An indoor pool will go a long way toward making your home a pleasure to be in all year round. You can swim whenever you like, and you’ll have an extra degree of privacy and relaxation.
But having an indoor swimming pool is not just about the shape and the location. You’ve got to consider many things. Otherwise, you will end up with a pool that will be very expensive to maintain.
If you’re considering installing an indoor pool, here are some common errors to avoid!
Underestimating the importance of ventilation
Evaporation in an indoor pool will pump moisture into the air. If it’s not controlled, that moisture will condense on:
- Windows
- Ceilings
- Walls
- Other surfaces.
High humidity over time can lead to:
- Mold growth
- Deterioration of building materials
- Poor indoor air quality.
Design a ventilation system to deal with the moisture that will be generated by the pool. An appropriately sized dehumidifier can also be used to maintain the correct level of humidity in the building.
Selecting materials based on appearance alone
When it comes to designing an indoor pool, it is simple to get lost in the:
- Colors
- Patterns
- Finishes.
But not all of the attractive materials are appropriate for a site that is constantly wet and comes in contact with chemicals.
For instance, if you are choosing an indoor pool tile, you should take into account its:
- Water resistance
- Pool chemical resistance
- Temperature changes
- Grout compatibility
- Installation needs.
The area around the pool should be given special consideration. Smooth surfaces can become slippery when wet. Select finishes that are specifically engineered for pools.
Overlooking proper waterproofing
One of the absolutely critical bits of work when you’re building an indoor pool is the waterproofing. Moisture will get through any crack or gap whatsoever, and that can lead to:
- Leakages
- Deterioration of surrounding walls
- Damaged floors.
Ensure appropriate waterproofing systems are in place in areas vulnerable to splashing. Focus specifically on:
- Corners
- Joints
- Drains
- Pipe connections.
Problems can be avoided if:
- The installation is done by a professional
- The right tests are conducted before the work is completed.
Not planning for proper drainage
Any indoor pool will have water that pools around it. Splashes will create wet spots all over the room. Standing water can also lead to slippery walkways and moisture problems. Especially if the drainage isn’t up to the job.
The solution is to use appropriate floor drains. This enables water to flow out rather than pooling around. Also, consider how you will maintain the drainage system.
Inadequate space around the pool
Some homeowners tend to think only about the size of a pool. They forget about the space around it. Space must be adequate for:
- Safe movement
- Seating
- Storage
- Clean-up
- Maintenance access.
Consider:
- How people will be going in and out of the pool
- Where towels and other pool items will be stored
- How maintenance personnel will access key equipment.
Final thoughts
Installing an indoor pool requires careful planning and material selection. Problems in construction can be solved by planning for:
- Ventilation
- Materials
- Waterproofing
- Drainage
- Space, etc.
…at the outset and accounting for available space. All these details will help to make a better indoor pool experience and maintenance.
