A few particular factors might play a role in any kind of custom swimming pool installation you’re considering on your property, and altitude can be one of them. Because the state of Utah is naturally high in elevation and many homes are built on slopes or hills of various kinds, knowing some of the common trends and ideas for high-altitude pool designs can be helpful.
At JAL Pools, we’re here to help. We offer the best custom swimming pool selection in all of Salt Lake City, Park City and nearby areas of Utah, with custom pool builders who will attend to every nuance of your swimming pool design and installation. Here are some trends and considerations for high-altitude pool designs, both in general and for specific property types on sloped areas like hills.
General High-Altitude Pool Concepts
Even if you don’t live on any kind of slope or hilly area, anyone living in SLC, Park City or nearby parts of Utah is automatically at high altitude based on sea level comparisons. This means that even some of the more common pool designs might need to be modified slightly for proper function and use at high altitudes.
- Longer swim lanes: Due to decreased oxygen levels, high-altitude swimmers may experience fatigue more quickly than those at lower elevations. For this reason, it’s a good idea to incorporate longer swim lanes in your pool design to accommodate for slower swimming speeds.
- Increased filtration: With higher elevation comes stronger UV radiation and increased evaporation rates, meaning that your pool water can get dirty faster. Consider installing a larger filtration system to keep up with the demands of a high-altitude pool.
- Wind considerations: At higher altitudes, wind speeds tend to be higher and more unpredictable. This can cause issues with water evaporation, so it’s important to consider wind patterns when choosing the location of your pool and its surrounding landscaping.
- Thicker pool covers: Along with potential wind concerns, thicker pool covers can help keep the heat in and prevent too much water from evaporating at high altitudes.
High-Altitude Pools on Sloped Areas
If you’re considering installing a custom swimming pool on a sloped area like a hill or steep backyard, there are some additional factors to keep in mind.
- Pool placement: Depending on the slope and gradient of your property, there may be limited space for your pool. Work closely with our custom pool builders to find the best location that maximizes space and takes advantage of any natural features on your property.
- Retaining walls: In some cases, retaining walls may be necessary for proper construction and support. These can also add visual interest to your high-altitude pool design.
- Erosion control: Water runoff from pools located on sloped areas can cause erosion over time. Our experts at JAL Pools will take steps to prevent this issue and keep your pool and surrounding landscape in top condition.
- Incorporating the slope into design: Instead of fighting against the natural slope of your property, consider incorporating it into your pool design. This could mean building a multi-level pool or adding a waterfall or slide that takes advantage of the natural terrain.
Elevated Pools Within a Property
What about if you want a pool that’s actually elevated above ground level? These types of pools can be stunning and unique, but also come with their own set of considerations.
- Structural support: Elevated pools require additional structural support to bear the weight of the water. This is especially important at high altitudes where wind speeds may be stronger.
- Access: Installing an elevated pool requires careful planning for access to the pool area. This could involve building stairs or a walkway from ground level to the pool, or incorporating a deck or patio area into the design.
- Additional permits: Depending on your local regulations, elevated pools may require additional permits and approvals before installation. Be sure to check with your city or county before beginning any construction.
By taking these factors into consideration and working closely with our custom pool builders at JAL Pools, you can create a stunning and functional high-altitude pool design that will enhance your property for years to come. Don’t let altitude hold you back – contact us today to get started on your dream custom swimming pool, whether you’re in SLC, Park City or any nearby area of Utah! We’re standing by to take your call and get our custom pool builders to work creating the pool you deserve.
