Building a Safe and Stylish Inground Pool in Tiverton and Portsmouth RI Areas
The perfect time to plan a pool is now while the joys of backyard fun are still fresh in your mind. But before taking the plunge with a new inground swimming pool, be sure to plan out the logistics as well as the aesthetics. Here are our tips for building a safe and stylish inground pool in Tiverton and Portsmouth, RI, areas.
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Pools for Kids
Pools for kids often end up being small-scale water parks, with slides and other fun amenities. Kids probably won’t swim laps, but the most versatile shape for sports-minded kids is a rectangular pool with basketball hoops, a water polo net, and a deep end with a diving board or elevated platform.
Keep in mind how these features will grow with the family. If you don’t envision using an elaborate slide once the kids are grown and gone, consider a more temporary solution. Or, add features that will stand the test of time.
For example, a sheer drop waterfall spilling into the pool can be designed so the stream of water extends far enough over the pool so you can swim under it.
If your pool is large enough, a floating deck could become an island kingdom. And, it’s a place where adults can relax and sunbathe.
A pool area should always be fenced in to prevent kids from being near the water without adult supervision.
Pools for Adults
Unless you want to swim laps for fitness, a compact dipping pool or “cocktail pool” is big enough for casual swimming and cooling off, but also small enough to not sacrifice your entire backyard. Adding a pavilion with a bar and outdoor fireplace beside a dipping pool can transform the space into an inviting and sophisticated getaway.
Landscaping Around the Pool
Chlorinated water, reflected heat, increased humidity, and foot traffic can all damage plants. Avoid planting vegetation (or lawns) too close to the pool so that leaves and clippings don’t end up in the water and so that plants aren’t affected by pool chemicals. A three-foot buffer such as a paver pool deck, decorative boulders, or a teak walkway will keep your pool cleaner while still integrating it into the landscape.
A kidney-shaped pool invites natural landscaping that could include boulders and lush vegetation to give your pool the feel of a tropical getaway.
A linear pool lined on one side with cedars can make the space feel distinctly luxurious and spa-like.
Martha Washington Geraniums, Arborvitae, Hydrangea, Hibiscus, Daylily, Yarrow, Roses, Yucca, and Ice Plant make great poolside additions. You can use tropical plants, but they will need to be in containers and overwintered indoors (a small heated greenhouse tucked in the corner of the yard will do the trick).
Pool Decks
The most common materials for stylish pool decks are concrete pavers. Many are made to resemble natural stone, although there are many choices that have their own character and don’t mimic the look of any other material.
Choose pavers with a non-slip surface. This doesn’t mean they have to be heavily textured. Even smooth pavers can have a subtle pebbling that is comfortable on bare feet, swimsuit-friendly (no snagging), and non-slip when wet.
Look for pavers that come pre-sealed to avoid damage from pool chemicals and food/beverage spills.
An Adjacent Spa
For kids of all ages, a spa adjacent to the pool is the finishing touch. Keeping a spa and pool together extends the use of your pool deck throughout the year, long after the pool has been drained and covered.