An infinity edge is among the most striking features pools can have. It’s one of the most sought-after characteristics people look for when they search for hotels and the top request for a lot of pool owners.
And while building an infinity pool in your backyard is a fantastic option, there are a few things you should consider before you commit. In this article, you’ll learn about some of the basics of infinity pools, how they work, and what it takes to get one installed in your backyard.
How Do Infinity Pools Work?
At its most basic level, an infinity pool is one with a section of the wall that’s designed to be exactly at the water level. In contrast, most pools have walls that clear the water level and essentially create a very large tub of water.
Since one or more of the walls are exactly at water level, this feature allows the water to fall over the wall and create a waterfall. When seen from inside the pool, the water falling away creates the illusion that the pool doesn’t have an edge but goes on into the distance, lending it the name “infinity pool.”
Also called a negative edge pool and vanishing edge pool, this type of pool needs an additional basin underneath the edge that’s flush with the water level. The basin catches the overflowing water and allows it to recirculate and continue the effect.
But that’s only the construction aspect of an infinity edge pool. Much of the work comes down to designing the pool in a way that allows the illusion to work. If the pool isn’t installed on a natural slope, it won’t have the same effect regardless of the viewing angle.
And that leads us to the next point.
Why is Building an Infinity Pool So Expensive?
Infinity pools cost more than regular one for several reasons, but it’s often less expensive than you might think. Usually, the infinity pool design will add around 30 to 50% to the cost. However, that’s a rough estimate since a lot of the design might come down to the area around the pool. If there’s substantial landscaping work that needs to be done, the costs can go up quite a bit.
On the flip side, if your property already has a naturally welcoming environment for a negative edge pool, the costs will be more manageable.
In terms of engineering, the items that add the most cost to the pool are the catch basin for water overflow and a specialized pump system. Without the unique pump, the water won’t circulate correctly, and the entire purpose of the pool is lost.
Are Infinity Pools Dangerous?
The infinity pool design is no more dangerous than any other pool. Many people assume that the lack of a protruding wall and the water’s natural pull as it falls over it create a hazard. But nothing could be further from the truth. Even though it appears to not have an edge, that’s a simple illusion, and the pool’s wall is very present and will stop you from falling over.
Moreover, the force of the water falling over is minimal and presents no hazard. In short, building an infinity pool in your backyard is totally safe.
Things To Consider When Installing an Infinity Pool
As stated earlier, infinity pool installation is a little more complex and involved than a regular pool, and at this point, you have a good idea why. With that in mind, you should go into the decision of whether to install one or not with a few things in mind.
Remember that you can also leave the planning and design to our experts at Florida Pool and Patio. Give us a call, and we’d be happy to help you decide on the best way to go about installing your negative edge pool and how to utilize your property best.
How to Build an Infinity Edge Pool in Your Yard
The main problems you might run into when installing an infinity pool mostly have to do with the type of property you have. If your yard is large and flat, the effect of the pool is more difficult to achieve.
Installing an infinity edge pool in Florida is usually challenging for that very reason. But the right team of designers and installers can work around even the flattest of yards.
If you have a sloping yard, even with a few feet of elevation, that will significantly simplify the situation and reduce your costs. And if you have a yard overlooking the water, lining up the vanishing edge with the open waves will give you a priceless view and add major value to your home.
An Infinity Pool Design Adds More Than a Great View
Also, consider that infinity pools are about more than just looks. The design also adds a noticeable gurgling waterfall effect that will add another dimension to the mix. Most people enjoy the sound of running water, and that’s why waterfalls are so popular in pools.
However, if you prefer an oasis of silence in your backyard, the sound might present a challenge. Additionally, infinity pools have additional maintenance costs on top of those that a regular pool does.
Water evaporation happens much more quickly in an infinity edge pool, so it will go through the water faster and likely need more chemicals to maintain the right maintenance levels. And, the separate vacuum line and pump system will also add some dollars to your monthly electricity bill, depending on how much use you give the pool.
How To Build an Infinity Pool on a Budget
If you don’t want to commit to a major installation and you have some of the fundamental landscape requirements in place, you can get away with spending a little less money on an infinity edge.
The infinity-edge effect doesn’t require one entire side of the pool to work. You can select a smaller portion of the pool to have the vanishing edge, such as a corner. You’ll still get the basic effect without having to add such a large amount of money to your budget.
The Importance of a Competent Installation
As impressive as they are, infinity pools are one of the most challenging designs to get right. Without an experienced crew of installation professionals and designers, you could easily overpay for shoddy work.
When you’re choosing your installation partner, ask to see pictures of their previous. You can also ask if there are any pool owners they previously worked with that you could speak with about the installation experience and the pool’s quality.
Building an Infinity Edge Pool That Makes You Proud
You should now have all the tools you need to decide if an infinity pool is right for your yard and to get it installed just the way you want. When you’re ready to start, contact us to get a free quote for your project.
We’ll make sure to explain everything that needs to be done to get the pool of your dreams.
What is it about infinity pools that you love most? Why do you think an infinity pool would make a great addition to your yard? Leave us a comment right now with your response!
