With summer right around the corner, many
families are looking into swimming recreational entertainment for their
families. Traditional swimming pools, both above ground vinyl pools or inground
fiberglass and concrete pools, have been the standard for a long time. But
recently, a traditional pool alternative, has emerged and quickly grown in
popularity. A swim spa provides swim-in-place technology in a dedicated and
versatile space that can be used for a year-round wellness experience.
In this article, we'll explore the differences between the traditional type of pools and the newer swim spa options to help you decide which option is right for you and your family.
Inground Pools
Inground pools can
require a lot of space and construction. The average price and set up for an
inground fiberglass pool, including accessories, can run between $45,000 and
$85,000. A fiberglass pool can last a long time and require little maintenance
and are not considered as substantial as a plaster or concrete pool. Problems
that can arise with a fiberglass pool can range from improper installation,
earthquakes or any other hard impact that can develop issues.
Concrete pools can cost between $50,000 and $100,000, and they are one of the more expensive pools to upkeep with 10-year operating costs reaching as high as $27,000. Inground pools made with liners can run between $35,000 and $65,000. While one of the more affordable in-ground options, liner pools can bubble and tear. Using an inground pool in cooler months can also result in heating costs of $120 to $850, depending on the type of pool and how it is heated.
Above Ground Pools
When researching pools,
you are likely to come across above ground options as well. There are many
options available in the category, from simple kid-size pools you can pick up
at your local box store to above ground pools that can cost into the thousands.
The average cost for an above-ground pool kit can run from $2,500 to $7,000,
depending on the brand's quality and size.
Above ground pools are
not very customizable and are hard to heat. One choice you'll have for these
types of pools include choosing between longer, rectangular shape or a more
traditional round shape. Many families build decks around above ground pools,
and this can bring the project to a much higher price point.
Whether inground or
above ground, most states or counties require by law that you have a fence that
locks built around the pool, which could be an added cost to consider with your
purchase. This requirement may not apply to a swim spa. ALWAYS READ UP ON YOUR LOCAL LAWS REGARDING POOLS AND FENCING BEFORE
PURCHASING!
Swim Spas
An alternative to
traditional pools, a swim spa has unlimited potential for fitness, swimming
family fun and relaxation in one space-saving footprint. The starting price
point for a quality swim spa will begin around $20,000, with additional options
available that include an underwater treadmill, aqua bike, resistance bands,
Bluetooth sound systems, fitness apps and more. Total cost will be dependent on
options selected as well as brand, model, and size. Swim spas range from 12' to
20' in length and can vary from around 6' to 8' wide. Various depths are also
available.
Despite the smaller
footprint, swim spas offer many benefits. They provide swim-in-place
technology, the ability to run or walk with a treadmill addition or excise with
resistance band or an aqua bike. You'll also feed your emotional well-being by
enjoying time with your family and friends and the ability to simply relax.
Swim spas also have a
lower amount of maintenance required. With a constant cover, you are not always
having to remove unwanted debris. Many swim spa owners choose their model
because it looks clean in their backyard, allows for other space and it is cost
efficient. Additionally, a swim spa can be used year-round. Heating a swim spa,
with its smaller footprint, can be less than half the cost of heating a
traditional pool, especially in the winter months.
Factoring in Size
Yards are getting
smaller and smaller. Larger pools can overrun your yard and give you less
breathing room. For most homes, swim spas are a more ideal choice in terms of
space and allowing areas for your lawn, gardening, gatherings, and outdoor
games.
Think About Maintenance
Larger, traditional
pools are going to have a more rigorous level of maintenance due to the sheer
volume. Annual chemical costs, utilities and man-hours can quickly add up when
maintaining a traditional pool. While swim spas are not without their own
upkeep, the lower volume of water and constant cover, when not in use, provide
for simpler and less expensive maintenance.
Home Entertainment
Another pool option is
going to a local public or private club pool. With that option, you can have
membership fees and have deal with packing essentials, travel, and shared use.
You're also relying on others to properly maintain the pool with a high-level
of use. Having a swimming spot - whether inground, above ground or a swim spa -
right in your own backyard is without a doubt a wonderful connivence.
Seasonal vs. Year-Round Use
Most traditional pools
are only going to be available for season use. The months you can use it are
weather dependent, which can vary year-to-year. You'll also incur time and
expense in winterizing the pool for those months you can't use it. A swim spa can be heated and used year-round. Regulated temperature means you don't
have to lose what you're paying for a good chunk of the year. Continue your
exercise routine, enjoy hydrotherapy, let the kids have fun and relax no matter
what season it is!
Installation
For any pool options, preparation will be required. A sturdy, level surface will be necessary. With inground pools, you'll also have a depth clearance in your yard to dig the needed space. This step can have a long preparation process. With above ground pools, you'll also need to check for underground piping, drainage or wiring that the pool cannot go above. This can also be a factor in where you'll place a swim spa, but the footprint needed will be smaller. With a swim spa, you may already have enough space on an existing patio, or a concrete pad may need to be added. Once you have the area will the swim spa will go, you'll also want to factor in getting the unit to the desired space. Typically, this can be done with a standard delivery crew trained to deliver the swim spa, but occasionally a crane may be necessary. While that may be an added cost if needed, crane costs are reasonable.
Enjoy Your New Pool
Hopefully this article helped shed some light on some the different
factors to consider when purchasing a pool for your home. While traditional
inground or above ground pools have been the older norm for an at-home swimming
experience, those options may no longer be the best option for you. A smaller
footprint swim spa with superior swim-in-place technology can provide the same
fun with family and friends while also providing many other aquatic and
cost-saving benefits.
Georgia Spa Company proudly carries Endless Pools swim spas. Endless
Pools sets the standard in compact pools and aquatic fitness technology. If
you're ready to explore swim spa options for your backyard, we invite you to
visit a Georgia Spa Company location near you. We have six showrooms located in
Kennesaw, Alpharetta, Buford, Athens, Augusta and Newnan. We will be glad to
answer any additional questions you may have, and even set you up for a test
swim if interested!