One of the greatest advantages of being a homeowner is not only to own a piece of property but to have the freedom to decide the use of the property. When it comes to backyard fun and relaxation a swimming pool is a popular option. There are many different types, styles, and designs of pools to choose from depending on yard size, budget, and intended use. Whether the pool will be used primarily to keep the kids entertained, stay physically fit or relax and cool off on a hot summer day, there is a pool for every need.
Family recreational pools
Any family can benefit from having a backyard inground pool for summer fun and relaxation. Once all the safety considerations are attended to the only thing left is to have some backyard summertime fun. Although simply having a pool can provide many hours of recreation, kids naturally look for ways to enhance the enjoyment. One way to increase the entertainment options is to add features to the existing pool. Lisa Hallett Taylor writing for thespruce.com, “Awe-inspiring water features, elaborate slides, caves, tunnels, boulders, and a general for-all-ages appeal is what recreational pools are all about.” Water sports equipment can provide athletic options like basketball and volleyball as well.
Plunge pool
Plunge pools are small pools similar in size to a hot tub; however, the water is kept very cold. Some athletes like to immerse themselves in the cold water to cool off after a good workout. Lisa Hallett Taylor writing for thespruce.com, “Plunge pools can be separate or attached to a larger in-ground pool. They can look like a spa—but one cautious foot in the pool will reveal otherwise.” Plunge pools are deep but not very wide so swimming isn’t an option, but they’re perfect for lounging or for cooling off on a hot day.
Spool
Unlike a plunge pool, a spool, a combination of spa and pool, can be used for swimming even though it’s much smaller than an average swimming pool. A spool has jets like a spa that allow the water temperature to be adjusted from cold to hot. Lisa Hallett Taylor writing for thespruce.com, “Measuring approximately 10 to 16 feet long and 6 to 8 feet wide, a spool is obviously much smaller than an in-ground swimming pool, but at least twice the length of the average spa.” Also called a cocktail pool, a spool is great for small social gatherings.
Infinity pool
An infinity pool is built with one or more edges below the water level so it gives the illusion of pool water flowing over the edge into infinity. However, the water is actually flowing into a separate container where the water is pumped back into the pool. In order to achieve the best visual effect, the surrounding landscape should be compatible with the design of the pool. For example, the edgeless side of the pool facing the ocean, a forest, or the open sky gives the illusion that the water flow meets with the ocean below, the sky above, or flows off an elevation into the treetops below.
Lap pool
A lap pool is long, narrow, and rectangular in shape. With no deep end, there’s no opportunity for diving but every opportunity for swimming. Its main purpose is to provide the perfect place for swimming laps Elizabeth Heath writing for familyhandyman.com says, “Lap pools are long and narrow and typically the same depth throughout—deep enough to allow average-sized adults to swim and do laps without kicking the pool bottom.” Swimming laps in the privacy of your own backyard gives a homeowner a great place for working out and cooling off in the same space.
A swimming pool can be a great addition to backyard summer recreation. Private workouts, family fun, and evening cocktails with friends can all be enjoyed in a new pool.
Originally published by The Day.
