If you are looking for a great way to improve the existing comfort of your home, while making it more luxurious, there are few things more enticing than a swimming pool. Backyard pools have been a mainstay in Australian homes, owing to the warmth and sunlight that the country enjoys.
However, the benefits of owning a swimming pool extend far beyond a refreshing dip on a hot summer’s day. Swimming is a fantastic low-impact exercise that can help to improve overall health and fitness. Not to mention, swimming can also help to alleviate stress and promote relaxation, making it a great way to unwind after a long day.
But the benefits don’t stop there. A swimming pool can also add considerable value to your home, making it a wise investment for the future. Plus, having a pool can provide a fun and safe place for children to play and splash around.
Before discussing the benefits of a swimming pool in your backyard, let’s talk about the different types available. There’s something for everyone —from lap pools to plunge pools. However, if you’re looking for a pool that combines practicality and elegance, an infinity pool may be just what you’ve been after.
These pools are the epitome of luxury and sophistication. They create an illusion of endless water stretching out into the horizon, giving your backyard a touch of glamor that will make your neighbours envious.
But despite their undeniable allure, some people shy away from infinity pools due to some long-held misconceptions. This article will explain the concept of infinity pools and why they’re an excellent choice for all backyards.
What is an infinity pool?
Imagine a four-sided pool with only three edges. Sounds fascinating, right? That is the essence of the infinity pool, and ‘fascinating’ doesn’t even begin to describe how remarkable they truly are. An infinity pool is a swimming pool with three visible edges and an invisible edge that appears like the water is flowing over the horizon.
Also known as a zero-edge pool, infinity pools give the illusion that one edge is missing, making the experience much more exciting. The missing fourth edge is of course an elaborate illusion, and you’ll come in contact with the wall as soon as you swim over to it.
The concept behind the infinity pool
First-time users are often left wondering where the water goes and how the pool remains full with all the water flowing away over the invisible edge. Like a magician revealing the secrets to his craft, the following is a breakdown of how the infinity pool really works.
The infinity pool is built to have two levels or compartments. The first level is the actual pool with all the water that is swam in. This level is not so different from a regular concrete swimming pool, and you can bet the water also feels the same. The second level is a basin, that is strategically built below the invisible edge to collect the overflowing water. Not only does it collect this water, but it also pumps it back into the main pool via taps, creating a perfect water recycling system where no water is wasted.
In reality, the infinity pool is a regular pool with two compartments and an invisible edge that appears as though it doesn’t exist. Some pool owners also get creative by making the overflowing water recycling through a system that looks like a waterfall or fountain.
Are infinity pools safe?
Safety is always a major concern for homeowners looking to install a swimming pool, and this becomes even more of an issue with an infinity pool, which appears to be missing an entire edge. Homeowners can rest easy however, as these pools have been tested and proven safe enough for use in residential and commercial properties. Infinity pools have been proven to be as every bit as safe as regular swimming pools.
Additionally, infinity pool builders often ensure a perfect link-up between the two layers of the pool to keep the water flowing steadily. Although it’s been established that the missing edge is just a clever illusion, and that there’s no risk of accidentally sliding over the edge into a bottomless abyss, if you do wish to add further security to your pool, you can choose to install additional safety features like handrails and barriers to support inexperienced or elderly swimmers.
Benefits of an infinity pool
What is it about infinity pools that are making them a must-have in homes and luxury buildings? Here are some important reasons to consider installing an infinity pool in your own home.
- Aesthetically Pleasing: The first benefit of infinity pools is that they give a touch of luxury wherever they are installed. The intricate design makes them a spectacle to behold; so much so, that having one will make it difficult to have a swim. You’ll just stand in awe at its beauty.
- Environmentally Friendly: This is another outstanding benefit of infinity pools. Water is hardly ever lost with this pool type, and the water over the edge is collected for reuse.
- Economical: One major concern for pool owners is the rising cost of utility bills, and we all know how much water that swimming pools require. With the recycling system of infinity pools, you will definitely be spending less on water bills.
Factors to Consider When Planning for an Infinity Pool
Considering all the benefits of infinity pools highlighted above, it is no surprise that many homeowners want to install this fantastic style of swimming pool. But before you jump on the bandwagon, there are some specifics to sort to ensure you get the best from your pool.
- Contractor: One of the first things to consider when planning a significant project like a swimming pool is your contractor. Since the success of this project relies largely on the skills of your contractor, you need to be certain that your pool builder is experienced, and trustworthy. Infinity pools are different from regular swimming pools, and a regular swimming pool builder may be unable to handle the task.
- Space: Infinity pools are about the same size as regular swimming pools, and you already know they require ample space. In fact, you may need a slightly bigger space to include the basin for the overflowing water. If the space in your yard is not big enough, you may want to opt for a different pool type.
- Design: One of the biggest selling points of infinity pools is their design. You can choose to personalise this design for maximum satisfaction too. You may want to go over some infinity pool designs with your contractor to select a suitable one for your home.
Conclusion
Infinity pools are a different pool type with only three visible edges, but their unique designs make them more widespread today. This article has explained the concept of this pool type and highlighted some great reasons to install an infinity pool in your yard. If an infinity pool sounds like something you’d be interested in having built in your own backyard, consult an infinity pool and landscape packages specialist today.