Types of swimming pools in Uganda

Try asking any Ugandan and they will tell you that swimming in a pool is one of their favourite pleasures. The country’s proximity to the equator and the increasing number of high-end hotels means that there is no shortage of nice weather and swimming pools in Uganda.

The disadvantage here however is the fact that most of these swimming pools tend to be overcrowded leaving no room for privacy.

If you prefer having a private swimming pool but can’t quite select the type, this article looks at the different types of swimming pools that can be constructed in Uganda.

• Vinyl Pool

This is a pool that is installed in the ground using vinyl.

Vinyl-lined pools are a popular choice for homeowners on a tighter budget. With a metal or plastic frame and supporting panels, they have a sand base, vinyl liner, and vinyl lining. With UV and fungal inhibitors, this pool can live up to 18 years. Because of their non-standard forms and sizes, they are easy to fit into smaller properties and integrate with other landscaping components. Vinyl pool liners have the drawback of being easily punctured, resulting in expensive repairs if the pool fails.

• Concrete pool

Concrete is the traditional building material for in-ground swimming pools because of its strength and durability. There is an excavation first, followed by a steel framework. Plaster is sprayed on top of the concrete before it hardens and becomes impervious to water (which can be re-applied over the years as needed). 

An increasing number of people are turning to tile and pebble aggregate as viable plaster substitutes. Using a reinforced steel and concrete base is a tried and reliable approach for building a pool, and it may be incredibly durable and easily modified to the owner’s demands. But it’s also expensive, time-consuming, and disruptive, and it may not be ready for use for months or even years at a time. Because concrete pools can break when the ground settles or changes, this is another downside.

• Fiberglass Pool

To save money, many people choose to buy a pre-fabricated fibreglass shell and have it lowered into the ground instead of using concrete. Despite the higher cost, this therapy can endure for up to 15 years before it begins to deteriorate. It’s relatively easy to maintain because of its flat surface. It is common for fibreglass pools to crack or fade over time because of their substance. Repaired items often don’t match their original colour, resulting in noticeable flaws.

• Dunk Pool

Dunk pools are also a relative innovation in backyard pool technology. Steel is used in their construction, which makes them incredibly long-lasting and efficient in terms of space. So they can be placed in places that are not suitable for large in-ground or above-ground pools.

 Dunk pools, whether square or rectangular, are ideal for both children who like to splash around and adults who want to incorporate aqua fitness routines into their daily routine. Because of this, they may be built more quickly than other types of pools (and cost less too). They’re also easy to operate, thanks to smartphone apps that let you adjust the temperature and lighting remotely.

• Infinity Pools

Infinity pools are primarily custom-built to showcase a view and have one or more walls with vanishing-edge designs that sit just below the water level. As a result, water might flow over the wall, giving the impression that it knows no boundaries. Pools with a steep drop-off are frequently utilised to showcase stunning vistas of mountains, water, and other natural wonders. Infinity pools are extremely expensive to create and maintain because of their particular design requirements.

• Lap Pools

It’s a wise investment if you’re looking to get in shape by buying a lap pool. This sort of in-ground pool is long, narrow, and generally rectangular because it is specifically designed for swimming laps. Small yards are well-suited to lap pools because of their compact footprint. Allowing swimmers to swim at least 40 feet without having to turn frequently is a common feature of lap pools. A lap pool’s width might be as little as 8 feet for a lone participant. Like other in-ground pools, this one has certain building issues to bear in mind.

• Shipping Container Pool

For a more recent in-ground pool design, metal shipping containers upcycled for use as a pool are used. Compared to an in-ground pool, it’s less expensive and some types are portable so you can take it with you if your home changes. 

They can be installed above ground or partially submerged under concrete or gravel, according to the owner’s preference. It’s not uncommon to find options like side panels with clear viewing windows and hot tub walls. 

Shipping container pools do not have structural walls that could lead to a pool failure, but their corrugated walls and wood floor also have the potential to rust if they are not made appropriately.

Swim Spas

Spa pools are another option for those looking to get in some exercise while they’re at it. In a swim spa, you can swim against a steady stream of water, combining the benefits of both a swimming pool and a spa. Some of the smallest swim spas are just 12 feet long. Because the swimmer isn’t going anywhere, it is possible to have a smaller pool. They can also be heated so that they can be used as both a spa and a swimming pool.

Hot Tubs and Spas

Spas and hot tubs are tiny heated pools used for leisure or hydrotherapy. On the other hand, a house spa is an in-ground type built alongside in-ground pools. Less expensive to install and maintain than other pools due to their lower size, hot tubs and spas are ideal for smaller spaces. Their small size restricts their utilisation.

Conclusion

Before you spend money on a pool in your backyard, think about why you want one and who will use it. An in-ground pool that has been conventionally designed may be too large for your needs.

Other than that, swimming pools are a great investment in homes especially when you stay in a country like Uganda. For most of the year it’s shinning and having a swimming pool in your backyard would save the day.