A cocktail pool, also known as an “infinity pool” or “infinity edge pool,” is an architectural structure that creates the illusion of a pool extending out into a distant body of water. This type of pool usually has one or more of its edges situated lower than the rest, allowing the pool to appear to extend into the horizon and create a seamless transition between the water and the surrounding landscape.
Typically, cocktail pools are constructed with tile or a material that seals the water inside, allowing for a crystal-clear view of the swimming area and the environment beyond. A cocktail pool creates an interesting and stylish aesthetic, often used by designers to make a space appear larger and more luxurious.
These pools can be built in any setting, from a hillside to a flat lawn, with the perimeter lined with decking, fencing, or landscaping elements that add texture and depth to the design.
What is the difference between a plunge pool and a cocktail pool?
A plunge pool and a cocktail pool are both types of small-scale swimming pools, although they have some key differences. A plunge pool typically consists of a pool that is no larger than 15-feet wide or 12-feet long; it also does not have a step or a shallow end.
The main purpose of a plunge pool is for cooling off or cooling down after a hot day or strenuous activity. The water in plunge pools is usually heated and not chlorinated, resulting in a softer swimming experience.
A cocktail pool, on the other hand, is much larger and is designed for social interaction. It is used for activities such as swimming, enjoying the spa-like atmosphere, and sitting around the perimeter in shallow chairs.
A cocktail pool is also typically deeper than a plunge pool and is usually equipped with a step or shallow end for easier access. In addition, cocktail pools are usually chlorinated and heated, providing a more sanitary swimming experience.
How many people fit in a cocktail pool?
It is difficult to give a precise answer to this question, as the size of a cocktail pool can vary and the amount of people it can accommodate will depend on the size of the pool and the overall size of the people.
In general, cocktail pools should not accommodate more than 8-10 people, depending on their size. For cocktail pools that measure 8 feet by 8 feet, it would be comfortable to fit 4 sitting adults, 6 standing adults, and 8 children.
For larger pools that measure 12 feet by 12 feet, up to 8 sitting adults, 12 standing adults, and 16 children could fit comfortably. It is important to take into account the size of the people that will be utilizing the pool and how closely they are to each other when determining cocktail pool capacity.
What are the three types of inground pools?
The three most common types of inground pools are fiberglass, vinyl, and concrete.
Fiberglass pools are typically the most affordable and quickest to install option. With their gel coat finish, fiberglass pools offer a smooth, non-abrasive surface which is easy to maintain, and they come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes.
Vinyl pools are a less expensive alternative to concrete pools and are usually pre-fabricated. They tend to be easy to maintain, with a thicker and stronger liner than fiberglass pools.
Concrete pools, also known as gunite pools, provide the most design flexibility. They are constructed on-site by spraying a mixture of sand, cement and water onto a steel reinforced frame and then smoothed out into the desired shape.
With a concrete pool, you can design it to any size, shape or depth, allowing for greater customization and flexibility. Also, you can choose from a variety of materials and finishes, such as tile and different plaster finishes, for the interior surface of the pool.
What type of inground pool is cheapest?
The type of inground pool that is typically the most affordable is a vinyl pool. Vinyl pools come in a variety of shapes, sizes and finishes and are the most popular and affordable option for an inground pool.
Vinyl pools are quick and easy to install, are low maintenance and come in a variety of colors and finishes to choose from. Vinyl pools also have a long lifespan and can often last for over 20 years with just basic care.
These pools are also typically less expensive to operate than a concrete or fiberglass pool, as they require less chemicals and electricity to maintain them. Additionally, vinyl pools are less expensive to repair and maintain than the other pool types.
What is the downside of fiberglass pools?
The primary downside to owning a fiberglass pool is the initial cost. They typically cost more upfront than other materials such as vinyl and concrete and can require some extra maintenance. Depending on the size and shape of the pool, additional installation work may be required which can add to the cost.
Additionally, there may be more limited design and styles available with fiberglass pools. While there are some custom options available, they are generally limited in size, shape, and colour which can limit your creativity when designing your pool.
Not only are there limits to the design, but fiberglass pools can also be limited in terms of features and accessories, as custom fixtures and water features may require additional construction.
Fiberglass pools often also require more maintenance. The gelcoat surface should be cleaned and waxed regularly to protect it from fading and cracking. Other materials such as vinyl and concrete don’t require as much upkeep and so may be more cost-effective over time.
Overall, the downside to owning a fiberglass pool is the higher initial cost and limited design, features and maintenance options.
What’s the point of a plunge pool?
A plunge pool is a shallow swimming pool with a depth of about 4-5 feet, which is a great addition to your backyard landscape. They provide many benefits and can be used for a variety of activities. Plunge pools are great for cooling off on hot days or providing a low-impact exercise environment.
You can enjoy a relaxing soak in the warm water, and with beach entry stairs, it’s perfect for children to play and swim. Plunge pools are typically smaller than a traditional pool, making them more convenient to install, easier to maintain, and cheaper to operate.
Additionally, they can be used alongside a larger, deeper pool as an accessible way to cool off quickly. Overall, plunge pools offer a great way to enjoy the outdoors and can provide plenty of fun and entertainment for family, friends, and guests.
Is it worth having a plunge pool?
Having a plunge pool can be a great addition to a home, especially for a small outdoor space. The shallow depth and compact size of plunge pools make them much easier to install and cost-effective than a traditional in-ground pool, while still providing a great place to relax and have fun.
Plunge pools also don’t require a large, costly filtration system and feature minimal maintenance, which saves money and time compared to other types of pools. Plus, being able to adjust the temperature to a cooler level makes them ideal for hot days or when you want to cool off quickly.
Other benefits of having a plunge pool include the ability to create a unique outdoor living space. With the right decor and furniture, the pool can easily become a primo party spot to entertain family and friends or just lounge around with a good book.
You can even add features such as waterfalls and hot tubs to create a custom swimming area. And when you’re finished with the pool, you can use it for other activities like a planter for gardening or landscaping, an outdoor fire pit, or a relaxing seating area.
Overall, the value of having a plunge pool will depend on the size of your outdoor space, budget, and how often you plan on using it. A leap of faith might be worth it, though, since a plunge pool can provide an exciting way to cool off, relax, and add extra interest to your backyard.
Can you swim in a plunge pool?
Yes, it is possible to swim in a plunge pool. Plunge pools are small bodies of water, usually four to six feet deep, that are built specifically for recreational purposes, such as swimming. They are typically constructed from concrete or fiberglass, and can range from two feet wide to almost 20 feet in diameter.
Plunge pools are also known for their therapeutic benefits, as the combination of warm water and spa-like massage jets can be extremely relaxing. While plunge pools are not designed to accommodate traditional swimming strokes and lengths, they are great for doing laps and getting a good upper body and core workout.
They also make a great way to cool off on a hot summer day.
How deep should a plunge pool be?
The depth of a plunge pool will vary depending on the particular application. Generally speaking, plunge pools are designed to be around 4-6 feet deep, with a range between 3-8 feet. The depth should be determined by the space available, desired features, and purpose of the pool.
If a homeowner is looking to just cool off, they may prefer a shallower pool, while a swim school may require a deeper pool for lessons. Additionally, if the plunge pool is being used for therapy, the pool should be deep enough for the user to float and exercises to be done in a comfortable manner.
For a firmer footing when walking in the pool, a depth of 6-7 feet is recommended. Whichever depth you decide on, be sure the bottom of the pool is safe and slip resistant.
Is a plunge pool heated?
The short answer to this question is that it depends. In general, plunge pools are not typically heated but they can be heated if desired. Plunge pools are small, shallow, and typically cool so heating them is not necessary.
Heating a plunge pool would increase the cost of installation and maintenance and should be considered before making this choice.
If a plunge pool is heated, it is typically done through a heat pump, which uses electricity to heat the water. Because the pool is so small, it heats up quickly, making it more cost effective to heat than a full-size swimming pool.
When deciding if a plunge pool should be heated, it is important to consider factors such as the environmental climate of the location, how often the pool will be used, and if regular swimming temperature is desired.
For example, if a plunge pool is located in a cooler climate and will not be used year-round, it may not be necessary to heat the pool.
How much space is needed for a lap pool?
The size of a lap pool is determined by a variety of factors such as the space available, the swimmer’s size and speed, the type of swimming being done, the lap length, and how many swimmers will use the pool.
Generally speaking, a lap pool should be 25-50 feet long and 5-8 feet wide, with depths varying from 3.5 to 5 feet. Additionally, the connecting turns at each end should be at least 10 feet wide. Total space needed for a lap pool will depend on whether it is rectangular, Grecian/L-shape, or oval in shape.
For a rectangular shaped lap pool, a 25-foot pool is about 66 square feet (25 x 8 with no connecting turns needed). A 50 foot rectangular pool is about 200 square feet (50 x 8 with no connecting turns needed).
For an L-shaped lap pool, a 25-foot pool requires 90 square feet (25 x 10 plus 5 x 9 with 10 feet needed for the turn) and a 50-foot pool needs 240 square feet (50 x 10 plus 10 x 9 with 10 feet needed for the turn).
For an oval shaped lap pool, a 25-foot pool needs at least 80 square feet (25 feet wide x 10 feet long, with a 10 foot circular end at each end). For a 50-foot oval shaped lap pool, it is 200 square feet (50 wide x 10 long, with a 10 foot circular end at each end).
Overall, it is recommended that about 200-300 square feet of space will be needed for an average sized, in-ground lap pool. Of course, your actual needs will depend on the size of your pool and the size of your yard – so be sure to consult with a local pool contractor to determine what size pool will best fit your needs.