Pools provide a focal point for summer fun. They bring the whole family together across generations, from grandparents to grandkids. Pools can also increase the value of your house with the right buyer.
Types Of Pools
The three most common pools are liner pools, gunite/shotcrete pools, and fiberglass pools.
Liner Pools
Liner pools are usually the least expensive in-ground pools. The liner is manufactured to your specifications, so can be tailored to your wishes. The vinyl liner is smooth, so it won’t stub the toe of your child. In addition, the smoothness makes it harder for algae to grow on the sides.
Vinyl liners only last about seven to ten years before they need to be replaced. While not as costly as the initial installation, replacing the liner is not cheap. If you have pets and children playing in and around the pool, you may want to choose another option. It is relatively easy to pierce the liner, which means the water leaks out. The liner warranty is typically prorated over twenty years, so accidents can be costly. Finally, vinyl pools may lower the house’s resale value relative to the other choices. Buyers often ask that the liner be replaced by the seller before closing.
Current Pool Project by the Blue Crew
Gunite/Shotcrete Pools
These pools last a long time and are totally customizable. You can build in sun tanning ledges, benches, seats, and other custom features. You can also make the pool any color you want, from bright blue to white or even black, for more of a lagoon look. The potential features are limited only by your imagination and your pocketbook.
Gunite/Shotcrete pools are more expensive than other options. They also take longer to build, usually three to six months. These pools may need to be resurfaced every ten to fifteen years, which is also expensive. The sides can be harder to keep clean and may require more pool chemicals to keep the algae down.
Fiberglass Pools
Fiberglass pools are cast off site and then brought in and installed. They are very durable and last a long time as long as you maintain the pool water chemistry according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Most fiberglass pools come with features such as tanning ledges, benches, and seats. The fiberglass has a gel coating over it that is not abrasive and also retards algae. Fiberglass pools are relatively quick to install, so you can get in the water sooner.
Fiberglass pools do have some downsides. They are cast in large molds, so you won’t be able to customize the design. For the same reason, they can’t be wider than sixteen feet because of shipping regulations. Fiberglass pools are more expensive up front compared to liner pools and about the same as concrete pools.
Current Pool Project by the Blue Crew
Shipping Containers
A relatively new type of pool is one made from shipping containers. We have put these in for customers who have been very happy with them. Modpools are customizable with the same features as other pools. However, Modpools can be installed in sloped areas that a traditional pool won’t fit in. We can build a deck and landscape around it and set it in the ground for you and manage the entire project.
Fun Pool Additions
One of the advantages of having your pool designed by an architectural landscape firm is that the pool will be integrated into the landscape in a comprehensive way. A pool isn’t just a hole in the ground, it is a part of the landscape. Here are some fun additions we have designed and built for our customers.
Sun Ledges
If you want to sit by the pool and get some sun, we can integrate a sun ledge into your pool. You can sun in a shallow 6” – 12” of water for a while, then take a deep in the deep end to cool off. Repeat as desired😊
Fountains, Waterfalls, and Fire/Water Bowl Features
Pools can have other water features built in them such as fountains and waterfalls. Water or fire bowl features are striking at night for those evening parties. We even built one pool with a grotto waterfall you could swim under.
Schedule A Consultation
As the temperatures continue to creep upward, a pool sounds better and better. Royal Creations Architectural Landscaping can design a pool that is integrated into your landscape and customized just the way you want it. Schedule a consultation now to get that pool started.
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