What are outdoor pools?
If you’ve been looking to upgrade your outdoor space, there are infinite ways to incorporate a swimming pool into your property. Pools constructed in open, outdoor spaces allow you to enjoy the sun, fresh air, and stunning views while you swim.
A backyard swimming pool not only serves as a refreshing escape during the hot summer months in Atlanta, but also creates an ideal setting for entertaining friends, family gatherings, and relaxation year-round. Imagine lounging poolside with a drink in hand, hosting barbecues, or enjoying evening swims under the stars with your significant other —a pool transforms your yard into a personal paradise.
Types of outdoor pools
There’s a backyard swimming pool to suit nearly any style, budget, and space. Whether you're considering an in ground pool for a sleek, polished look or an above ground pool for affordability and convenience, the key to creating your ideal pool is smart design. Even if you’re worried about pool equipment or the appearance of an above ground structure, clever landscaping and thoughtful design choices can help blend these features into your backyard’s aesthetic.
Above ground pools
An above ground pool is a versatile and cost-effective way to maximize your outdoor space. Above ground pools sit on the surface of your yard. Unlike in ground pools, which require extensive excavation and installation time, above ground pools are pre-manufactured and designed for easy setup. They come in various shapes and sizes, allowing you to choose the perfect fit for your yard and lifestyle.
An above ground backyard swimming pool can be disassembled and moved if you relocate or simply want to change your layout. This flexibility is a big advantage for renters or those who plan on moving homes in the future. Enjoy the benefits of having a pool without a long-term or structural investment.
In ground pools
An in-ground pool is a permanent, custom-built pool that’s installed directly into the ground, offering a sleek, low-profile look that elegantly blends into your outdoor landscape. An in ground outdoor swimming pool is highly customizable in terms of shape, size, and materials. If you want a deep end for diving or enough space for lap swimming, an in-ground pool allows for those options.
The durability of in ground pools gives homeowners a striking backyard focal point built to last. This design significantly boosts your home’s value and curb appeal. It’s considered a luxury feature that potential buyers love, which means that your investment not only enhances your lifestyle but can also pay off when it’s time to sell.
Fiberglass pools
Fiberglass pools are flexible and sturdy. Though you typically can’t customize a fiberglass pool, backyard connoisseurs looking for a low-cost, low-maintenance water feature will find many advantages in this material. Fiberglass pools are manufactured off-site, and delivered in one piece. This means installation happens super fast, with fewer complications. The smooth, gel-coated surface of a fiberglass pool feels much softer and gentler on the skin and is a good choice for households with children. This gel coat finish can last for many years without the need for resurfacing. Fiberglass is a nonporous surface, resistant to algae and bacteria and less likely to stain.
Vinyl-liner pools
In ground pools fitted with vinyl liners have a concrete foundation and paneled walls that are covered by a custom-made vinyl liner. Vinyl liners are generally a more affordable route to go than fiberglass or concrete construction, and the material comes in a wide variety of vibrant colors and textures. Vinyl is also a smooth and non-porous surface, which feels comfortable underfoot and is less likely to harbor algae and bacteria compared to rougher surfaces like concrete. This means less maintenance and fewer chemicals needed to keep your pool clean. A professional swimming pool installer can fit vinyl liners to accommodate unique shapes and sizes for a memorable water feature. The liner will need to be replaced every 7-10 years, but this upkeep is much cheaper than the resurfacing a concrete pool requires.
What are outdoor pools?
If you’ve been looking to upgrade your outdoor space, there are infinite ways to incorporate a swimming pool into your property. Pools constructed in open, outdoor spaces allow you to enjoy the sun, fresh air, and stunning views while you swim.
A backyard swimming pool not only serves as a refreshing escape during the hot summer months in Atlanta, but also creates an ideal setting for entertaining friends, family gatherings, and relaxation year-round. Imagine lounging poolside with a drink in hand, hosting barbecues, or enjoying evening swims under the stars with your significant other —a pool transforms your yard into a personal paradise.
Types of outdoor pools
There’s a backyard swimming pool to suit nearly any style, budget, and space. Whether you're considering an in ground pool for a sleek, polished look or an above ground pool for affordability and convenience, the key to creating your ideal pool is smart design. Even if you’re worried about pool equipment or the appearance of an above ground structure, clever landscaping and thoughtful design choices can help blend these features into your backyard’s aesthetic.
Above ground pools
An above ground pool is a versatile and cost-effective way to maximize your outdoor space. Above ground pools sit on the surface of your yard. Unlike in ground pools, which require extensive excavation and installation time, above ground pools are pre-manufactured and designed for easy setup. They come in various shapes and sizes, allowing you to choose the perfect fit for your yard and lifestyle.
An above ground backyard swimming pool can be disassembled and moved if you relocate or simply want to change your layout. This flexibility is a big advantage for renters or those who plan on moving homes in the future. Enjoy the benefits of having a pool without a long-term or structural investment.
In ground pools
An in-ground pool is a permanent, custom-built pool that’s installed directly into the ground, offering a sleek, low-profile look that elegantly blends into your outdoor landscape. An in ground outdoor swimming pool is highly customizable in terms of shape, size, and materials. If you want a deep end for diving or enough space for lap swimming, an in-ground pool allows for those options.
The durability of in ground pools gives homeowners a striking backyard focal point built to last. This design significantly boosts your home’s value and curb appeal. It’s considered a luxury feature that potential buyers love, which means that your investment not only enhances your lifestyle but can also pay off when it’s time to sell.
Fiberglass pools
Fiberglass pools are flexible and sturdy. Though you typically can’t customize a fiberglass pool, backyard connoisseurs looking for a low-cost, low-maintenance water feature will find many advantages in this material. Fiberglass pools are manufactured off-site, and delivered in one piece. This means installation happens super fast, with fewer complications. The smooth, gel-coated surface of a fiberglass pool feels much softer and gentler on the skin and is a good choice for households with children. This gel coat finish can last for many years without the need for resurfacing. Fiberglass is a nonporous surface, resistant to algae and bacteria and less likely to stain.
Vinyl-liner pools
In ground pools fitted with vinyl liners have a concrete foundation and paneled walls that are covered by a custom-made vinyl liner. Vinyl liners are generally a more affordable route to go than fiberglass or concrete construction, and the material comes in a wide variety of vibrant colors and textures. Vinyl is also a smooth and non-porous surface, which feels comfortable underfoot and is less likely to harbor algae and bacteria compared to rougher surfaces like concrete. This means less maintenance and fewer chemicals needed to keep your pool clean. A professional swimming pool installer can fit vinyl liners to accommodate unique shapes and sizes for a memorable water feature. The liner will need to be replaced every 7-10 years, but this upkeep is much cheaper than the resurfacing a concrete pool requires.
Concrete pools
Rather than a pool that looks awkwardly copied and pasted into your outdoor space, a carefully sculpted concrete pool looks natural in the landscape. Concrete pools are one of the most expensive kinds of outdoor pools to build, but they are also highly customizable and resistant to damage. Since the concrete is poured onsite, you can create a backyard swimming pool in any shape or size you’d like, never compromising on your vision. Since concrete is so versatile, you have unlimited options to add custom features like tanning ledges, benches, or attached spas. Plaster, tile, stone, or even pebble finishes can be applied to concrete pools for a luxurious feel.
Benefits of an outdoor pool
An outdoor swimming pool gives you a sense of openness and freedom. With no walls or ceilings confining you, you get to swim under the sky, whether it's a bright sunny afternoon or an evening dip beneath the stars. It’s a feeling that even the most luxe indoor pools can’t match. Besides the advantage of fresh air, there are practical reasons to keep your swimming pool separate from your indoor space.
Straightforward construction
Building an indoor pool is a massive undertaking. With an outdoor swimming pool, you’re working with fewer structural elements. There’s no need for the walls, ceilings, or ventilation systems that an indoor pool requires. You’re not dealing with the same level of design intricacies that come with integrating the pool into a building, which makes the entire process simpler and faster. Outdoor pools also typically require fewer permits and inspections compared to indoor pools, since building codes are stricter for indoor pools in most places. Outdoor pool construction impacts your day-to-day living significantly less than building an indoor pool.
Simpler maintenance
Indoor pools trap moisture inside the building, requiring constant monitoring to prevent mold and structural damage from all that moisture. Outdoor pools let nature help in keeping things ventilated and don’t trap water vapor in your home. You won’t have to worry about installing and maintaining a ventilation or dehumidification system. With modern outdoor pools, debris like leaves and dirt can easily be managed with automated pool covers and advanced filtration systems. When planning installation, your swimming pool installer can incorporate many features that make cleaning a snap.
Takes advantage of solar rays
Swimming is a healthy activity no matter where you get your laps in, but getting out in the fresh air drastically increases your well-being. The warm glow of the sun, which delivers vitamin D, is great for mental and physical health. The sun also warms the pool, so you save on energy costs as opposed to an indoor pool that requires quite a bit of power to reach comfortable temperatures.
A safer choice for small children
An indoor pool can be a luxurious and sexy home feature for single or childless adults, but if you live with or regularly host young kids, an outdoor pool will give you more peace of mind. Children are prone to roaming, and keeping them out of an indoor pool can be difficult in moments when you’re distracted. An indoor pool deck also slightly slopes inward toward the pool to prevent water from overflowing, creating an extra hazard for small children.
Here are a few safety features that make an outdoor swimming pool more kidproof:
- A sturdy, self-closing, and self-latching fence
- A safety pool cover that supports the weight of a child
- Alarms on the gate and the pool itself
Besides easing safety concerns, a backyard swimming pool provides a better overall environment for children to play. There is usually more leisure space around an outdoor pool, and the open-air acoustics make it more pleasant for the adults supervising boisterous kids. Indoor pools can become loud when kids’ laughs, playful screams, and splashes echo off the walls.
Building an outdoor pool
Before any part of the installation process begins, you’ll want to make sure you and your pool builder have a clear understanding of your ultimate vision. Outdoor pools are less expensive and easier to install, but careful thought should be put into the logistics first to make sure the pool, backyard, and home design are all in harmony. Above ground outdoor pools in particular can stick out like a sore thumb without forethought.
Can I install an above ground pool myself?
Yes, you can absolutely install an above-ground pool yourself, and many homeowners do. But here’s the thing: while DIY installation might save you a bit upfront, there’s a lot more to consider in the long run. Here’s a rundown of the steps it takes to install your own above ground pool using a kit:
- Find a spot with stable ground
- Acquire a permit according to local laws and HOA guidelines
- Consult with your utility company to make sure you’re not over shallow utility lines
- Make sure you have an accessible outdoor electrical source
- Clear debris and level the area
- Assemble pool walls and supports
- Install your pool liner
- Fill pool halfway
- Install skimmer, filter, pump, return, and top rail
All of these tasks can be a lot to tackle without experience. When you work with a seasoned swimming pool installer, you’re tapping into expertise that makes a difference in functionality and design. From leveling the ground perfectly, to making sure the pool is structurally sound, to chicly incorporating it into your outdoor space, professionals know how to avoid the common mistakes that can lead to costly fixes later on. Plus, they bring a designer’s eye to the project, making sure your pool isn’t just functional, but enhances the beauty of your yard and maximizes its potential.
Investing a little more upfront in professional installation means you’ll have peace of mind knowing your pool will stand the test of time and bring you and your family enjoyment for years without the headaches. It’s an investment in quality, longevity, and a stress-free experience.
Inspiring outdoor pool designs
When you’re designing your backyard escape, you should never feel boxed in. At White’s Pools, we love to take modern pool technology to new frontiers and create unique getaways for passionate Atlanta homeowners. Here are four classic, but distinct approaches to the outdoor swimming pool:
Classic rectangular pool
If you’re looking for timeless functionality, the classic rectangular in ground pool is perfect. Sleek, straight lines create a clean and sophisticated look. Ideal for laps or hosting gatherings, this design is versatile, making it a great investment. You can easily add custom features like a built-in spa or tanning ledge. While this design is on the higher end in terms of cost, it offers lasting value and complements any backyard vibe.
Freeform lagoon pool
Want to feel like you’re stepping into a tropical paradise every day? The freeform lagoon pool is formed in an organic shape that mimics a natural swimming hole, with curves and flowing lines that make it the perfect sensuous centerpiece of a lush backyard. With natural rock features, waterfalls, and strategic landscaping, this pool gives your space a resort-like feel.
Above-ground pool with intentional decking
Looking for a more budget-friendly option without sacrificing aesthetics? By incorporating custom decking that surrounds an above ground pool, you can create a stylish, inviting space perfect for lounging and entertaining. Add some built-in planters or privacy screens, and you'll forget it’s above ground. It’s a cost-effective way to enjoy all the perks of a pool without breaking the bank.
Personalized plunge pool
For smaller yards or those seeking a more intimate setting, a plunge pool offers the perfect solution. This compact, in ground design is focused on relaxation rather than swimming laps. It’s ideal for cooling off, soaking, or creating a zen-like refuge in your outdoor space. With options for sleek tiles or natural stone finishes, you can customize the entire look. It’s a lower-cost in ground option that still radiates luxury.
Get in touch and start planning your dream outdoor swimming pool today
A pool adds a special quality to a home that’s about more than just being able to swim at your leisure. It’s a place to create unforgettable moments with your loved ones and take a break from the world. White’s Pools brings unparalleled craftsmanship, attention to detail, and a designer’s touch to every project we’ve undertaken for Atlanta homeowners.
From the initial concept to the final touches, we’ll work with you to create an outdoor retreat to lose yourself in. Contact us today, and we’ll talk about how we can turn your vision into a stunning reality.
