Before you put a pool in your property, you must first know the types of pools so that you can pick which one will best suit your needs and preferences. Among them are infinity pools and normal pools. Both of these serve as great additions to relax and have fun but differ greatly in design, functionality, aesthetics, and cost. This article focuses on the differences between these pools to guide you in the right choice.
1. Design and Aesthetics
The design and visual appeal of infinity pools and normal pools are some of the most noticeable differences.
- Infinity Pool: This is also known as a vanishing edge pool or zero edge pool. An infinity pool creates an illusion of water that seems to flow all the way into the horizon. This can be achieved by design one or more sides of the pool the same as the water level so water overflows to a catch basin where it is re-cycled. The visual effect of an infinity pool is simply breathtaking, especially in locations with breath-taking views that may include overlooking the ocean, lake, or mountain range.
- Normal Pool: Normal or traditional pools, sometimes called so because their edges are defined, have water levels that usually sit a few inches below the edge of the pool. They come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and materials, including concrete, fiberglass, and vinyl. Although they do not approach infinity pools in terms of visual beauty, normal pools can vary greatly in design and finishes to fit any landscape or architectural theme.
2. Functionality and Purpose
Both infinity pools and normal pools serve as spaces for swimming, relaxation, and entertainment, but their functionalities differ slightly due to their designs.
- Infinity Pool: An infinity pool is more of an aesthetic feature that gives luxurious appeal. Water absorbs into the exterior landscape, creating a climate of serene and peaceful feelings. An infinity pool is usually used in high-class resorts, luxury residential places, and sites with views providing panoramic view, thus using its potential dramatic effect.
- Normal Pool: There are various uses of a normal pool. The prime use of a normal pool is swimming, exercising, playing with family, and holding social gatherings. A normal pool is mostly used for swimming laps, diving, water sports, and play. These are the common pools used in backyards of residential areas, public facilities, and hotels, which can provide numerous functions other than ornamental value.
3. Installation and Maintenance Costs
The costs associated with installing and maintaining infinity pools versus normal pools can vary significantly due to their different designs and structures.
- Infinity Pool: These often prove more expensive to construct and maintain compared to traditional pools. That is because their design complexity, featuring a disappearing edge, catch basin, and sophisticated filtration systems, involves specialized construction techniques and materials. Their overflow mechanism and water levels need to be adjusted periodically as well, making them costlier to maintain.
- Normal Pool: The installation cost of the normal pool varies much due to size, shape, and material usage. However, it is cheaper to install a normal pool compared to an infinity pool since a normal pool is simpler and easier to construct. Normally, the maintenance cost is lower for normal pools; it only includes cleaning, chemical balancing, and other equipment maintenance.
4. Suitability for Different Settings
The suitability of an infinity pool versus a normal pool can depend largely on the property's location, landscape, and intended use.
- Infinity Pool: It's ideal for sites that have an open area, a fall from its elevation, slope hill side, or from top cliffs. The stunning feature overflows well as one expects the edge just becomes indistinguishable among all landscape and horizon at views on the high-class buildings where aesthetics counts high as luxury.
- Normal Pool: Normal pools can be set almost everywhere and are very versatile, particularly when it comes to placing the pool at the ground, indoors, or even on the roof. It is good for home owners who wish for a working swimming pool which can be customized to the specific spaces and budget they have. Normal pools can be installed almost anywhere residential or commercial property can hold enough space.
5. Environmental Impact
Environmental considerations are becoming increasingly important when choosing between an infinity pool and a normal pool.
- Infinity Pool: Because of overflow, infinity pools tend to consume more water than standard pools. It is a concern that evaporates heavily, especially during hot climate conditions, and thus calls for replenishment more often. Again, the amount of energy used to pump the water up to the edge of the pool as well as to circulate the water in the catch basin also increases the carbon footprint.
- Normal Pool: Normal pools are more environmentally friendly because they consume less water and have a lower evaporation rate. Properly covered and maintained, normal pools can save water and energy, making them a better choice for the eco-conscious homeowner.
Infinity pools and normal pools each have their benefits, depending on your preference, type of property, and budget. Infinity pools will be the best for the luxury-seeker who finds a feature visually stunning but also beautiful with a scenery view. On the other hand, normal pools are generally more versatile and affordable compared to infinity pools, appropriate for many uses and applications. Understanding such differences in pools will better help you decide which of them would suit your need and add beauty to your outdoor living space.