The art of relaxation varies from person to person, but for many homeowners, there’s no better way to unwind than by lounging in their very own private pool at home. Building a pool at home is not only an indulgence but also an investment that can add value to your property and improve your lifestyle.

However, with the myriad of choices out there, it can be hard to decide which suits you best. Let’s guide you through the different types of pools you can consider building at home and help you make an informed decision on your aquatic retreat.

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Lap pools

Lap pools are an ideal choice for those looking to stay in shape while saving money and time on maintenance. These pools are typically rectangular in shape and range from 8 feet to 25 feet in length.

They are built to be used for swimming laps and can be installed in-ground or above ground. Lap pools are usually 4 to 8 feet deep and can be cheaper than other types of pools due to their small size.

With a lap pool, you can swim long distances and enjoy a great workout from the comfort of your own home.

Pros of lap pools

The advantage of lap pools is that they are perfect for fitness enthusiasts. They require less maintenance and upkeep and can be heated year-round in colder climates, making them a great option for all types of climates.

Lap pools are relatively long and narrow, designed for swimming laps, providing a built-in workout space at your home. They don’t take up as much space as traditional pools, making them an ideal choice for smaller yards.

These pools can be heated easily, allowing for year-round use, regardless of the season. Being relatively shallow, they also consume less water and chemicals, making them eco-friendly and cost-effective.

Cons of lap pools

One of the main cons of lap pools is their lack of versatility. Because they’re designed for swimming laps, they don’t provide the space for leisurely lounging or playing pool games.

They are also generally longer and narrower, which means they require a significant amount of space in your yard. Lap pools can also be more expensive due to their size and the need for a pool heater, especially if you want to use your pool year-round.

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Approximate cost of a lap pool in the UK

The price tag typically starts around £20,000 for a basic model to upwards of £100,000 for a more luxurious design with added amenities. Given this significant investment, it’s crucial to thoroughly research and plan, considering the size of your backyard, the pool’s maintenance costs, and your lifestyle needs.

More so, consulting with an experienced pool contractor can help streamline the process, ensuring you get the most out of your investment.

Infinity pools

Infinity pools are a great way to add a touch of elegance and luxury to your home. Also known as negative edge pools, these pools provide an uninterrupted view of the surrounding landscape with one side of the pool having no edge, allowing the water to flow over the side and down into a catch basin.

Infinity pools are more expensive and require more maintenance than traditional designs, but the stunning effect of the water’s edge blending into the horizon is worth the extra effort.

Infinity pools can be built in a variety of shapes and sizes, so no matter what your backyard looks like, you can find a design that will fit the space perfectly. With the addition of an infinity edge to any pool design, you can create a spectacular view that will make your backyard the envy of the neighborhood.

Pros of infinity pools

One of the striking advantages of infinity pools is their unmatched aesthetic appeal. Perfect for homes with scenic views, these pools create a visual illusion of water extending into the horizon, thus adding elegance and sophistication to your home. An infinity pool will give your property top-shelf curb appeal. It has the potential to significantly boost the real estate value of your property.

Moreover, infinity pools offer a serene and therapeutic environment, ideal for relaxation and mental stress relief.

Cons of infinity pools

These pools are generally more expensive compared to traditional inground pools due to their complex construction process.

Given their high-end design and function, infinity pools attract higher maintenance and construction costs compared to conventional pools. They require an intricate filtration system and constant water supply to maintain the visual effect.

An infinity pool also generally needs frequent professional maintenance to prevent structural damage.

While the infinity edge brings a stunning aesthetic value, it may not be safe for homes with young children.

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Approximate cost of an infinity pool in the UK

This luxurious pool type may come with a significant price tag, but it provides an unrivalled aesthetic appeal and an illusion of infinite space. The average cost of installing an infinity pool in the UK can vary, depending on size and design intricacies, but generally ranges from £60,000 – £100,000.

Natural pools

Natural pools are becoming an increasingly popular choice for homeowners looking to create a unique and eco-friendly pool at home. Natural swimming pools offer a great way to connect with nature and enjoy a refreshing swim in a natural environment.

The construction of a natural pool involves a balance between open water and a planted zone, which uses natural plants to purify the water rather than harsh chemicals. Natural pools are designed to be as natural as possible, with rocks, plants, and other natural elements that create a serene atmosphere.

Pros of natural pools

These pools mimic the self-cleaning process of a freshwater source, like a river, using plants and microbes to filter the water instead of harsh chemicals. This natural approach not only makes them eco-friendly but can also transform your pool into a vibrant ecosystem full of aquatic life.

Unlike other types of pools, natural pools are low maintenance and require minimal effort to keep clean. They offer a unique and beautiful environment that will be sure to impress your friends and family.

Furthermore, they can blend seamlessly into your garden landscape and require less maintenance compared to traditional pools.

Cons of natural pools

The biggest drawback is the need for a larger space to accommodate both the swimming area and the regeneration zone, which often requires twice the space of the swimming area.

Plus, they can also be costly to build due to the specific materials and complex installation process involved and complex ecosystem design. Added to this, is the requirement for specialized contractors proficient in creating this unique type of pool.

Maintenance could also become a challenge. Unlike conventional pools, the balance of flora and fauna in natural pools must be carefully monitored and maintained to ensure water cleanliness which can translate into more time and effort.

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Approximate cost of a natural pool in the UK

The cost can vary widely depending on factors such as size, design, landscaping, and additional features like a waterfall or a deck area.

On average, the approximate cost of a natural pool in the UK starts from around £20,000 and can go up to over £150,000.

Plunge pools

For those with limited space, a plunge pool is a great option for a refreshing pool that is quick and easy to install. Plunge pools are typically no deeper than 4ft, making them ideal for shallow-water activities like lounging, wading, or simply cooling off during the summer months.

Plunge pools can be installed above-ground in a variety of areas such as small backyards, patios, and balconies. They come in a variety of materials ranging from fiberglass, concrete, and vinyl, which makes them relatively easy to maintain.

Plus, plunge pools are a great way to enjoy a refreshing pool in a limited space.

Pros of plunge pools.

Pros of plunge pools

Plunge pools are an excellent option if space or budget constraints are a concern. Unlike traditional pools which take up considerable space, plunge pools are compact and perfect for smaller yards. This size also makes them more energy-efficient, requiring less water and fewer chemicals.

With a plunge pool, maintenance becomes a breeze. Economically, they are appealing as they have a smaller upfront cost than the traditional pools.

The real charm of a plunge pool comes from its luxury and aesthetic appeal. Not to forget, they are great for exercising, providing a perfect deep-water environment for an invigorating low-impact workout.

Cons of plunge pools

They’re typically quite shallow, which might not be ideal for individuals who enjoy swimming laps or need a deep pool for other activities. The smaller size can also be limiting if you like to host social events with many guests.

Installing a heating system might also be necessary if you’d like to use the plunge pool year-round in colder climates. This can substantially increase the cost, both in terms of upfront installation fees and long-term energy usage.

Approximate cost of a plunge pool in the UK

Once again, it all boils down to design, size, and the materials used. On average, the cost ranges from £8,000 to £25,000. This includes the pool construction, filtration system, water heater, lighting, and finishing touches such as tiles and landscaping.

You may need to consider additional costs like routine maintenance and additional features like a jet system or a saltwater system.

Spool pools

If you’re looking for a way to fit a pool into a small backyard, a spool pool might be the perfect choice. Spool pools are usually semi-circular or kidney-shaped and tend to be smaller than traditional rectangle pools.

These pools are great for relaxing and lounging around, and they are also great for swimming laps.

Pros of spool pools

Spool pools are relatively easy to install, making them popular with DIYers. It provides the benefits of both a spa and a pool while fitting into a smaller space and budget.

They are usually less expensive than traditional pools, and they can be constructed in a matter of days.

Spool pools can be made from a variety of materials, including concrete and fiberglass.

Cons of spool pools

The most notable disadvantage is the limited size. Given their compact dimensions, these pools may not be suitable for large families or those who love throwing lavish pool parties.

They’re also not the ideal option if you’re interested in swimming laps for exercise. The installation cost can be surprisingly high as well, considering their small size. The utilization of luxury features, such as jet systems and heated functions, further inflate this cost.

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Approximate cost of a spool pool in the UK

The cost of a spool pool in the UK can vary greatly depending on the features you wish to incorporate. On average, you might expect to spend between £15,000 to £35,000. This price includes installation costs, but more luxurious add-ons like waterfalls or heating systems can increase the total cost.

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