How to build a decorative pool and how to decorate it?

The best inflatable pools

This type of pool is more widespread among users. They are easy to use and store, lightweight, durable, and, if necessary, quite roomy. Some models are suitable not only for splashing, but also for full swimming. We offer a selection of the most successful, in our opinion, solutions in this category.

4 Intex Easy Set 28130/56420

Intex Easy Set 28130/56420

This model will be an excellent solution for a summer residence. It is quite compact, but at the same time roomy. The diameter of the pool is 3.66 meters, which makes it easy to accommodate the whole family. Of course, you won't be able to swim. But it’s easy to cool down on a hot day. The maximum depth is 76 centimeters, the maximum volume is 5621 liters. The bottom is soft and inflatable.

The Intex Easy Set 28130/56420 pool has received many reviews from satisfied users. According to them, there is simply no better solution for seasonal use on a summer cottage. It pleases with both volumes and a very reasonable price. At the same time, the owners note that the material from which the pool is made is quite durable and difficult to damage, even with some effort. Of the minuses: lack of a water pump and bedding. Some would like to complement the package with an awning and a sun canopy.

3 Intex Easy Set 28144/56930

Intex Easy Set 28144/56930

In the penultimate place of our rating is the smallest (with the exception of children's, of course) pool. But you shouldn’t discount this model, because thanks to its small dimensions it can be placed even in a fairly small area. In addition, it costs several times less than its giant competitors. Features of Easy Set include:

• Round shape with a diameter of 366 cm. Depth is 90 cm.
• Light weight - only 12.9 kg per package (easy to transport).
• The delivery set does not include an awning, a water pump and a deck for the pool, so if necessary, you will have to purchase everything separately.

2 Bestway Oval Fast Set 56153

Bestway Oval Fast Set 56153

The pool, located in the second position of our rating, fell just short of the top. And this is not just a beautiful turn of phrase, but a harsh, so to speak, reality. Bestway Oval Fast Set is really only a couple of liters smaller, a few kilograms heavier and a little more expensive than a thousand rubles. What's special about it?

• The volume of water contained is 16.6 cubic meters.
• Availability of a cartridge filter for rough water purification.
• There is a mat under the pool, which allows you to install it even on a not entirely flat surface.
• The productivity of the complete pump is 3028 l/h, which is almost 2 times less than that of the leader in the rating.

1 Intex Oval Frame 28194/54934/54432

Intex Oval Frame 28194/54934/54432

And here is the leader of our rating. Despite the apparent similarity with its competitors, this model really deserves first place. And it’s all about not only the size and quality materials, but also the thoughtfulness of the accompanying accessories, thanks to which the model is easy to install and maintain. The features are worth mentioning.

• The largest dimensions: 610x366 cm with a depth of 122 cm - even an adult can dive in this one.
• The presence of the most productive pump in the rating (5678 l/hour), thanks to which filling the pool takes quite a bit of time.
• There is a ladder that makes it easy to get in and out of the pool.
• The kit includes an awning that will protect the water from leaves and other debris.

How to decorate?

Decorating a decorative pool is the prerogative of the owner. As a rule, they imitate natural reservoirs in different climatic zones.

The most successful design is one that is as close as possible to the conditions of the region - this way the garden pond looks appropriate at any time of the year and does not take on an awkward appearance (for example, artificial palm trees among snowdrifts).

Photos of decorative pools can be seen below:

The best children's inflatable pools

There is no greater happiness for children than splashing around in warm water on a hot sunny day. For small users, manufacturers offer an incredible number of products of various colors and configurations. After all, not only the availability of water is important to them, but also the play component. In addition, swimming pools for children should be as safe as possible. We offer a selection of the best, in our opinion, proposals in this direction.

4 Bestway Covered Hippo 52218

Bestway Covered Hippo 52218

If the purpose of the pool is not to entertain a large number of children, then be sure to pay attention to this model. It is not only safe in all respects, but also has an interesting design in the form of a cheerful hippopotamus. The diameter of the water bowl is only 112 cm, it holds no more than 40 liters of water. In this case, the depth is no more than 15 centimeters. Everything you need for a fun and safe water adventure for your little one.

The design does not provide for a canopy or awning, but thanks to the interesting design it is possible to protect the child from the scorching sun. All you have to do is turn the pool the right way. The soft inflatable bottom will add comfort. Disadvantages: small capacity, no more than two kids can splash around, relatively low mobility due to weight (13.8 kg). Otherwise, the Bestway Covered Hippo pool deserves its place among the best children's solutions.

3 Intex Aquarium 58480

Intex Aquarium 58480

Second to last in the ranking, but far from the worst pool. Yes, there are no all kinds of slides and sprayers, but it costs less than two thousand rubles! The design also deserves attention - it’s not just multi-colored stripes of fabric, but a rather interesting pattern, which children will also spend a lot of time looking at. The features of Intex Aquarium include:

• A completely inflatable body, including the bottom - such a pool will keep its shape better, and the soft bottom will reduce the risk of injury.
• Sufficient depth for older children to dive.
• The smallest weight in the package is only 3.37 kg.

2 Intex Mushroom Baby 57114

Intex Mushroom Baby 57114

One of the best solutions for the youngest lovers of water activities. He is truly perfect in every way. Firstly, minimal weight and ease of assembly. Together with packaging, the pool weighs only 1.5 kg. It is convenient to transport and install. Moreover, parents can take the model with them and change the location as many times as they like. Secondly, there is a canopy from the sun; the child will be protected from heat stroke, which is also important. Thirdly, the pool has a soft inflatable bottom, and its depth is only 13 cm. Even the smallest child can have a fun and safe time.

Parents will also be pleased with the price of Intex Mushroom Baby. It is the most inexpensive in our selection. The only drawback, if it can be considered such, is that the model is suitable for playing with children under 3–4 years old. The rest will be small and cramped (model diameter 101 cm). The soft bottom also requires a flat surface for installation.

1 Intex Rainbow Ring Play Center 57453

Intex Rainbow Ring Play Center 57453

Finally, the first line of our rating is occupied by a rather interesting pool from the already well-known. This model is not as monstrous as we would like, but it still has a slide, albeit a small one, as well as several interesting game elements. In addition, thanks to the shallow depth, even 3-4 year old children can play safely in this pool. Finally, a price that will not be burdensome for parents. Other features include the following.

• The hard bottom of the pool allows it to be installed even on an uneven surface, and children won’t just pierce it.
• There is a water sprinkler.
• Very light package weight (only 7.4 kg) - easy to assemble and transport to a new location.

What it is?

A decorative pool is an artificial reservoir that imitates a natural lake or small pond. It is installed open to create the most natural look.
As a rule, such a pond has a purely decorative purpose, although some owners use such bowls for their intended purpose (for swimming and active recreation). Many users breed fish in such pools and add poultry to them.

The specifics of a decorative pool require proper design of not only the bowl itself, but also the entire surrounding area, creating an imitation of a wild natural reservoir.
Landscape design techniques are used here, stone boulders and sand mounds are installed, and plants are planted. Attention! In pursuit of decorative possibilities, one should not forget about safety. Creating wild landscaping can cause children or pets to fall into the water. This must be foreseen in advance in order to protect your household and pets as much as possible.

The best frame pools

These pools belong to the category of collapsible mobile structures. They are easy to store and do not require much space. At the same time, they are more demanding to install; you cannot cope with the installation of a frame model alone. This is the option that is installed at the beginning of the season and removed at the end; unlike an inflatable one, it is not so easy to carry with you, but in general it is possible. We present to your attention the best, in our opinion, pools in the current category.

4 Intex Metal Frame 28200/56997

Intex Metal Frame 28200/56997

Those who want to buy a good-quality, spacious pool, but at the same time save money, can evaluate Intex Metal Frame 28200/56997. It has a round shape and a diameter of 305 cm. Taking into account the depth of 76 centimeters, the model will be a good solution for family use in the country. The biggest plus is the price of the pool; the owner will get excellent water entertainment for only 5–6 thousand. The design is easy to assemble; if desired and with the proper skill, you can do it alone. Despite the budget option, the kit includes a pump with a filter.

The owners claim that the material from which the base is made is very durable. The only thing they recommend is to use a pool stand to strengthen the bottom. And immediately buy a cover or awning to avoid excess debris. Intex Metal Frame has maximum positive reviews and is very popular among users. He deserves a place in our ranking of the best.

3 Summer Escapes P20-1252

Summer Escapes P20-1252

If you want to install a spacious and deep diving pool on your property, then be sure to pay attention to this model. The diameter of the round structure is 3.66 meters, and the depth is as much as 132 cm. This is the largest figure among products in the current category. The volume is 11900 liters, which is very substantial and will take a lot of time to fill. But such a pool can comfortably accommodate a group of adults. In addition, users note the opportunity to buy a thicket without additional accessories, which will reduce costs.

The owners highlight the thin bottom as a disadvantage. For long-term use, the site for installation of the structure should be prepared. Otherwise, the frame model deserves its place among the best, especially considering its very affordable price. If necessary, owners can adapt accessories from previous pools.

2 Bestway Steel Pro Frame 56088

Bestway Steel Pro Frame 56088

Of course, Steel Pro Frame can be called compact only in relation to other frame pools from this rating. Nevertheless, this model is suitable for those who have only a small area for installation. By the way, the depth has not been affected, so you can safely dive in this “baby”. What else is special about this pool?

• The volume of water is smaller than that of competitors - a little less people will fit, but maintenance costs will also be lower.
• The presence of an awning to protect the water from debris. Allows you to clean water or replace it much less often.
• The included pump is not efficient enough. When using it, you will have to spend almost 5+ hours pumping the pool.

1 Intex Metal Frame 28236/54946

Intex Metal Frame 28236/54946

And again, the model from Intex took the first position, albeit with a minimal margin. The main advantage of the model is quality. Yes, the price of the pool is a little more expensive because of this, but it’s worth it. Other advantages include:

• High performance of the included pump (3785 l/hour) - to fill a volume of almost 17 cubic meters, even it has to work for about 4 hours.
• The presence of a bedding under the pool, which protects the bottom from cutting through, for example, sharp stones.
• The set includes a ladder that makes it easier to use the pool.

Construction stages

1. The construction of any in-depth pool bowl begins with choosing a location and marking the pit. The walls of the pit are dug at an angle towards the outside.
2. If the bowl is designed with protruding sides, then you need to mark its base. Level and remove the top layer of fertile soil.
3. Preparing the pit. A cushion is placed at the bottom of the pit in layers of sand and crushed stone. The layers are compacted.
4. A waterproofing material in the form of a film is laid on the soil. The upper edge is secured with stones.
5. The stones are laid at an angle on the wall of the bowl. They are attached to each other on a sand-cement base with water-repellent properties.
6. For a more durable structure, formwork is made from reinforcement and boards.
7. The necessary mortgages are laid for drainage, lighting, etc.

The best hard pools

This is the strongest pool option. Often such bowls are dug into the ground, thereby creating conditions for all-season use. Since the climate in our country does not allow the latter, the structure is idle during the winter season. At the same time, manufacturers use materials that are resistant to temperature changes and allow the pool not to be dismantled during cold weather. This model is stronger, more wear-resistant, spacious and has a wide range of accessories. However, you should be prepared for the fact that the price for such pools is the highest.

4 Atlantic Pools Esprit-Big (7.3 × 1.32 m)

Atlantic Pools Esprit-Big (7.3 × 1.32 m)

The largest and most expensive pool in our rating. It has an oval shape and a prefabricated design. This pool is perfect for recreational swimming due to its dimensions: 7.3 meters long and 3.7 meters wide. The depth of the bowl is 135 centimeters, which will appeal to divers. Installation of the model requires about 50 square meters of free space, so it is not suitable for every summer cottage.

The model has excellent equipment: ladder, water pump, screamer, sand filter. The pool can easily withstand temperatures down to -20 during the conservation period. The downside is the cost. But it should be taken into account that for this money the owner will receive a model in which two people can easily compete in swimming speed. For this reason, we have no hesitation in ranking the Atlantic Pools Esprit-Big among the best rigid pools.

3 Bestway Steel Wall Hydrium Poseidon 56574/56285

Bestway Steel Wall Hydrium Poseidon 56574/56285

This model, in fact, does not stand out much from its competitors. More? No, maybe a little deeper with a similar diameter. Maybe it's cheaper? And here's a miss - even a little more expensive. Nevertheless, this model also has a right to exist.

• The depth is almost 15 cm greater when compared with models of the same diameter.
• There is a ladder for more convenient use.

2 Azuro 400DL

Azuro 400DL

Most hard pools have one main drawback - they do not tolerate temperature changes well and will certainly not survive a harsh winter. The model from Azuro is an exception. Thanks to the special body materials, this pool can be safely left undisassembled during the winter. Here are some other advantages the 400DL has.

• The possibility of digging into the ground is both more aesthetically pleasing than a prefabricated pool sticking out on the surface, and easier than digging and arranging a full-fledged reservoir.
• The presence of a skimmer - a device that floats on the surface and collects debris.
• The presence of a sand filter that produces high-quality water purification.

1 Bestway Hydrium Splasher 56386

Bestway Hydrium Splasher 56386

This model will delight the user with its impressive volume, excellent equipment and affordable price. For 28–29 thousand rubles, the owner will receive a strong bowl with a diameter of 4.6 meters and a depth of 90 centimeters. This pool can easily accommodate a group of adults. The bowl includes a ladder, a mat, a repair kit and a water pump with good performance (2006 liters per hour). But keep in mind that it will take at least 6 hours to completely fill the pool.

The structure is strong and stable, the walls are made of solid sheets of steel 0.4 mm thick. It is suitable for digging in and does not require concreting or additional preparation of the hole. Quickly assembles and disassembles if necessary. The drain valve allows you to attach a garden hose and drain the water to any convenient place. In our opinion, the Bestway Hydrium Splasher pool is without a doubt one of the best in its category in most respects.

Where and approximately at what price can I order the service?

Pool lining can be performed by any specialized organization working in this profile. You can contact ordinary builders, but there is always a risk of contacting inexperienced people who have not previously performed such work.

The average cost of lining a bowl is from 5,000 rubles. per square meter , which often makes you think about finishing it yourself. In this case, all costs will be charged only to the purchase of the material, which is also not cheap.

For example, marble tiles will cost from 2800 rubles/m2 to 8600 rubles/m2 (depending on the size, thickness and quality of the surface). Granite cladding costs about the same.

About filters

Skimmer filter for small pool

Water costs money, but the pool requires cubes and dozens of cubes, which are also unrealistic to drain every day/every other day. Pouring bleach into water is dangerous to health; in modern swimming pools, the water is disinfected by filtration. According to its method, pools are divided into overflow and skimmer. In the first, water continuously flows through a grate around the perimeter of the tank into a gutter, is pumped through a regeneration system and flows back into the bowl. Secondly, water is collected by a water intake, a skimmer, floating on a flexible hose.

The skimmer system is quite effective at a lower cost in small pools, which is what we need. For very small ones, up to 30-40 cubic meters, the entire water treatment system is combined into one device, also called a skimmer, see fig.

Aquarium pump

Branded skimmers cost hundreds, or even thousands, of “killed raccoons” (cu), but an equally effective homemade pool filter can be obtained from an aquarium pump, see fig. left. Now pumps are produced with a capacity of up to 2500 l/hour, and for a bowl of 10 cubic meters 1200 is enough. Moreover, the pumps are equipped with an outlet nozzle with an air injector, which will improve cleaning, and a tilt-and-turn deflector, which allows you to direct the stream where needed.

The actual cleaning is carried out with standard cartridges for skimmers with a caliber of 50 or 60 mm at the rate of 1 for every full or incomplete 3 cubic meters of water. They last for a month, and they are placed in a propylene or PVC pipe of the appropriate diameter, mounted on the suction pipe (vertical in the figure) of the pump. Water is taken 20-30 cm from the bottom.

However, if performed incorrectly, such a device can be deadly. Therefore, remember:

1. You cannot pull the electric cable with the socket to the pool; you need to lengthen the pump cord and extend it into the room;
2. The splice of the standard cord and extension cord is carried out in accordance with all electrical safety rules and is additionally insulated with 3-4 layers of heat-shrinkable tube, each subsequent overlaps the previous one by at least 40 mm in both directions;
3. The aquarium pump is submersible, the motor in it is cooled by sea water, so even short-term drainage is unacceptable, it will lead to immediate damage to the pump and a power failure;
4. The pump is installed strictly vertically;
5. A homemade filter must be turned on through a separate RCD (residual current device) of no more than 6.3 A. It is best to install an outlet for the filter with a built-in magnetoelectronic RCD.

Basic models of mini swimming tanks

Most often, a small pool in a country house can be made from:

• ready-made inflatable models;
• ready-made frame models;
• concrete;
• wood;
• car tires;
• old cast iron bathtub;
• metal containers or containers;
• reinforced concrete ring (used for wells);
• finished composite bowl.

You can use almost any materials that you find at the dacha. The main thing to remember is the purpose of the pool - so that at least an adult can take a dip there.

Mini metal pool

A variety of mini structures for swimming according to the shape of the structure

Small pools can be of different shapes: rectangle, circle or oval. The shape is very important, since different features and characteristics of the pond for the dacha depend on it.

Rectangular shape

Rectangular structures have a rather attractive appearance. This form is perfect for a small dacha, as it helps save space. The disadvantage is that with this form, the pressure does not apply evenly to all walls, and such a structure must be strengthened if we are talking about frame models. Debris may collect in corners.

Rectangular mini-pool

From available means, such a pond can be created using concrete, a metal container, wood or a composite bowl.

Round form

The round shape is considered more reliable, as it ensures uniform water pressure in all directions. Thanks to this, you can create a deeper or more voluminous pond. Rounded walls reduce the likelihood of injury to children.

You can create such a pool at your dacha with your own hands using a concrete ring, tire, metal container or concrete.

Oval shape

The most optimal shape, which contains all the advantages of round and rectangular models. You can swim comfortably in such a pond. At the same time, the absence of corners helps distribute water pressure and prevents debris from becoming trapped.

Mini-pool from the bathroom

To create such a pool in the countryside, an old bathtub is suitable. You can use a composite bowl, wood or concrete.

Video description

Pool water purification:

Preparing for winter

This is the most important element of pool care. Before the winter cold, seasonal structures are disassembled, thoroughly washed, dried and folded according to the instructions. After this, the pool is stored in a room with a positive temperature.

All-season models can also be disassembled and stored until the summer, or “mothballed” in their place. The preservation process begins even before the air temperature drops below +13 degrees. It starts with draining some of the water. Leave a little water at the bottom of the bowl, otherwise the soil may damage the film. After this, the walls of the pool and all equipment in it are washed. Chemical compounds are added to the water. Next, plastic bottles or canisters are distributed along the bottom of the structure. The pool prepared for wintering is covered with a frost-resistant awning.

Types of frames

Pools are manufactured with one of two frame options. It can be made from rods or from cast modules (sheet). In the first case, the frame looks like a huge hoop with vertical stiffeners. It is assembled from strong tubular rods. After filling the pool, the structure acquires excellent stability and becomes very durable. Models of large “reservoirs” are equipped with side steps.

Rod frame pool Source esbitech.ru

The sheet frame is assembled from metal or plastic modules connected to each other by special fasteners. The inside of the bowl is lined with a PVC film cover. This type of pool is characterized by higher strength and durability. In addition, they are easier to clean. They cost more than rod ones, but their popularity is very high.

It is worth noting that there are also stationary frame pools that are made of composite materials or plastic. They are a modern alternative to concrete structures, but are not portable, collapsible structures.

Sheet frame pool Source wmsafehouse.org

Modern Design Styles

Most often he uses four directions for decorating a pool:

• Classical. Typically, materials such as paint and decorative plaster are used.
• Art Deco. Colored mosaics and reflective surfaces are actively used.
• Ethno. The space is designed based on the traditions of a particular people.
• Country style. Natural materials are used: natural stone, wood, living plants.

You can put a TV and sun loungers near the pool

A swimming pool in the yard will save you from the heat

See alsoUsing stencils in the interior: photos, varieties

Equipment

The complete set of the pool includes:

• frame;
• PVC cover;
• filters;
• cleaning devices;
• pump;
• canopy;
• substrate;
• stairs.

Inexpensive pool models are usually sold with reduced equipment. Everything that is missing from them then has to be purchased separately. As a result, the total cost may be even higher than the price of a fully equipped pool.

Components for a frame pool Source intexmarket.ru