When planning to build a swimming pool, one of the first
decisions you’ll face is whether to go with a traditional pool or opt for a
natural pool. Both offer unique benefits and come with their own set of
considerations in terms of aesthetics, maintenance, environmental impact, and
cost. Here’s a detailed comparison to help you decide which type of pool suits
your lifestyle and property best. For more information check out pool contractors
Natural Pools:
Natural pools, often referred to as swimming ponds, are
designed to mimic the appearance and ecosystem of a natural body of water, such
as a lake or pond. They rely on plants and biological processes to keep the
water clean and clear, and typically incorporate naturalistic landscaping with
rocks, aquatic plants, and organic shapes.
- Visual
Appeal: Natural pools blend seamlessly with the landscape, offering a
more organic, serene look. They often include shallow areas for plants and
rocks to enhance the pond-like feel. - Customizable:
These pools can be designed to suit a variety of environments, from a wild
and rugged aesthetic to a more manicured, garden-like appearance.
Traditional Pools:
Traditional pools, in contrast, have a more geometric and
formal appearance. They are usually built with concrete or fiberglass and come
in a variety of standard shapes like rectangular, oval, or kidney-shaped.
Modern designs may also incorporate infinity edges or custom shapes, but the
overall aesthetic is more polished and controlled.
- Visual
Appeal: Traditional pools tend to be sleek, clean, and highly
customizable in terms of tile, shape, and decking materials. - Customizable:
From tiles to lighting, the customization options are vast, but the
overall design leans more toward the man-made and structured look.
2. Filtration and Maintenance
Natural Pools:
Natural pools use a bio-filtration system to keep the water
clean. This system consists of aquatic plants and microorganisms that naturally
filter out bacteria, algae, and other impurities. The pool is divided into two
zones: the swimming area and a regeneration zone where plants clean the water.
There are no chemicals involved, and the process is entirely natural.
- Filtration:
The water circulates through a plant-based filtration system in a separate
regeneration zone. - Maintenance:
Requires ongoing care of the plants and occasional cleaning of organic
debris, but avoids the use of chemicals. - Water
Clarity: While natural pools can achieve crystal-clear water, they may
become cloudier than traditional pools during seasonal changes or if the
ecosystem becomes unbalanced.
Traditional Pools:
Traditional pools rely on mechanical filtration systems and
chemicals (such as chlorine or salt) to keep the water clean and clear. This
ensures that harmful bacteria and algae are kept at bay.
- Filtration:
Traditional pools use filters (cartridge, sand, or diatomaceous earth) in
combination with chlorine or saltwater systems to sanitize the water. - Maintenance:
Regular maintenance is required to balance chemicals, clean the filters,
and ensure proper circulation. - Water
Clarity: Traditional pools typically offer consistently clear water,
but this comes with the added responsibility of maintaining the chemical
balance.
3. Environmental Impact
Natural Pools:
One of the key benefits of natural pools is their low
environmental impact. By eliminating the need for chemicals and reducing energy
use for filtration, natural pools are considered eco-friendly. The plants used
in the regeneration zone also promote biodiversity by providing a habitat for
local wildlife such as insects, birds, and amphibians.
- Energy
Efficiency: Requires less energy because no mechanical filtration is
necessary. - Chemical-Free:
No harmful chemicals like chlorine, making it a safer option for the
environment and swimmers. - Biodiversity:
Supports local ecosystems, creating a natural habitat for various species.
Traditional Pools:
Traditional pools, on the other hand, have a larger
environmental footprint. The use of chemicals can lead to harmful effects on
the environment, especially when water is drained into the surrounding area.
Additionally, traditional pools require energy for running pumps, heaters, and
filtration systems, contributing to higher energy consumption.
- Energy
Use: Higher energy consumption for running equipment like pumps and
heaters. - Chemical
Use: Reliance on chlorine and other chemicals, which may be harmful to
the environment when released into the soil or water systems. - Water
Use: Traditional pools may require frequent draining and refilling due
to water loss from evaporation and chemical treatments.
4. Health and Safety
Natural Pools:
One of the biggest advantages of a natural pool is the
absence of chemicals like chlorine, which can cause skin irritation, red eyes,
and other health issues for sensitive individuals. The water in a natural pool
is gentle on the skin, and because the ecosystem is balanced, the water is
typically free of harmful pathogens.
- Chemical-Free:
No exposure to chlorine or other pool chemicals, making it a healthier
option for swimmers. - Natural
Filtration: While safe, natural pools may require close monitoring to
ensure that the water remains balanced and free from harmful bacteria.
Traditional Pools:
Chlorine-based traditional pools are generally considered
safe as long as the water is properly balanced. However, long-term exposure to
chlorine and other chemicals can cause irritation for some swimmers,
particularly those with sensitive skin or allergies.
- Chemically
Treated: Requires careful chemical balancing to prevent irritation or
health issues. - Consistent
Sanitation: When maintained correctly, traditional pools offer
consistent protection against harmful bacteria and algae.
5. Cost of Installation and Maintenance
Natural Pools:
Natural pools can be more expensive to install due to the
complex ecosystem they require, including the need for a regeneration zone and
specialized landscaping. However, once built, the maintenance costs are
relatively low, as no chemicals or intensive mechanical filtration systems are
needed.
- Installation
Costs: Typically higher due to the need for custom landscaping,
aquatic plants, and a regeneration zone. - Maintenance
Costs: Lower in the long term due to the lack of chemical treatments
and reduced need for filtration.
Traditional Pools:
Traditional pools generally have lower upfront costs for
installation, especially if you opt for a standard shape and design. However,
maintenance costs can add up over time due to the need for chemicals, energy
consumption, and regular servicing of the filtration system.
- Installation
Costs: Lower initial costs for standard models, though custom designs
can be more expensive. - Maintenance
Costs: Higher ongoing costs due to chemical treatments, electricity
for pumps and heaters, and professional servicing.
6. Customization and Flexibility
Natural Pools:
Natural pools can be highly customizable, but they have
specific design constraints due to the need for a regeneration zone. The design
usually leans toward more organic shapes, and the amount of space required for
plants and the filtration system limits the flexibility of size and shape.
- Shape
and Size Flexibility: Limited by the need for a regeneration zone. - Customization:
Best suited for natural, flowing designs that integrate with the
landscape.
Traditional Pools:
Traditional pools offer more flexibility in terms of size,
shape, and design. You can choose from a wide range of pool shapes, finishes,
and features like infinity edges, waterfalls, or custom lighting to create your
ideal pool.
- Shape
and Size Flexibility: Highly customizable with endless possibilities
for shapes, finishes, and additional features. - Customization:
Can be tailored to modern, geometric, or more artistic designs.
Conclusion: Which Pool is Right for You?
Both natural and traditional pools offer unique advantages,
and the best option depends on your personal preferences, budget, and property
characteristics.
- Choose
a Natural Pool If: - You
value sustainability and want an eco-friendly option. - You
prefer a pool that blends seamlessly with the natural landscape. - You
want a chemical-free swimming experience that promotes biodiversity. - Choose
a Traditional Pool If: - You
prioritize consistent water clarity and low-maintenance solutions. - You
prefer sleek, modern designs with customizable features. - You’re
comfortable with regular chemical maintenance and energy use.
Ultimately, both types of pools can provide endless
enjoyment, but the choice comes down to how you want your pool to function and
fit into your overall lifestyle and outdoor space.