This or That?

Swimming pool with colorful mosaic tiles on the edge and submerged dark object.

In photo: Saltwater

Chlorine vs. Saltwater Pool

  • Pros:

    • Lower initial cost

    Cons:

    • Harsh on body, skin, and eyes

    • Needs consistent maintenance

  • Pros:

    • Gentler on skin

    • Lower maintenance cost

    Cons:

    • Higher initial cost

Backyard with swimming pool, spa, and patio chairs

In photo: Autocover

Autocover vs. Fence

  • Pros:

    • Prevents buildup of debris

    • Maintains water temperatures

    • No view obstruction

    Cons:

    • Must open and close before / after pool use for safety purposes

  • Pros:

    • Keeps animals, & children away from dangers of pool

    Cons:

    • May obstruct views

Aerial view of a backyard with a kidney-shaped swimming pool, stone patio, lounge chairs, and a red umbrella.

In photo: Freeform

Freeform vs. Rectangular Pool

  • Pros:

    - Custom to your yard/space

    - Softer edges in yard, less rigid

    Cons:

    - More complex if you want an auto-cover

    - Shape defines the type of activity in pool

  • Pros:

    • Good for laps and other swim activity

    • More formal, sleek look

    • Easy installation for auto-cover

    Cons:

    • Yard/space dependent

Backyard with swimming pool, stone patio, deck, and seating area

In photo: Tanning Ledge

Beach entry vs. Tanning ledge

  • Pros:

    • Slope into water creates natural look

    • Easy entrance

    Cons:

    • Will create a shallower pool

  • Pros:

    • Children play zone / Sunbath area

    • Add lounge chairs or other features

    Cons:

    • Size dependent on space

Aerial view of outdoor patio with dining area, seating, rug, fire pit, and plants.

In photo: Pavers

Pavers vs. concrete

  • Pros:

    • Fairly easy and cheaper repair

    • More design options

    • Visually appealing

    Cons:

    • Usually higher upfront cost

    • Can be more difficult to clean

  • Pros:

    • Usually lower upfront cost

    • Easy to install and maintain

    Cons:

    • Requires more repair over time

    • Repair is more complex and expensive

    • More limited in design options

Rectangular backyard swimming pool surrounded by artificial grass and stone pavers.

In photo: Turf

Turf vs. Sod

  • Pros:

    • Green all year

    • Minimal lawn maintenance overall

    Cons:

    • Higher initial cost

    • Less natural feel

  • Pros:

    • Usually cheaper initial cost

    • More natural feel

    Cons:

    • Long term maintenance costs

    • Only green with maintenance / when in season

person holding smartphone with pool maintenance app interface

What is automation?

  • - Monitor your pool from your phone

    • Control pool from anywhere

      • Lights, water features

      • Control pool temperature

    • Real time alerts

      • Monitor pool pH level

      • Monitor pool temperature

    - Compatible with every pool

Outdoor pool with gazebo and red roses in foreground

In photo: Pavilion

Pergola vs. Pavilion

  • Pros:

    • Lets in natural light

    • Usually less expensive

    Cons:

    • Less protection from sun / weather

  • Pros:

    • Comfortable space, rain or shine

    • Can have outdoor features, such as outdoor kitchen or bar

    Cons:

    • Usually more expensive

    • Blocks natural light