Different Styles of Swimming Pools
- An above-ground pool is monetarily at the lowest level of the swimming pool market, with minimal installation and maintenance costs. Above-ground pools typically range from 10 to 20 feet in diameter, and average 3 feet in depth. Prospective owners must have a level site large enough for the footprint of the pool, along with space for the filter pump. The pool sits on top of the soil, has a round or oval shape, and is available in portable or permanent models.
- Free-form pools are uniquely designed swimming pools, often shaped to a buyer's specific design or to fit into a specific landscape. This type of in-ground pool can range from very small to acres in size in some resorts. Free-form simply means that the pool, built from hand-made forms, allows for any shape and depth.
- Play pools are often found in hotels, city parks and water parks, and have a constant depth throughout the pool of 5 feet and under. These pools are designed for children and adults to relax, swim and play games, such as water-volleyball and basketball. Play pools, built in-ground, consist of either a concrete or fiberglass base with a liner.
- Diving pools are the common in-ground family pool with an oval or kidney shape. These pools have a deep, or diving, end commonly 8 feet or deeper. The deep end tapers toward the shallower opposite end, allowing for diving and jumping from a diving board. Sizes and designs vary greatly and installation consists of a plastic pool shell or concrete poured construction, each with a pool liner. Water filter and chemical releasing mechanisms allow for minimal maintenance.
- A lap pool is designed specifically to swim laps for exercise. They are routinely long and narrow in shape, with a depth of 3 to 4 feet. They can be installed indoors or outdoors and have minimal maintenance due to their size. Endless lap pools are a small lap pool with a water propulsion unit to keep the swimmer in place, which minimizes the need for a lengthy pool and fits in tight spaces.
