At Custom Outdoors, we are dedicated to creating outdoor living spaces that prioritize both beauty and safety. When it comes to designing and building pools, safety is a non-negotiable aspect of our projects. We firmly believe that certain pool features can compromise safety, and as a result, we refuse to install them. In this blog, we’ll explore the top five things we won’t install in pools due to safety concerns.
1. Gunite Stools Under the Water Surface:
Gunite stools, submerged “stool” style seating made from concrete, may seem like a convenient addition to a pool for relaxation or socializing. However, these underwater features can pose significant safety hazards. Swimmers, especially children, might mistake them for solid footing, leading to accidents or potential entrapment. People swimming underwater with their eyes closed may inadvertently collide with them. Moreover, small children or enthusiastic partyers leaping into the water can accidentally land on them, potentially resulting in severe injuries. In many instances, installed stools void your pool cleaners warranty due to entanglement and impact with the stools. There are many providers of submersible stools that are far safer. For example, Ledge Lounger offers a solution in the form of submersible stools designed to enhance pool safety. If you really want submerged seating, put stools that are engineered to move if they are struck by a person or child, reducing the risk of accidents and injuries.
2. Side Suction Pool Cleaners:
While automatic pool cleaners can simplify maintenance, certain types, such as side suction cleaners, can be problematic. These devices operate by attaching to the pool’s wall and can create strong suction forces, potentially causing entrapment or injury to swimmers. Dogs, wild animals or even children are easily caught by side suction ports and can become trapped inches beneath the water line. We opt for alternative pool cleaning solutions that do not compromise safety.
3. Excessive Gradients Between Deep Ends and Shallow:
Pools with overly steep gradients between deep and shallow ends can be risky, especially for those who enjoy diving into the deep end. The transition zone from the deep end to the shallow end of your pool is meticulously designed to prioritize safety and minimize the risk of accidents. When this transition is too sharp or nonexistent, it heightens the potential for head and neck injuries, as well as an increased risk of drowning due to sudden drop-offs. We ensure that the transition between deep and shallow portions of the pool is gradual and safe, following recommended depth guidelines.
4. Sports Pools:
Sports pools, which are designed for sports like volleyball or basketball, often have irregular depths and features that can increase the risk of accidents. These pools are not suitable for traditional swimming and leisure activities. Although a seemingly good idea for families with active children, they become a novelty when the children get older.
5. “Bench” Transition Steps in Entrance Areas of the Pool:
The entry steps into your pool should ideally comprise three distinct sections: the sun shelf, a bench, and a third step. While the specific height of these risers may be influenced by local building codes, it is crucial to note that they should never exceed a height of 10 inches for safety and ease of use. At Custom Outdoors we opt for clear and well-defined steps for safe entry and exit. High Visibility tile also helps define the steps, reducing the risk of injury.
Prioritizing Safety Above All Else:
At Custom Outdoors, safety is paramount in every pool project we undertake. We firmly believe that by avoiding these potential safety hazards, we can provide our clients with peace of mind and a pool that’s both enjoyable and secure. Our commitment to safety extends to all aspects of our work, from design and construction to maintenance and beyond. When you choose Custom Outdoors for your outdoor living space, you can trust that your safety will always be our top priority.