Why Swimming Pools Are Still a Staple in Australian Life
There’s no doubt that swimming pools are a staple in Australian life. But despite the fact that nine in 10 Australians live within a 20-minute drive of public swimming facilities, there’s still an inequity when it comes to access and quality of facilities.
One of the key factors is funding, with inner city councils typically providing more than double the number of public swimming pools as suburban ones. This is partly due to the cost of the additional infrastructure required for larger, urbanised sites and to the fact that the pool needs to be heated, which adds to the operating costs.
It’s also because of the high price tag of building an indoor pool, with many builders charging more than the minimum required by law. But a recent survey of swimming pool owners found that most felt their pools were worth the investment. The survey also highlighted the benefits of a properly maintained pool, which included better health and fitness, as well as reduced running and maintenance costs.
With that in mind, it’s no wonder that Australian families are continuing to invest in their pools, with organisers of the Sydney Pool & Spa Expo claiming a significant increase in visitation in February of this year, which they say was in line with expectations. The Victorian show saw a similar figure.
Whether it’s an indoor or outdoor pool, the design and build process can take a long time, depending on several factors. The climate, the size of the pool and its complexity all have an impact on how long a project will take to complete. For instance, working in extreme heat can slow down the curing of concrete and increase the likelihood of cracking or leaks. This is why it’s often best to choose a cooler season for your pool installation.
Aside from the Sydney Rock Pool, you’ll find plenty of other stunning beaches where you can swim in crystal clear water – and even catch some sun. For example, at Coogee you’ll find Wylie’s Baths, a beautiful tidal ocean pool built into the cliffs by Henry Alexander Wylie – a champion long distance swimmer. Or, head to Maroubra and you’ll discover Mahon Pool, a harbourside tidal pool set amid exposed rock platforms that provide a sense of seclusion.
Another factor that can affect the overall cost of a pool is the type of tiles used. For example, more premium options like glass and mosaic tiles will increase the price, as will intricate patterns and designs. The slope of the site can also make a difference, as flat sites generally don’t incur extra charges but may require extra concrete to be added for stability. As such, you should always ensure your chosen contractor fully explains the costs involved upfront. This will ensure that you get the best value pool for your money.