Are you thinking of installing a swimming pool in 2023? Here are 6 things you need to know

Are you thinking of installing a swimming pool in 2023? Here are 6 things you need to know

Before “splashing” and installing a pool, here 5 considerations:

Timing

The best time to swim is usually between April and mid-October, when the sun shows up and temperatures rise from mild to warm. If you wish to enjoy your pool to the maximum, consider installing it in February, March, April or May, and in September, October and November for the following year. In December and January, it usually freezes so the ground is too hard to dig and placement is quasi-impossible.

Material

The days of bright blue pools are numbered; there are different variations of pool materials. A pool is an investment, just like a house or a car, so make sure the pool you choose matches your needs and expectations about its investment value.

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Polyester (fiberglass): The cheapest material to make a pool out of, with a maximum lifespan of 20 years. Polyester pools often begin to degrade after only a few years, due to osmosis (blistering) and color fading. Furthermore, we also see erosion of the top layer, resulting in a rough surface that allows algae, bacteria and fungi to attach. Polyester pools are a good choice for those with a limited budget and the need for a quick pool solution.

Epoxy: Epoxy is very similar to a polyester pool, however the top layer consists of epoxy resin which extends the life span to 25 years. There is less chance of osmosis with epoxy pools and the color lasts longer. An epoxy coating is smoother than polyester, which allows for easier maintenance and more time between cleanings. Over time, the epoxy surface will also become rougher and provide more maintenance. Epoxy is a good upgrade from a polyester pool, for an average budget.

Polypropylene: Polypropylene is a plastic that has been used in the chemical industry for many years, higher in quality than polyester and epoxy. Polypropylene degrades less over time and has a life span of 25 years. There is no chance of osmosis with a polypropylene pool and it involves little maintenance due to its smooth non-porous surface. However, polypropylene is sensitive to temperature changes, resulting in shrinking and expanding, causing deformation at high temperatures. It is still a plastic and plastics are subject to UV influences, causing degradation (discoloration and becoming porous) and more and more maintenance over time. Polypropylene pools are available in standard sizes as well as custom sizes, have the look and price of a concrete pool without the long installation time.

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Concrete: Concrete has been considered one of the better pool materials for some time. It is a robust structure often paired with a PVC liner, polyester finish or (mosaic) tiles. The concrete structure has a longer lifespan than the previously mentioned pool materials, however, installation can take up to 3 months.

  • With a PVC liner: PVC liners have a lifespan of 8-12 years before replacement is needed. Folds may develop over the life span (due to shrinking and expanding due to temperature changes). The color also fades under the influence of Uv rays. When the liner loses its smooth surface due to erosion, algae, bacteria and other microorganisms have a chance to attach to the surface. A new PVC liner costs between 4,000 and 9,000 euros every 8 to 12 years.
  • With a polyester finish: A polyester finish has the same properties as a polyester pool (risk of osmosis, roughness and color fading). However, a polyester finish results in a modern look. After 20 years, the top layer should be renewed.
  • With (mosaic) tiles: Tiles are the most expensive finish for a concrete pool. There are many different options with tiles, however, in areas with high temperature fluctuations there is a high chance of tiles coming loose. Joints become porous over time and attract bacteria and dirt, leading to discoloration. This finish is the most difficult to maintain.

Stainless steel or inox: Although still relatively unknown as a swimming pool material, stainless steel has already proven itself in this application over the past 60 years in Austria. Stainless steel pools are virtually indestructible with a life span of 75 years, are lightweight in construction and retain their robust structure regardless of temperature fluctuations. Stainless steel pools are welded perfectly watertight and show no risk of cracking, erosion, discoloration, osmosis or deformation. The non-porous metal does not attract algae, bacteria, mold or other microorganisms, making it the most hygienic and low-maintenance pool material. Stainless steel pools are the most ecological of all pools, the metal reflects the sun’s rays causing natural heating. Stainless steel is the right choice for those who wish to enjoy their pool without having to worry about repairs and maintenance. The placement takes only one week. Stainless steel initially has a higher cost than the other types, however, the total cost of use is far lower over time.

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Automation

Modern technology has made aspects of our lives easier, this is also the case for managing a swimming pool. There are several smart phone applications that monitor the chemical balance of the water (HowsMyWater, Pool Doctor, Pool Smart). And other more sophisticated systems such as Behncke Control, whether or not included in a maintenance contract with your pool builder, that specifically monitor your pool, with remote control of temperature and lighting, and detailed analysis of the chemical balance.

Energy consumption

A hot topic is energy consumption. If you have solar panels, you can proceed with the construction of a swimming pool with confidence. It is so that filtration and heating with heat pump takes place during the day. So the energy consumption of your pool will be covered (mostly) by the solar panels. If you do not yet have solar panels and wish to proceed with the purchase of a pool, then it is wise to install solar panels as well.

Return on investment

Does a pool increase the value of your home? One market is not the other, but the experience of several owners shows that the value of the home increases by an average of 30% of the cost of the pool. If so, the pool must still be in decent to good condition when the home is sold.

You will be in contact with your pool builder for many years, so it is important that you choose a professional you can trust. Choose a builder with expertise and customer focus. Ask for references and visit or contact at least one. Some pool builders also have good contacts with pool house builders and garden contractors, not unimportant if you want to build not only your pool but also your garden.

If you have questions or interest please contact Philppe of Nouv’eau at telephone number 0032-(0)478366870 or by e-mail philippe@nouv-eau.be

See the overview of Nouv’eau inox swimming pools projects here

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