If you are considering swimming pool design, one thing that will make the process go smoothly is learning the vocabulary and terms that are commonly used in the industry. Some might relate to your situation, while others might not, but you’ll be far more informed if you browse through the glossary below.
- Above-ground pool- With this type of swimming pool, there is no need for excavation as there would be with an inground pool. The pool sits on top of the ground instead.
- Algae- Algae is a living organism that can become a real nuisance in a swimming pool, but can be avoided with proper care and the right chemicals, including algaecides to control its ability to colonize.
- Baja shelf- A ledge that was planned into the design of a swimming pool that permits you to lounge or tan while usually being partially in the water. Also called a tanning ledge.
- Beach entry- Typical swimming pools are accessed with steps or ladder, but with beach entry, there is a slopped entry area much like walking into the water at the beach, hence the name. This can also be called a zero entry pool.
- Decking- The surface around the pool, generally made of pavers, concrete, or another material.
- Excavation- Removal of dirt and other materials to make room for an inground swimming pool.
- Filtration system- The system utilizing filters and other equipment to remove contaminants from the water to keep it safe for swimming.
- Gunite- A material used in pool design that is a mixture of sand, cement, and water that is sprayed onto the pool form to create the shape.
- Infinity pool- A modern swimming pool design that gives the illusion that the water doesn’t end. Also referred to as a vanishing edge pool. If all sides have a spillover, it is considered a zero edge pool.
- Kidney pool- When a pool has a shape that looks like a kidney bean, it is said to be kidney shaped.
- Main drain- The drain of a pool where the water leaves to go through the pump and filtration system before being returned to the pool.
- Overflow drain- To keep a pool from overflowing during heavy rain or when forgetting to shut off the water when adding some, there is an overflow drain that will divert the excess to a safe place away from the home.
- Pool cover- There are a variety of options for covering your pool when not in use depending on what you want to accomplish.
- Pump- The piece of equipment that keeps the water circulating while sending through the filtration system.
- Skimmer- Floating debris, such as fallen leaves, is trapped in a skimmer basket where it can be easily removed before it reaches the pump and filtration system.
- Vacuum- Used to clean dirt from the bottom and sides of the swimming pool manually; an alternative is automatic pool cleaning equipment.
If you would like to know more about swimming pool design services in the Mooresville, North Carolina area, reach out to us at Lake Norman Signature Pools & Patios. We will make certain that all your questions are addressed to your complete satisfaction, including explaining any terms you are not familiar with. We want your experience to be exceptional and will work diligently to that end. Contact us today to get started.