Landscaping Your Garden with a Pool

A swimming pool can increase the aesthetic value and appeal of your home and garden. This article is concerned with the range of pools available and highlights those which are of the best value.

Types of Pools

There are two types of pools, above ground and in ground.

Above-Ground Pools

These are pools that can be moved when necessary. They are the less expensive option and are available in a number of shapes and sizes.

Above ground pools are easily installed and relatively cheap, but they do not really add to the appeal of a landscape without a great deal of planning and installation of a deck. These pools are really for those people who are not ready for the permanency of an in-ground pool.

In-Ground Pools

This type of pool is a permanent fixture in your landscape. Within this category are three types – concrete, fiberglass and vinyl-liner in-ground.

* Concrete Pools: These are made “to order” by the company that you choose. They are very popular as they can be customized to fit in with the needs of the landscape design and they are cheaper than other ready-made in-ground pools. The major setback with concrete pools is the time it takes to construct.

* Fiberglass Pools: These are already formed pools and look like oversized bathtubs. They are easy to install after excavation as they come in one piece. They take a relatively short time to install, but they are more expensive and do not have the flexibility of design that a concrete pool may have. If you want an almost “instant” pool with less fuss, this is your option.

* Vinyl Liner Pool: These use a strong vinyl lining that is used to cover the excavation with panelled walls for support. It is fixed by using vinyl “ribs” that are attached to the top of the panel walls. This type of pool can be installed from between one to three weeks and they are a cheaper alternative for those on a tight budget.

Fencing your pool

A pool enclosure must be secure to prevent children, pets and non-swimmers from entering the pool, thereby averting a tragedy. A properly designed fence that does not allow “footholds” is a legal requirement in some communities and is a wise choice for anyone with a pool.

It is possible to build the fence yourself using either properly treated wood or metal that has been treated to prevent corrosion. Some people choose fence panels that are already made. These have uprights that are spaced at 3-4 inch intervals.

Planting Around the Pool

Surrounding your new pool with plantings is a good idea for two reasons: one is that it adds to the beauty of the design and the other is that it gives you a degree of privacy. Plants are also great as camouflage for pipes and pool equipment and will give the area some insulation.

The choice of plants for around your pool is crucial. Ideally, you should select plants that do not drop their leaves to minimize the cleaning of the pool. Plants with thorns should also be avoided for obvious reasons.

Lighting around the Pool

Carefully planned lighting around the pool area can transform it to a great evening entertainment area. Underwater lighting and inground landscaping can serve a duel purpose: it increases the safety aspect of the pool and creates a wonderful atmosphere with its illumination. Your pool becomes an even more attractive area to entertain friends and family, extending its usefulness well into the dark hours of the warmer months of the year.