of a few hundred dollars. That can allow you to spend a little more on a pump if you want to make cleaning effortless.
Stock Tank Pool Tips: Keep in mind that they are usually metal, which means they will absorb the sun’s summer rays. Try to ensure that they’re placed in a shady area.
Modpool
Also in the realm of repurposing are Modpools. Made of upcycled shipping containers, these pools boast customization: they can be made for above-ground or in-ground layouts, and they are made specifically for the size of your backyard—so they can often be used the same day they are installed. And because they are literally modular pools, you can bring yours with you if you move.
Modpool Tips: Your Modpool can include smart controls, so you can remotely adjust things like the water temperature. For setup, you’ll need to do some preparation, such as prepping your yard’s landscape for delivery and setting up the electrical and gas connections.
Saltwater Pool
Love the feel of the ocean but not the drive to get there? You can bring the experience to you with a saltwater pool. This trendy option, which uses a converter to turn salt into a less harsh form of chlorine, can be a part of a new pool, or you can convert your existing chlorinated pool to saltwater. But the experience won’t be exactly like traditional saltwater—and that’s a good thing, as the strong salty smell, taste, and feeling aren’t present. In fact, many consider the water to feel cleaner than traditional pool water.
Saltwater Pool Tips: Such pools require a fair amount of maintenance, upkeep costs, and space for your salt supply. Also, because salt is naturally corrosive, you need to be cautious with it if your pool or its accessories contain metal.
Infinity Pool
Finally, another popular pool option is infinity pools. These ultra-sleek oases can often be found as hotel amenities, but they can also be added to private residences that have a yard with different elevations. Boasting a seemingly edgeless pool that gives the illusion of disappearing (hence the name), this type provides an extra sense of tranquility, style, and luxury.
Infinity Pool Tips: Above all, know that they do have an edge where the water disappears; the water merely flows over a clear, coping-free end. Also, infinity pools tend to be pricey, costing around $80,000 on average, though prices vary by size and location.
Whether you opt for tried-and-true standards like an above-ground style or dip your toe in the water with one of these more recent versions, having a pool in your yard is sure to add comfort and foster memories for years to come.