A lot of people dream about having a swimming pool in the backyard, especially when the blazing summer heat and humidity roll in. But, there are space constraints that could make a traditional pool impossible, and a new swimming pool can be very expensive. Inflatable pools can solve all of these problems in one go. So are they worth it, and are there better alternatives?
Below, we’ll go over all of the important factors you want to consider when you’re trying to decide between a plastic pool and something else. These include things like the biggest reasons you’d want a paddling pool, disadvantages, costs and more.
Defining a Plastic Pool
First, what is a plastic pool? If I ask you to imagine an inflatable pool, chances are you’re going to think of the tiny kid’s pools that younger children splash around in. However, there are current plastic pools large enough for several adults to sit comfortably in at one time.
The variety has also evolved over the years. The basic plastic pool is just an oversized paddling pool without many special features. Then, you can go a step or two up and get inflatable pools that have metal frames, or those that have a steel frame with numerous layers of plastic over it to create a more durable option. Vinyl pools are at the top of the plastic pool range, and you can install them above or in-ground. The more sophisticated your plastic pool gets, the more expensive it’ll be to install and maintain.
Five Big Reasons to Consider Getting a Plastic Pool
Why would someone go through all the trouble of investing in a blow-up swimming pool that will break down much quicker than something like a fibreglass one? There are several big reasons for this, and we’ve picked out the most important ones for you below.
1. Cost
As much as it stings, your budget plays a huge role in which pool you choose for your yard. Plastic pools are, in general, much more cost-effective than fibreglass or concrete ones upfront. Buying and installing them don’t cost nearly as much as it would if you went with something more durable. And, maintaining it won’t break your budget either. You can get a plastic pool for as little as $200 or less, and you can get one large enough at this price for the entire family to enjoy.
2. Convenience
Convenience is another big part of why people choose to buy blow-up swimming pools over something more durable and long-lasting. You can usually buy one of these pools, transport it to your home and set it up in your yard without the help of any pool specialists. Additionally, you most likely won’t need any further advice on how to maintain your pool. Some plastic pools don’t come with a pump system to worry about unless you start getting into the higher-end models. All of this boosts your savings and the convenience factor.
3. Easier Access
If you have a pool sitting above-ground, it can be difficult for smaller children to get in and out. Many plastic pools sit lower to the ground, and their walls can bend. As such, your kid can easily step or slide over the wall and into the pool. They can also get back out again without any huge fuss. Depending on the pool size, this also adds a safety element – inflatable pools usually aren’t as big as other types, so you won’t have to worry as much about your kid having an accident. You should monitor them constantly, though.
4. Instant Gratification
If you have kids at home that are too anxious to get in the pool, it can seem like it’s taking ages to fill up and get the water ready for swimming. Blow up swimming pools can give you a feeling of almost instant gratification. You bring one home, set it up, fill it with water and let your kid go. This is excellent for those hot and humid summer days where you just want to cool off and have a place to splash around and have fun right at the moment. Higher-end pools are slightly more complicated and can take more time to install.
5. Portability
Unlike some pools that don’t move once you get them in place, plastic pools are highly portable. You can easily drain them, fold them up and move them from space to space. This is a nice touch if you don’t have a concrete area for your pool to sit and you don’t want it in one place all summer. Most of them are relatively lightweight once emptied and dried, so it’s not too much for one or two people to move them to a new space or fold up to store for the winter months.
Plastic Pools and Safety
Unfortunately, it can be very easy to overlook the safety aspect of your plastic pool because it’s a portable, above-ground option. Your plastic pool has to meet Australian Standard 1926 if it’s over 300 mm deep. This standard dictates that you have to surround your plastic pool with a 1.2-metre-high fence on all sides, and every gate or door must self-latch or self-close.
The outside of the pool’s fence area has to have a non-climbable zone of 900 mm. Inside this 900 mm, you can’t have anything that anyone could climb on, such as furniture or rocks. The goal is to create a flat area that doesn’t allow someone to use it as a stand to climb over the fence.
Downsides of Blow Up Swimming Pools
Plastic Pool Alternatives
If an inflatable pool doesn’t sound like something feasible for your yard, there are several nice alternatives you can consider. They’ll generally last longer, and buying and maintaining them don’t have to break the bank. If space is an issue, consider installing a Little Pool. These are affordable, high-quality fibreglass pools. They have all of the latest technology available on the market incorporated into their design, making them a very safe and durable choice.
Little Pools are very compact, so it is easy to transport these plastic pool alternatives on trucks to your home. They also require very little site maintenance to prepare your yard. All you need to have is a level surface to set your pool. This could be straight on the ground, but a concrete slab is better. All you have to do is hook them up to electricity, fill them up and they’re ready to use. You get lighting, a filtration system, basic pool maintenance kit and more with each purchase. And, there are several colours and shapes available.
Little Pools are very affordable, and you won’t have to put in the same amount of maintenance to keep them looking nice day in and day out as you would a traditional pool. This results in more savings for you, and you can use your excess time to enjoy your pool to the fullest. Staying at home (and planning a staycation) near your Little Pool can be really relacing and exciting at the same time.
Another alternative is a plunge pool by Compass Pools. This pool is perfect for people who don’t have space for a traditional pool but want the durability that comes with having a fibreglass pool in their yard. This is another popular option because it can be very affordable in the long run. You will pay more upfront for them, but they pay for themselves because fibreglass can last for decades without any resurfacing required. The maintenance for a fibreglass pool is lower as well, and the fibreglass won’t erode due to the pool chemicals. It is still important you keep the chemicals well-balanced, though, to keep your pool healthy and safe.
Plunge pools come in eight different sizes, ranging from 2.85 m long and 2.1 m wide to 6.3 m long by 3.39 m wide. This gives you a slightly deeper pool that is very self-contained. They get up to 1.7 m deep, and this is more than deep enough for adults.
Compass Pools Has Fibreglass Pools That Will Last for Years
If you’re in the market for something slightly sturdier than a plastic pool, try Compass Pool’s fibreglass options. We have something for any aspiring pool owner, and our fibreglass pools are some of the best in Australia. They’re durable, and they have the best materials on the market incorporated into their design to ensure that you’re getting a lasting investment.
We’re dedicated to putting out quality products that encourage a love of swimming. Our blog features dozens of articles relating to everything about swimming and pools, and you can find great advice to help you get the most out of your new fibreglass pool.
Anyone who would like to know more about our line of compact pools should contact our expert team at your local Compass Pools dealership. We’re happy to answer your questions and guide you along to picking out the perfect pool for your space.