Swimming Pool Chemicals
Swimming pools help add value to property, and are wonderful assets to houses, resorts and hotels. Various types of swimming pools are available, such as above-ground, in-ground, and portable. Each type has its own pros and cons…
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. Several types of swimming pools are available to suit different needs. Pools above ground level, below ground level, as well as the portable type, are available in the market. Depending on the money, space availability, time and convenience, one can choose the type of swimming pool to be installed.
Swimming Pool Types
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 come in three basic shapes: rectangular, round and oval. 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. Most of the above ground-pools can be constructed using pre-fabricated kits. Thus, any amateur can also have the swimming pool assembled without hiring a contractor. Above-ground swimming pools require a flat and level surface, and also require access to electricity and water supply. However, they do have their share of cons as well. These pools may be less expensive, but they do not last long and also lack the aesthetic appeal 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.
In-Ground Swimming Pools
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 length, depth and width of the pool as one desires. This facility is not available in other pool types. Moreover, the presence of an in-ground swimming pool increases the value of the property. Maintenance costs for this type are more than for the other types. There are 4 types of in-ground swimming pool 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.
Fiberglass Pools: These pools have lower maintenance costs, as compared to the vinyl type. They are installed only by professional swimming pool installers, who bring the fiberglass swimming pool shell home. The pool body is constructed as a single piece of fiberglass, and lowered into the space dug out for its installation. Concrete deck structures are built around the fiberglass pool.
Poured Concrete Swimming Pools: This type of swimming pool involves the pouring of concrete into wooden frames for its construction. This type enables the customers to choose their pool layouts, which is why they were known as the best type of in-ground pools available. However, the installation of this type is very difficult and time consuming.
Gunite Pools: These pools are installed by creating a ‘steel reinforcing rod framework’ called as ‘rebar rods’. This framework of steel rods is built within the space dug out for the pool. The framework is then sprayed with a heavy gunite (a mixture of cement & sand mixed with water) coating, smoothened and left for a week. After a week, plaster is added to give it a smooth finish. These pools can be designed as per requirement, and last longer than other types. This type is more convenient as compared to the concrete type, and has thus gained a lot of popularity. Gunite pools are the number one choice in the United States.
Portable Swimming Pools
The most inexpensive way of having a swimming pool is opting for portable swimming pools. These pools are also known as ‘baby or kiddie pools’ and, as the name suggests, can be filled, drained and taken to any location in the backyard as desired. These pools are smaller in size and can be drained and filled easily. They are easy to assemble and do not require any contractor for installation, thereby saving installation charges. Once the pool liner is spread on level ground and the top ring inflated, water can be filled into it. The pool is ready! These pools can also be stored conveniently in a garage or basement.
Before installing a swimming pool, the type of swimming pool must be determined. If durability and aesthetic appeal is not a concern, then one can opt for above-ground swimming pools, as they are cheap and can be easily installed as well. Swimming pool accessories and swimming pool cleaning tips will help maintain the pool. If durability is a concern, then one can opt for the gunite in-ground type of swimming pool.
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