Infinity Pools vs Lap Pools: Which One is Right for You?
Choosing the right type of swimming pool is crucial to match your lifestyle, your aesthetic preferences and your functional needs and two of the most popular choices are infinity pools and lap pools. While each poses a number of benefits, it is important to know which type of pool is right for you. Below, we have looked at the pros and cons of each to help you make the best decision.
The Benefits of Infinity Pools
Infinity pools, sometimes referred to as vanishing edge pools, are known for their breathtaking visual appeal and luxurious aesthetic. Here is why it may be the perfect choice for you:
Stunning Visual Impact
Infinity pools are designed to create the illusion that the water extends endlessly into the horizon. The effect is especially striking in suburban settings where it can provide a grand sense of openness and luxury. A sleek design can turn a typical garden into an architectural centrepiece, greatly enhancing your property’s visual appeal.
Increased Property Value
The unique and high-end design of an infinity pool can significantly boost your property’s market value. Elegance is always a selling point for luxury homes and an infinity pool will more than help to attract prospective buyers who appreciate fine craftsmanship and exclusivity.
Relaxation and Ambiance
The serene flow of water over the edge of an infinity pool provides a calming, spa-like ambiance. The designs promote relaxation and are perfect for homeowners seeking a tranquil retreat.
Customisation
Infinity pools are highly customisable. They can be tailored to fit different grounds, sizes and styles, making them versatile enough to complement a range of architectural designs.
The Drawbacks of Infinity Pools
While infinity pools offer undeniable beauty, there are naturally some downsides to consider.
High Construction Costs
The intricate design and engineering required to create the vanishing edge effect can make infinity pools expensive to build. They often require advanced planning, additional materials, and skilled labour, all of which drive costs higher than a more standard swimming pool.
Maintenance Challenges
Maintaining an infinity pool can be more complex than a standard pool. The overflow mechanism, catch basin and pumps all require regular maintenance to ensure proper functioning and prevent water loss or ongoing mechanical issues.
Not Ideal for Small Spaces
Infinity pools typically require a large area to achieve their dramatic visual effect. If your property lacks the space or a scenic backdrop, the pool may not deliver its full aesthetic potential.
Energy Usage
The continuous flow of water requires additional energy to operate the pumps and filtration systems, potentially increasing utility bills.
The Benefits of Lap Pools
Lap pools are designed primarily for exercise and swimming training. While still maintaining sleek and modern visual apparel, they offer advantages that are more focused on your health and wellbeing.
Fitness and Health Benefits
Lap pools are ideal for those who prioritise fitness. Their elongated design is perfect for uninterrupted swimming, allowing users to build endurance, and strength and improve their cardiovascular health.
Efficient Use of Space
Lap pools are typically narrow and long, making them a great option for properties with limited space. They can be constructed in gardens where a larger pool might not fit.
Cost-Effective Construction
Compared to infinity pools, lap pools are generally less expensive to build. The straightforward design requires fewer custom elements, reducing both material and labour costs.
Lower Maintenance Needs
Lap pools are simpler to maintain due to their straightforward design. With fewer complex features like vanishing edges or catch basins, upkeep is less time-consuming and less expensive.
Versatility in Usage
Lap pools can double as recreational pools with minor modifications. Adding shallow steps or a small lounging area can make them enjoyable for relaxation as well as exercise.
The Drawbacks of Lap Pools
Despite their many benefits, lap pools have their own set of limitations:
Less Suitable for Large Groups
Lap pools may not offer the same type of social hub that other, larger pools might due to their narrow width. They are less ideal for large gatherings and social events, instead, they are better suited for individual or small-group use.
Limited Designs
Lap pools often have a uniform, linear design that may not integrate well with all types of landscapes or architectural styles. Their straightforward structure can appear plain compared to other pool types.
Choosing the right type of swimming pool is crucial to match your lifestyle, your aesthetic preferences and your functional needs and two of the most popular choices are infinity pools and lap pools. While each poses a number of benefits, it is important to know which type of pool is right for you. Below, we have looked at the pros and cons of each to help you make the best decision.
The Benefits of Infinity Pools
Infinity pools, sometimes referred to as vanishing edge pools, are known for their breathtaking visual appeal and luxurious aesthetic. Here is why it may be the perfect choice for you:
Stunning Visual Impact
Infinity pools are designed to create the illusion that the water extends endlessly into the horizon. The effect is especially striking in suburban settings where it can provide a grand sense of openness and luxury. A sleek design can turn a typical garden into an architectural centrepiece, greatly enhancing your property’s visual appeal.
Increased Property Value
The unique and high-end design of an infinity pool can significantly boost your property’s market value. Elegance is always a selling point for luxury homes and an infinity pool will more than help to attract prospective buyers who appreciate fine craftsmanship and exclusivity.
Relaxation and Ambiance
The serene flow of water over the edge of an infinity pool provides a calming, spa-like ambiance. The designs promote relaxation and are perfect for homeowners seeking a tranquil retreat.
Customisation
Infinity pools are highly customisable. They can be tailored to fit different grounds, sizes and styles, making them versatile enough to complement a range of architectural designs.
The Drawbacks of Infinity Pools
While infinity pools offer undeniable beauty, there are naturally some downsides to consider.
High Construction Costs
The intricate design and engineering required to create the vanishing edge effect can make infinity pools expensive to build. They often require advanced planning, additional materials, and skilled labour, all of which drive costs higher than a more standard swimming pool.
Maintenance Challenges
Maintaining an infinity pool can be more complex than a standard pool. The overflow mechanism, catch basin and pumps all require regular maintenance to ensure proper functioning and prevent water loss or ongoing mechanical issues.
Not Ideal for Small Spaces
Infinity pools typically require a large area to achieve their dramatic visual effect. If your property lacks the space or a scenic backdrop, the pool may not deliver its full aesthetic potential.
Energy Usage
The continuous flow of water requires additional energy to operate the pumps and filtration systems, potentially increasing utility bills.
The Benefits of Lap Pools
Lap pools are designed primarily for exercise and swimming training. While still maintaining sleek and modern visual apparel, they offer advantages that are more focused on your health and wellbeing.
Fitness and Health Benefits
Lap pools are ideal for those who prioritise fitness. Their elongated design is perfect for uninterrupted swimming, allowing users to build endurance, and strength and improve their cardiovascular health.
Efficient Use of Space
Lap pools are typically narrow and long, making them a great option for properties with limited space. They can be constructed in gardens where a larger pool might not fit.
Cost-Effective Construction
Compared to infinity pools, lap pools are generally less expensive to build. The straightforward design requires fewer custom elements, reducing both material and labour costs.
Lower Maintenance Needs
Lap pools are simpler to maintain due to their straightforward design. With fewer complex features like vanishing edges or catch basins, upkeep is less time-consuming and less expensive.
Versatility in Usage
Lap pools can double as recreational pools with minor modifications. Adding shallow steps or a small lounging area can make them enjoyable for relaxation as well as exercise.
The Drawbacks of Lap Pools
Despite their many benefits, lap pools have their own set of limitations:
Less Suitable for Large Groups
Lap pools may not offer the same type of social hub that other, larger pools might due to their narrow width. They are less ideal for large gatherings and social events, instead, they are better suited for individual or small-group use.
Limited Designs
Lap pools often have a uniform, linear design that may not integrate well with all types of landscapes or architectural styles. Their straightforward structure can appear plain compared to other pool types.
Temperature Management
The length of lap pools can make it challenging to maintain consistent water temperatures, especially in regions with varying weather conditions. This may require additional heating systems to ensure comfort during use.
The choice between an infinity pool and a lap pool ultimately depends on your priorities. If you value luxury, aesthetics and relaxation, an infinity pool may be worth the investment. If functionality, fitness and cost-effectiveness are your primary concerns, though, a lap pool is likely the better option. By weighing the pros and cons of each, you can select a pool design that aligns with your lifestyle, property layout, and budget, ensuring a perfect fit for your needs.