Building a new home is the perfect opportunity to create a space that suits your lifestyle, and for many, that includes a pool! Whether you’re dreaming of a dip on a hot summer’s day, a place for the kids to play, or a feature that adds value to your home, including a pool is a major decision. Before you take the plunge, it’s worth considering the different types of pools, their benefits and drawbacks, and how to maintain them.

TYPES OF POOLS

When it comes to adding a pool to your new home, there’s more than one option. The three main types commonly chosen in Australia are plunge pools, swimming pools, and spas – each suited to different needs and spaces.

Swimming Pools

Swimming pools are the classic choice, ranging from small lap pools to larger backyard pools. They’re best for families who love to swim, adults looking for aquatic exercise, or anyone who loves entertaining (Boxing Day BBQ, anyone?).

Benefits:

• Great for exercise, especially lap swimming.
• Perfect for families with children who want space to play.
• Can be a beautiful backyard feature, increasing property value.
• Offers flexibility for entertaining guests.

Drawbacks:

• Larger pools require more space, which might limit your backyard layout.
• Higher initial cost compared to plunge pools or spas.
• Maintenance can be time-consuming, including cleaning, chemical balancing, and ensuring water circulation.

Plunge Pools

Plunge pools are compact pools designed for cooling off rather than swimming laps. They’re ideal for smaller backyards or modern homes with limited space.

Benefits:

• Space-efficient, making them perfect for urban blocks.
• Lower maintenance costs compared to full-sized pools.
• Can be heated, making them enjoyable year-round.
• Often paired with decking or landscaping to create a stylish outdoor area.

Drawbacks:

• Not suitable for serious swimming or water sports.
• Smaller size can limit the number of people using it at once.
• Not as suitable for children as they have less play space and tend to be deeper (we recommend looking for shallower versions if you have young children).

Spas

Spas are designed for relaxation rather than swimming. They can be standalone features or integrated into a larger pool design as a secondary water feature.

Benefits:

• Compact and easy to install in most backyards.
• Great for relaxation, stress relief, and even therapeutic benefits.
• Can be enjoyed year-round, even in cooler months.
• Lower water volume makes them easier and cheaper to maintain than a full-sized pool.

Drawbacks:

• Not suitable for swimming or large-scale play.
• Can be costly to heat if used frequently.
• Best for short sessions only – using the spa for too long can leave you dehydrated or feeling light-headed.
• Limited play options for children, though small kids can enjoy splashing under supervision.

THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE YOU BUILD

Space and backyard layout: Larger swimming pools need ample space, while plunge pools or spas are ideal for smaller blocks.

Budget: Remember to include installation, fencing (which is mandatory in Australia), landscaping, and ongoing maintenance costs.

Safety: Pool fencing is required by law, and additional safety features like alarms and pool covers are worth considering, especially for families with children.

Climate: Heated pools or spas extend usability in cooler months, while unheated pools are perfect for summer.

Lifestyle: Consider how you plan to use the pool – exercise, entertaining, relaxation, or all of the above.

Cleaning: No matter which type of pool you choose, maintenance is a key consideration. Pools are exposed to sun, dust, and leaves, making cleaning and chemical balancing essential. For plunge pools and spas, maintenance is generally easier due to their smaller water volume. However, they still require chemical monitoring and cleaning to prevent algae or bacteria growth.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Adding a pool to your new home can be a dream come true, but it requires careful planning. Swimming pools, plunge pools, and spas each have their own advantages and limitations, and the best choice depends on your family, backyard, and lifestyle. Whatever type you choose, keeping your pool clean and well-maintained will ensure it remains a safe, enjoyable, and stylish feature of your home for years to come.