subject: Concrete Swim Pools: Advantages and Features [print this page] Concrete Swim Pools: Advantages and Features
If you have decided to incorporate a swimming pool into your property, there are several factors to be considered before finalizing the design concept. One of the main decisions to be made is regarding the construction material - should you build concrete pools or install vinyl pools?
Let us compare a pool with a vinyl liner to one made of concrete (gunite). Each has its pros and cons. The vinyl lined pool is considerably less expensive - expect to save as much as USD 15K to USD 20K on it. If cost is a large concern, go in for vinyl. New advances in technology have meant that vinyl lined pools look good and last much longer than they have in the past.
This being said, gunite or concrete pools have several exclusive features and advantages:
Customized pools shapes: You can create any kind of pool shape if you are building a concrete pool. This means that you can let your imagination run riot as long as budget is not a concern.
Steps can be inset into the pool instead of being set into the exterior paved area: When the steps are exterior, they tend to intrude into the overall shape and design. When they are set into the interior, you have the additional advantage of gaining deck space.
An improved aesthetic element: For instance, you can incorporate a waterfall over a back wall, also called the retaining wall, at a higher level at one end. When this is coupled with garden plants, it creates a classy look.
Color and pattern coordination of different tiling materials: Tiles can be used in three areas the interior of the pool, the paved area surrounding the pool, and the pool walls under the coping. In concrete pools, you'll have a huge number of possible combinations to create your very own unique pattern and color scheme.
The vanishing edge: Imagine the dramatic impact of a pool inset into a raised area with the ground dropping away behind it - yes, it's possible to create when you build a gunite pool.
Here are some additional points to mull over if you have decided on a concrete pool:
Placement of the pool: Would you like it near the house or away from it? Think about considerations of access as well as aesthetics.
What shape should you choose: Regular, geometric, flowing or natural lines - choose according to your taste and space available.
What kind of paving material should you choose: There are countless options out there, but checking how cool the tiles would be underfoot in summer may help you decide on the best one.
What size should your pool be: Concrete pool sizes can vary from small to as large as you like. This decision will depend on your budget and space available.
Should you consider hiring a landscape artist: The landscape designer will take into consideration your property's contours, size, shape, and a myriad of other factors. If your budget is not too tight, it is generally a good idea to talk to a concrete pools landscape artist to help you create an aesthetic pool.
