Welcome to What Pool & Hot Tub – The UK's No1
Guide for Choosing a Pool, Spa or Sauna
So
you want to buy a pool?
First decide what you would like...
Inflatable Pool
Traditionally this is the very starting point when it comes to swimming pools but these pools are a serious step up from the paddling pool scenario. Made from reliable heavy gauge PVC they are easy to assemble and long lasting and can still provide a first swimming pool 'experience'. It is important to remember these pools are not large paddling pools and are not designed to be empted and refilled when you feel like it – you’ll find that most are supplied with simple filters and electric pumps to clean and circulate the water.
Metal frame and Splasher pool
The next stage up is the metal frame pools which normally comprise a one piece liner which hangs from a tubular frame and is easy to install. They are very much for a seasonal, warm weather use and are unlikely to last beyond 10 years. They still represent good value for money and can come with basic filtration equipment.
Above-ground
Above-ground pools are less permanent than other styles, and most can be drained and moved to another location if necessary. Sizes range from 8 feet to 28 feet, with depths up to 7 feet on some models. Raised decks that partially or completely surround the pool can be added for safety, convenience and aesthetic purposes.
Above-ground pools are the most budget friendly but can produce some spectacular results.
Above-ground/in-ground
You can clearly buy what would be an above-ground pool in terms of its design and structure and have it secured and put in the ground giving it a more permanent look. Add decking, lighting and you have a secure high quality pool.
In-ground vinyl
Traditional in-ground pools usually have reinforced walls with vinyl liners. Rectangular pools are the most common, but a variety of L-shaped, free form and other shapes are also available. Once the hole has been dug, support walls are typically made from aluminum, steel, fiberglass or pressure treated wood. Vinyl liners are tough but don’t expect them to last a lifetime as they are prone to tears and rips so you might get seven to 10 years of use before a replacement liner is needed.
Choices are plenty for patterns and colours, as well as other options which allow owners to add a personal touch to these pools.
Excavation is necessary before installation, so these pools fall into a higher price range than above-ground pools.
One-piece fibreglass shells
Fibreglass pools have been around since the 1950s. These one-piece, factory-built shells are made with fibreglass and finished with a gel coating similar to that used on modern boats.
These pools are a popular choice for many owners because installation time is quicker than some other styles. The pool shell is delivered complete to your home. After the hole is dug, the shell is lifted into place, levelled and water is added.
These pools are manufactured to withstand temperature changes and maintain the original surface beauty over time. Weekly chemical and cleaning maintenance is needed to protect the finish. The shells are already plumbed with all the necessary fittings and most companies will connect the pumps filters and heaters as part of their package.
In-ground gunite or concrete pool
Your own design and installed to your every whim represents the top of the range. This pool is a permanent fixture and represents a serious investment so a professional contractor, budgets and designs are all necessary. There are various ways to construct this type of pool – a layer of concrete (gunite or shotcrete) is normally sprayed into a reinforced framework of steel or single concrete block or twin block construction.
Gunite pools are the most elaborate of the pool categories. These are permanent, reinforced pools with concrete and plaster instead of liners. Excavation is necessary, and a variety of creative options are available to complement these high-quality pools, including waterfalls, custom steps and beach entries. The high quality of these pools usually puts them in the highest price range.
For more information on pools, please click on the magazine cover above.
First decide what you would like...
Inflatable Pool
Traditionally this is the very starting point when it comes to swimming pools but these pools are a serious step up from the paddling pool scenario. Made from reliable heavy gauge PVC they are easy to assemble and long lasting and can still provide a first swimming pool 'experience'. It is important to remember these pools are not large paddling pools and are not designed to be empted and refilled when you feel like it – you’ll find that most are supplied with simple filters and electric pumps to clean and circulate the water.
Metal frame and Splasher pool
The next stage up is the metal frame pools which normally comprise a one piece liner which hangs from a tubular frame and is easy to install. They are very much for a seasonal, warm weather use and are unlikely to last beyond 10 years. They still represent good value for money and can come with basic filtration equipment.
Above-ground
Above-ground pools are less permanent than other styles, and most can be drained and moved to another location if necessary. Sizes range from 8 feet to 28 feet, with depths up to 7 feet on some models. Raised decks that partially or completely surround the pool can be added for safety, convenience and aesthetic purposes.
Above-ground pools are the most budget friendly but can produce some spectacular results.
Above-ground/in-ground
You can clearly buy what would be an above-ground pool in terms of its design and structure and have it secured and put in the ground giving it a more permanent look. Add decking, lighting and you have a secure high quality pool.
In-ground vinyl
Traditional in-ground pools usually have reinforced walls with vinyl liners. Rectangular pools are the most common, but a variety of L-shaped, free form and other shapes are also available. Once the hole has been dug, support walls are typically made from aluminum, steel, fiberglass or pressure treated wood. Vinyl liners are tough but don’t expect them to last a lifetime as they are prone to tears and rips so you might get seven to 10 years of use before a replacement liner is needed.
Choices are plenty for patterns and colours, as well as other options which allow owners to add a personal touch to these pools.
Excavation is necessary before installation, so these pools fall into a higher price range than above-ground pools.
One-piece fibreglass shells
Fibreglass pools have been around since the 1950s. These one-piece, factory-built shells are made with fibreglass and finished with a gel coating similar to that used on modern boats.
These pools are a popular choice for many owners because installation time is quicker than some other styles. The pool shell is delivered complete to your home. After the hole is dug, the shell is lifted into place, levelled and water is added.
These pools are manufactured to withstand temperature changes and maintain the original surface beauty over time. Weekly chemical and cleaning maintenance is needed to protect the finish. The shells are already plumbed with all the necessary fittings and most companies will connect the pumps filters and heaters as part of their package.
In-ground gunite or concrete pool
Your own design and installed to your every whim represents the top of the range. This pool is a permanent fixture and represents a serious investment so a professional contractor, budgets and designs are all necessary. There are various ways to construct this type of pool – a layer of concrete (gunite or shotcrete) is normally sprayed into a reinforced framework of steel or single concrete block or twin block construction.
Gunite pools are the most elaborate of the pool categories. These are permanent, reinforced pools with concrete and plaster instead of liners. Excavation is necessary, and a variety of creative options are available to complement these high-quality pools, including waterfalls, custom steps and beach entries. The high quality of these pools usually puts them in the highest price range.
For more information on pools, please click on the magazine cover above.