When you have a pool, it can be hard to figure out what you need to do in order to make things the best they can possibly be. Oftentimes, people really struggle to figure out what they need to do, which is why many folks give up on the entire process altogether and let the condition of their swimming pools deteriorate. Although it can be easy to let things go, you can tighten things back up by using a few simple methods for success. For instance, you can work with a professional pool contractor to track your chemistry, and you can also work with other professionals to ensure a clean, healthy, beautiful pool area.
Inground swimming pools can be constructed using a variety of materials, from rigid fiberglass shells to flexible vinyl. However, if you want your inground swimming pool to stand the test of time and withstand everything the elements can throw at it, concrete swimming pools are hard to beat.
Unfortunately, while concrete swimming pools are durable and attractive, the interior surfaces of a concrete pool can be very difficult to keep clean. The rough, porous surface of bare concrete can become riddled with algae and bacterial growth when exposed to pool water, and keeping these surfaces free of unsightly staining can be virtually impossible.
Adding a finish to the inside of a concrete swimming pool can make it significantly easier to maintain and keep clean, but only if you pick the right finish. If you want to know which concrete swimming pool finish is best for creating a low maintenance inground swimming pool, read on:
Plaster Finishes
Plaster finishes for concrete swimming pools have a lot going for them -- they are less expensive than other finishing materials, but give your swimming pool a classic, luxurious appearance that looks deceptively expensive. The textured surface of a plaster-lined pool is also more comfortable to walk on than bare concrete but still provides enough grip underfoot to prevent slipping.
However, if you are looking for a pool finish that will reduce your concrete swimming pool's maintenance requirements, plaster is not the way to go. Like concrete, plaster has a porous surface that encourages the growth of algae, bacteria, and other microbes, and will need to be cleaned regularly to prevent permanent staining. Plaster finishes also have a limited lifespan, which will be even shorter if your pool water's acidity levels are not properly controlled.
Tiled Finishes
If you want a truly low-maintenance finish for your concrete swimming pool, you might be considering a tiled finish. However, you will need to choose the materials your tiles are made from carefully.
Tiles made from porcelain or other ceramics are an excellent low-maintenance choice. Each tile has a sealed, non-porous surface that is easy to clean and inhibits microbial growth. Glass tiles are another easy-to-clean option, and can be particularly aesthetically pleasuring, refracting natural light to give your pool water an attractive, 'tropical' blue appearance.
Natural stone tiles are another attractive option, and unusually colored stone types can be used to make your concrete pool look truly unique. Unfortunately, many natural stone tiles are unsealed and porous and will be more difficult to keep clean.
Whatever type of tile you choose, bear in mind they are usually considerably more expensive than other finishing materials and may take longer to install. However, a well-applied tiled finish is an excellent long-term investment and will last for decades with minimal maintenance and repair work. Tiled finishes are also much more resistant to damage caused by poorly controlled water pH.
Get in touch with a pool contractor for help with your new pool construction.
Share28 March 2022
