Swimming Pool Design

Over the last few years swimming pools in Sacramento, California have been built in record numbers – and even in a slowing economy numbers are still up. This is testament to our desire to enjoy our homes as a retreat. And rightfully so, with the extreme heat in our Valley, what better way to enjoy a lazy weekend by lounging in and around your own backyard paradise. If planned properly, every weekend can be a trip to Kauai or St. Thomas – simply by stepping out your back door. If you’re contemplating a pool the following may prove helpful.

Firstly, the type of pool to install is limitless – as creativity is without bounds-limited only by the skill of the designer. Sometimes the architecture of the home may dictate which way to lean. For instance, classic formal architecture or extreme contemporary design would best be suited with a straight line pool design. A heavy tiled roof with a Spanish flavor could easily accommodate a tropical free -form design.

To boulder or not to boulder –that is the question. A natural boulder waterfall set at the rear of the swimming pool should be approached with caution, as this feature can turn out to be a disaster. Setting boulders to look natural requires an artist – and there are few out there that are qualified.

Be certain that you look at the work of the individual mason that will actually be building the waterfall, and if you like it, get it in writing that he or she will be doing the work. Importantly, a variety of boulder sizes should be incorporated into the design – as in nature is variety. A waterfall built of all basketball size rock looks unnatural and contrived. Also, be certain that there is ample planting room behind the waterfall. To appear natural you’ll need an ample backdrop for plantings.

If the natural boulder water feature is not your style, then perhaps a formal design is to your liking. Deck fountain sprays add a nice touch and are an inexpensive way to incorporate a simple fountain effect. Jets of water are emitted via brass nozzles and aimed at desired locations into the pool. If aimed properly the effect is fantastic.

The zero edge pool, or vanishing edge pool is used where a view beyond the property line is aesthetic, such as a lake, ocean or panoramic hillside. Spools are a cross between a spa and a pool and offer a cool place for a dip in the summer and a heated spa for winter use.

Once you figure out which type of pool suits your fancy, the following structural features should be considered. Always install two skimmers on a pool – you’ll be glad. Be certain to plumb the pool using 2 inch or larger return and service lines – with larger for huge pools. Smaller pipe will increase filter run times to properly clean the pool, which will increase energy costs. Always install an auto fill, which will eliminate having to add water manually during the summer.

Check out Pebble-Tek surfacing instead of plaster. With a longer life and ease of maintenance (no brushing is needed and chemical control is a snap because it’s a concrete base. A typical plaster finished pool contains calcium which is continually sluffing off into the water, thereby changing its balance). It’s well worth the extra funds spent to install. While some may complain that Pebble -Tek is too roughly textured, there is a smoother product called Pebble- Sheen.

Note this article is only scratching the surface of available pool choices out there and I would suggest talking to a local pool builder to fully inform you of your options.