When you’re hot and uncomfortable, you may be thinking how nice it would be to have a pool in the backyard to escape the heat. Before running out to buy a plastic pool, you should consider the pros and cons that come with them and whether there are better options available to you.
So, what is a plastic pool exactly?
Plastic pools are essentially made of plastic and come in a generous selection of styles and prices. They range from hard plastic shells to large soft plastic pools that are stabilised with aluminium framing right up to permanent vinyl lined pools.
Pros of a plastic pool
The price
Probably the most obvious reason people choose plastic pools is that they are inexpensive compared to other types of pools. They start at around $20 for the cheapest blow-up varieties and move up to thousands of dollars for more sturdy versions. They are usually simple to put together, so the installation is free and maintenance costs are minimal due to their size.
Convenient
Another advantage of plastic pools is that they are easily accessible and can be purchased from most large retail shops. It’s just a matter of jumping in the car and buying it, getting it home reading the instructions and putting it up. They are quick and unlike permanent pool options, there’s no waiting around for it to be built.
You can pack them up
You can move a plastic pool around so it doesn’t kill your grass and once the hot months have passed, you can simply pack it up and store until you need to use it again. Small plastic pools can be taken on camping trips and getaways.
Easy to get in and out
As store-bought plastic pools are relatively shallow and the sides are flexible, they are easier to get in and out of than a deep pool. While children always need to be supervised regardless of what type of pool they are in, they are safer for young swimmers who are gaining confidence in the water as they can touch the bottom in most cases.
Cons of plastic pools
Most need a compliant pool fence
While plastic pools are convenient and cheap, if they are over 300mm deep, they need to have a compliant pool fence in place. In most cases, the pool fence costs more than the pool itself. Those who run the risk of putting up a portable pool without a fence face being slapped with a hefty fine if caught. Not only that, if the pool is not secured, it poses a major safety risk to children who are unable to swim. It’s not worth the risk.
Not long-lasting
Unless you are investing in a high-end plastic pool, the likelihood of them getting a hole in them is high. They need to be completely dry before packing them up as even the smallest amount of moisture can lead to a mould outbreak making them unusable. Soft plastic pools are notorious for sustaining tears and while most come with repair kits, for this reason, it can be a hassle having to let the water out to repair and waiting for it to dry before refilling. There’s only so many times you can patch holes before you’ll have to replace it altogether. If you have a larger plastic pool that has a filter and needs chemicals to keep the water clean, the prolonged exposure to harsh chemicals will eventually break down the plastic.
No safety features
Most plastic swimming pools don’t have safety edges or even any steps for children to have a rest on. The plastic is usually slippery and difficult to grab on to.
What other options do I have?
While portable plastic pools are a great quick fix to get you through, they are not a long-term solution. If you are looking for a pool that you can use throughout the year, fibreglass pools are a great option. They come in a huge selection of styles, designs and they can be installed via alternate budget-friendly methods such as above-ground or partially above ground. Choosing one of these two installation techniques drastically reduces the amount of groundwork needed to prepare the site which can save you thousands of dollars. Smaller pool varieties tend to be slightly cheaper plus they are easier to maintain, use fewer chemicals, and less water than a large pool. They are a popular choice for people who have a courtyard or are limited on space. While permanent pool options are more expensive than plastic pools they are sturdy, long-lasting and the year-round benefits they offer are unmatched. They are also deeper, have safety ledges and generous seating and when paired with heating and spa jets it can enhance the swimming experience further.
Speak with a professional pool builder
If you have decided you would like a permanent fibreglass pools western sydney solution for your home, you should have a chat with a professional pool builder. Our team here at Newcastle Swimming Pools have a huge selection of award-winning fibreglass pools on offer and we have options to suit every backyard and budget. If you would like additional information or if you have any questions about the suitability of one of our pools for your home, get in touch with us today to discuss your options, we are happy to help.
