A swimming pool is a feature that can make any backyard more lively and inviting for anyone who can afford it. Conventional in-ground pools are an aesthetically pleasing backyard oasis where you can bond with family, enjoy time with friends, or just relax all by yourself. While swimming pools can be a remarkable accent to have in your backyard, they also come with high costs and a lot of maintenance.
Luckily, there is an alternative. In growing numbers, people are getting the benefits of a swimming pool without the exorbitant cost and high maintenance.
What is a Natural Pool?
Natural pools are identical to traditional rectangular pools in many ways, from swimming space to the smooth floor, but have some significant differences. What sets natural pools apart is how they integrate the use of plant life to make a pool that is just as fun to swim in but without the need for unnatural chemicals.
If you think this would be best for your backyard, consider the natural pool pros and cons before moving forward.
PRO
- Adaptable– A natural pool can look however you want. If you’re looking for a more natural pond-like look, you can make your natural pool to fit that look while still having a pool you can swim in. If you want a more traditional pool look with a few plants as accents, you can do that too.
- Aesthetically pleasing– combine your garden into your pool area to create a functional and beautiful backyard feature.
- All season– Works in all climates and can be left filled all year. The pool will freeze like a pond during winter months and thaw in the spring without doing any damage to the pool.
- Natural– Plants clean the pool, so no need for harsh, environment-harming chemicals
- Less maintenance– Don’t require chlorine, chemical filtration, ph balancing, or any other maintenance of traditional pools. The plants and regeneration area perform all these natural pool maintenance tasks.
CON
- Higher initial cost– While a natural pool costs less to maintain, it does require more money initially to build. You need to basically build two ponds, one for swimming and one for a plant-based regeneration area. This will require more time, effort, and money to build.
- Requires more space– Because a natural pool requires both the pool and regeneration area, you’ll need more space to build on. The regeneration area should be about the size of the pool area itself. These pools don’t work well in smaller areas.
- Look is a mixed bag– While a natural pool gives an organic look to a backyard, it may not be for everyone. Water in a natural pool tends to be brown due to the plant life, and while it’s safe to swim in, it might put people off if they’re expecting the clear water look of a traditional pool.
So if you’re thinking of a DIY natural pool for your backyard, continue your research and know exactly what it can bring to your space. A natural pool can be a new, unique feature to add to your backyard and should seriously be considered by those looking for a pool that is easy to maintain and can make your backyard look beautiful.