The Best Swimming Pool Materials
Selecting the best material is crucial for ensuring your swimming pool’s durability, aesthetics and maintenance requirements. We examine some of the most common materials used in pool construction to help you determine the best material for your swimming pool.
Concrete Pools
Concrete is one of the most traditional materials used in swimming pool construction as it offers flexibility in both shape and size. Concrete pools are known for their strength and durability, typically lasting for decades with proper maintenance. They do, however, often require a longer installation time and can be prone to cracking if not constructed correctly. Resurfacing every 10 to 15 years as well as other types of maintenance are necessary in keeping the pool in optimal condition.
Shotcrete Pools
Shotcrete is a specific application method of concrete where the material is pre-mixed with water and then sprayed onto a framework using high pressure. This technique allows for quick application and is ideal for creating designs that are more complex than a traditional rectangle.
By pre-mixing the concrete with water, you ensure consistency and reduce the risk of weak spots. The process requires skilled technicians to apply the material efficiently, as it must be used promptly to prevent the mixture from hardening too quickly. Shotcrete can also be more expensive due to the need for specialised equipment and expertise.
Steel Pools
Steel is another material used in pool construction, particularly for above-ground pools. Steel pools are known for their strength and durability and are capable of withstanding significant pressure and environmental factors. They are often quicker to install compared to concrete pools and can be more cost-effective than concrete or shotcrete pools.
Despite this, though, steel is susceptible to corroding over time, especially in areas with high moisture or salt content. Regular maintenance tasks like including protective coatings and inspections are essential to prevent rust and extend the pool’s lifespan.
Choosing the best material for your swimming pool depends on a number of factors such as budget, preferred design, maintenance efforts as well as environmental conditions. Concrete, in particular shotcrete, offers durability and design flexibility but requires skilled application and regular upkeep. Steel provides strength and quicker installation but demands diligent maintenance to prevent corrosion. Other materials such as fibreglass or vinyl-lined pools can offer smoother finishes and easier maintenance but come with their own limitations. At Lagoon Pools, our preferred materials are shotcrete and steel due to the flexibility and strength they offer meaning that your pool is not only built beautifully and uniquely yours but also built to last.
For more information and guidance on the right materials for your pool, contact a member of our team today.