Concrete pools let you build shapes or sizes to match tricky yards or limited space. You can also add items like benches, tanning shelves, and steps to make the pool more functional and better looking. They come in different finishes like tile, pebbles, or plaster for different textures and colours. So they can look fancy and high-end. Let us look at the beauty of inground concrete pools and some of their limitations.
The Benefits of Inground Pools
Customisation Options
One of the best things about cement pools is you can customise them just how you want. Whether you want a unique shape, custom features like waterfalls or grottos or specific finishes like tile or pebble, cement pools can fit your vision perfectly. This level of customising means you can create a pool that works great with your home.
It can be a centrepiece in your backyard
A nice concrete pool can make your backyard look awesome. It usually increases your home value since buyers like a good-looking, well-kept pool.
Design Flexibility
Cement lets you get creative with the shape and look of your pool. You can have rounded corners, zero-entry areas, built-in benches and more. This freedom in design means your cement pool can be made for both form and function.
The drawbacks of inground pools
Higher Upfront Cost
The initial cost of a customised cement pool is typically higher than other pool types. Labour, materials, excavation work, and special features can add up quickly. While cement pools might save money in the long-term, be prepared to make a significant upfront investment.
It takes time to build
Building a concrete pool involves a lengthy excavation process, creating the structure and finishes, and installing plumbing and electrical systems. This can take weeks or months, frustrating homeowners wanting a quick pool installation.
Ongoing maintenance
Cement pools generally require more regular maintenance than other pools to keep them looking pristine. This includes acid washing to prevent staining, resealing to avoid cracks and leaks and diligent chemical monitoring. While routine care is essential for any pool, cement pools demand extra attention. This ongoing maintenance adds hassle and expense.
Rough surface
Concrete’s rough texture can also irritate swimmers’ skin, especially children’s sensitive skin, unless tile or pebble finishes are added. And over time, temperature changes and ground shifting can crack concrete.
Susceptibility to cracking
While minor cracks can be repaired, extensive damage necessitates costly resurfacing or repairs. So, concrete’s vulnerability to cracking is a consideration in areas with frequent ground movement.
Energy inefficient
Concrete pools tend to use more energy than fibreglass options. Since concrete soaks up heat, keeping the water at a steady temperature is tougher. This could mean spending more money on heating, especially when it’s chilly. You can set up a pool cover or energy-saving heating equipment to help control costs, but those include extra fees.
Conclusion
Concrete pools offer a lot of pluses, like strength, custom styling, diverse shapes and eye-catching good looks. They can majorly boost property value and give you a resort-worthy backyard. However, they also come with steep upfront pricing, long wait times for installation, nonstop maintenance and possible snags like bumpy surfaces and cracks.
Before committing to a concrete pool, think hard about your budget, schedule, and ability to upkeep it. If it’s a good match for your particular situation, having a customised concrete pool built into your yard can be an amazing addition that brings years of fun and makes your property more appealing.
