The Evolution of Backyard Pools: Say Goodbye to Diving Boards and Hello to Modern Alternatives
Are diving boards becoming a relic of the past in backyard pool designs? Over the last decade, there’s been a noticeable shift away from traditional diving boards, as homeowners embrace innovative and luxurious alternatives that redefine the concept of a backyard oasis.
Join us as we explore why diving boards are fading into obscurity and discover the exciting world of modern pool designs that are taking their place.
5 Reasons Diving Boards Are Going Extinct
Here are 5 reasons why diving boards are no longer desirable for pool owners and have lost popularity over the years:
1. Insurance Coverage Issues
Sometimes, having a pool with a diving board can increase homeowner’s insurance rates since there is more risk of injuries and liability for pools with a diving board than for pools without.
While the rate increases vary depending on the policy, expect to pay more for insurance if you add a diving board to your pool installation. Or expect your insurance provider to cancel your coverage.
2. Installation Logistics — Requires a Lot of Real Estate
To install a pool with a diving board, pools must be deep enough and long enough to dive in safely. Diving pools require a deep end for the diving zone and are built with a sloping bottom that leads to the deep end.
The slope at the bottom of the pool must also be at a safe enough distance from the diving board so divers won’t risk hitting their heads on the pool floor.
Diving pools typically need to be 38 to 39 feet long, which takes up a lot of backyard space.
Along with taking up too much valuable backyard space, diving pools also take more time to install and are overall more expensive.
3. Takes Up Usable Pool Area
The usable pool area is the space in a pool where swimmers can stand safely with their heads above water and their feet touching the pool floor. The usable area is also known as the play area since swimmers can easily play water games, like pool volleyball, without the need to tread water.
Most pool owners and their families spend about 75% of their time in the usable pool area, and only 25% of their time in the deep end. And since only 33% of a diving pool is usable pool area (with 33% being the slope area and 33% being the diving area), that means pool owners would spend the majority of their time in only one-third of the space.
So it doesn’t make sense for pool owners to waste usable pool area space to accommodate a diving board. Instead, they could maximize the amount of usable pool area and have more space for playing in the pool.
4. They’re Not As Good As They Used To Be
Modern diving boards prioritize safety over bounce, resulting in stiffer, less dynamic designs. This shift has led to diminished aesthetic appeal and reduced excitement for diving enthusiasts.
5. Dangerous/Unsafe
While diving into pools is fun, it can also be dangerous for those who are inexperienced, notably for children. And since the whole point of having a pool in the backyard is to relax and enjoy yourself, the last thing many pool owners want is to worry about someone getting hurt.
So to avoid the added stress, pool owners are opting for safer pools that won’t be as high-risk for injuries.
10 Diving Board Alternatives for Your Pool
While diving boards may be falling out of favor, there’s no shortage of exciting alternatives to enhance your pool experience.Here are luxury pool features that make for excellent alternatives to diving boards.
1. Faux Diving Rocks
Perhaps a safer diving board alternative, diving rocks are both decorative and fun to use for launching yourself into the pool. They serve as decorative focal points in your pool area while providing a safe platform for launching into the water. Crafted from durable materials such as fiberglass or concrete, these rocks come in various shapes, sizes, and textures to complement your pool’s aesthetic.
Pros:
- Enhances visual appeal: Faux diving rocks add a naturalistic element to your pool landscape, blending seamlessly with surrounding vegetation.
- Safety: Unlike traditional diving boards, diving rocks have a lower profile and eliminate the risk of injuries associated with springy platforms.
- Customization options: Choose from a wide range of designs to match your pool’s style, from rugged boulders to sleek, modern formations.
Cons:
- Space requirements: Diving rocks require adequate depth in the pool to ensure safe diving, which may limit installation options in shallower pools.
- Maintenance: Regular cleaning is necessary to prevent algae growth and maintain the rock’s appearance. Pressure washing and scrubbing may be required to remove stubborn stains.
Maintenance Tips:
- Routinely inspect the diving rocks for cracks or damage and repair as needed to prevent safety hazards.
- Clean the surface of the rocks with a mild detergent and soft brush to remove dirt and debris.
- Apply a protective sealant to maintain the rock’s color and texture and prolong its lifespan.
2. Slides
Pool slides offer an exhilarating way to enter the water, with options ranging from simple straight slides to elaborate spiral designs. Constructed from fiberglass or acrylic, slides can be customized to match your pool’s design aesthetic and provide hours of entertainment for swimmers of all ages.
Pros:
- Entertainment value: Pool slides add an element of fun and excitement to your pool area, encouraging active play and adventure.
- Versatility: Slides come in various configurations, including straight, curved, and spiral, allowing you to choose the option that best fits your space and preferences.
- Safety features: Many modern slides incorporate safety features such as enclosed stairways, handrails, and non-slip surfaces to minimize the risk of accidents.
Cons:
- Space requirements: Slides require sufficient deck space and clearance around the pool to ensure safe operation and prevent obstruction.
- Installation complexity: Installing a pool slide may involve structural modifications to the pool deck and plumbing systems, increasing installation time and costs.
Maintenance Tips:
- Regularly inspect the slide structure for signs of wear or damage and repair as needed to prevent safety hazards.
- Clean the slide surface and surrounding areas with a mild detergent and water to remove dirt and debris.
- Ensure proper water flow and lubrication for smooth sliding action and check for clogs or obstructions in the water delivery system.
A pool slide will provide endless hours of fun and excitement in the pool. Pool slides vary in shapes, sizes, and designs, so you can opt for straight, spiral, or something in between.
3. Rope Swings
Rope swings are a fun, unique alternative to diving boards and slides. If you’re interested in adding a rope swing to your pool, consider suspending it from an apparatus that blends into your backyard landscape.
Examples include Mediterranean-style arches, wooden beams, or gunite trees.
Pros:
- Adventure and excitement: Rope swings add an element of adventure to your pool experience, appealing to both children and adults.
- Versatility: Rope swings can be customized to match your pool’s design aesthetic and integrated seamlessly into the surrounding landscape.
- Minimal space requirements: Rope swings require minimal deck space and can be installed in pools of various shapes and sizes.
Cons:
- Safety concerns: Rope swings pose a risk of injury if not used properly, particularly for inexperienced or unsupervised users.
- Maintenance: Regular inspection and maintenance of the swing structure and attachment points are necessary to ensure safe operation and prevent accidents.
Maintenance Tips:
- Check the integrity of the swing ropes and attachment points regularly, tightening or replacing any worn or damaged components.
- Keep the swing area clear of obstacles and debris to prevent tripping hazards and ensure safe operation.
- Supervise children and inexperienced users when using the rope swing to prevent accidents and injuries.
4. Poolside Climbing Walls
Modular poolside climbing walls are a safe and fun alternative to diving boards. Using 3-foot by 3-foot fiberglass panels, the climbing wall design can suit a variety of pools.
Each modular panel can rotate into four different orientations, so you can switch up the rocks and create new rock-climbing challenges.
Pros:
- Fitness and fun: Poolside climbing walls provide an engaging full-body workout while offering a fun and challenging activity for users of all ages.
- Space-saving design: Modular panels can be rotated to create new climbing routes, maximizing space efficiency and accommodating pools of various shapes and sizes.
- Customization options: Climbing wall panels come in a range of colors and textures, allowing you to customize the design to complement your pool’s aesthetic.
Cons:
- Installation complexity: While modular climbing walls are relatively easy to install, proper anchoring and reinforcement are essential to ensure structural stability and user safety.
- Maintenance requirements: Regular inspection and maintenance of climbing wall components are necessary to identify and address any signs of wear or damage that could compromise safety.
Maintenance Tips:
- Inspect climbing wall panels and attachment points regularly, tightening or replacing any loose or damaged hardware.
- Clean climbing wall surfaces regularly to remove algae, mold, and other debris that could affect traction and safety.
- Ensure proper water chemistry and filtration to prevent corrosion and deterioration of climbing wall components.
5. Water Features
Water features add visual appeal and auditory ambiance to your pool area, enhancing the overall aesthetic and creating a relaxing atmosphere. From elegant waterfalls to playful bubblers, there are various options to suit every pool style and preference.
Pros:
- Visual appeal: Water features serve as focal points, adding beauty and sophistication to your pool landscape.
- Relaxing ambiance: The sound of moving water can have a calming effect, promoting relaxation and tranquility.
- Versatility: Water features come in a variety of styles and sizes, allowing you to choose options that complement your pool’s design and your personal taste.
Cons:
- Installation complexity: Some water features may require professional installation to ensure proper placement, function, and safety.
- Maintenance requirements: Regular cleaning and maintenance are necessary to keep water features free of debris and functioning correctly.
Maintenance Tips:
- Clean water feature components regularly to prevent clogs and maintain optimal performance.
- Monitor water chemistry to prevent algae growth and mineral deposits that could affect water feature aesthetics and function.
- Schedule professional inspections and maintenance as needed to address any issues promptly.
6. Basketball Hoop
A pool basketball net made specifically for aquatic use can be enjoyed by kids (and adults) of all ages. Water sports like basketball and volleyball can help you and your family make the most of your pool all summer.
Pros:
- Active entertainment: A pool basketball hoop promotes physical activity and encourages active play, making it an ideal option for families and social gatherings.
- Versatile usage: Basketball hoops can accommodate various games and activities, including basketball, volleyball, and water polo, offering endless entertainment possibilities.
- Easy installation: Most pool basketball hoops are designed for easy DIY installation, requiring minimal time and effort to set up.
Cons:
- Space requirements: Depending on the size of your pool and the location of the hoop, a basketball hoop may take up valuable pool space and limit swimming areas.
- Safety considerations: Proper safety precautions, such as water depth and supervision, are essential to prevent accidents and injuries during active play.
Maintenance Tips:
- Regularly inspect the hoop, net, and backboard for signs of wear or damage, and replace any worn or broken components promptly.
- Clean the basketball hoop and backboard regularly with mild soap and water to remove dirt, debris, and algae buildup.
- Securely anchor the basketball hoop to ensure stability and prevent accidents or damage caused by tipping or falling.
7. Hot Tub
A hot tub, also known as a spa or Jacuzzi, is the perfect spot to relax and unwind after a long day. It can also help you extend your backyard enjoyment into the night and when the temperature drops and pool season comes to a close. With warm, bubbling water and massaging jets, a hot tub is perfect for unwinding after a long day or enjoying quality time with loved ones.
Pros:
- Relaxation and stress relief: The warm water and hydrotherapy jets of a hot tub can help relax muscles, alleviate tension, and reduce stress, promoting overall well-being and relaxation.
- Therapeutic benefits: Hot tubs have been shown to provide relief from various health conditions, including muscle soreness, arthritis pain, and insomnia, making them an excellent option for individuals seeking natural pain relief and improved sleep quality.
- Year-round enjoyment: Unlike swimming pools, hot tubs can be used year-round, allowing you to enjoy the benefits of hydrotherapy and relaxation regardless of the season or weather conditions.
Cons:
- Maintenance requirements: Hot tubs require regular maintenance, including water testing, chemical balancing, and filter cleaning, to ensure water quality and equipment longevity.
- Energy consumption: Operating a hot tub can significantly increase energy bills, especially if used frequently or kept at high temperatures. Additionally, heating and maintaining water temperature in cold climates may require additional energy usage.
- Space considerations: Hot tubs require adequate space for installation and should be placed on a stable, level surface with proper access to electrical outlets and water sources.
Maintenance Tips:
- Test hot tub water regularly using a reliable water testing kit and adjust chemical levels as needed to maintain balanced water chemistry.
- Clean hot tub filters and skimmers regularly to remove debris and maintain optimal water circulation and filtration.
- Schedule professional inspections and maintenance as recommended by the manufacturer to ensure the proper functioning of hot tub components and equipment.
8. Cocktail Tables or Firepits in the Pool
Cocktail tables integrated into the pool provide a unique and practical addition to your pool area. These tables, often equipped with built-in seating, serve as functional gathering spots for eating, drinking, and socializing while enjoying the refreshing pool water.
They enhance the ambiance of your poolside gatherings and elevate the overall experience of your backyard oasis. Alternatively, fire features such as firepits can add warmth and visual interest to your pool area, creating a captivating blend of fire and water for a mesmerizing nighttime atmosphere.
Pros:
- Versatile functionality: Cocktail tables offer a convenient surface for dining, playing games, or simply relaxing with friends and family, enhancing the versatility of your pool area.
- Aesthetic appeal: Fire features like firepits add a touch of elegance and warmth to your pool environment, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere, especially during cooler evenings.
- Space-saving design: Built-in cocktail tables maximize space utilization in your pool area, providing functional amenities without cluttering the surrounding space, making them ideal for compact backyard pool designs.
Cons:
- Maintenance requirements: Regular cleaning and upkeep are necessary to maintain the appearance and functionality of cocktail tables and fire features, ensuring they remain safe and visually appealing poolside additions.
- Installation complexity: Integrating cocktail tables or firepits into the pool design may require professional installation to ensure structural integrity and safety, adding to the overall project cost and timeline.
Maintenance Tips:
- Clean cocktail tables and fire features regularly to remove dirt, debris, and residue buildup, using mild soap and water or appropriate cleaning products for the material.
- Inspect the structural integrity of built-in features periodically to identify any signs of damage or wear, and address any issues promptly to prevent safety hazards or functional issues.
- Follow manufacturer guidelines for maintenance and use of fire features, including proper fuel selection and ignition procedures, to ensure safe operation and longevity.
9. Glass Pool Walls
Glass pool walls are ideal for elevated pools with a view as well as infinity pools. Glass walls take pools to a whole new level, providing a stunning appearance to your outdoor space.
Pros:
- Visual appeal: Glass pool walls create a stunning visual effect, allowing for uninterrupted views of the pool and its surroundings, enhancing the overall aesthetics of your backyard oasis.
- Design flexibility: Glass panels can be customized to fit various pool shapes and sizes, offering flexibility in design and integration with existing landscape features, showcasing the versatility of custom pool designs.
- Natural light: Glass walls allow ample natural light to penetrate the pool area, creating a bright and inviting atmosphere during the day, reducing the need for artificial lighting and highlighting the beauty of your pool design.
Cons:
- Maintenance considerations: Glass pool walls require regular cleaning and maintenance to keep them clear and free of smudges, fingerprints, and mineral deposits, maintaining their transparency and visual appeal.
- Privacy concerns: While glass walls offer panoramic views, they may lack privacy, especially in densely populated areas or urban environments, requiring strategic landscaping or additional privacy features to address this issue.
Maintenance Tips:
- Clean glass pool walls regularly using a non-abrasive glass cleaner and a soft cloth or sponge to remove dirt, smudges, and water spots, ensuring optimal transparency and clarity.
- Inspect glass panels periodically for signs of damage, such as chips, cracks, or scratches, and repair or replace damaged sections as needed to maintain structural integrity and safety.
- Consider applying a protective coating or sealant to glass surfaces to minimize staining and buildup and facilitate easier cleaning and maintenance over time.
10. Shallow Pool Lounge Area/Tanning Ledges
Also known as a Baja shelf, or tanning ledges, these flat, shallow areas in a pool are ideal for lounging in a chair while also being in the water. They also make for a great shallow area for children to splash around (provided the shelf doesn’t drop off into the deep end).
Pros:
- Relaxation and comfort: Shallow pool lounge areas provide a comfortable space for relaxation, allowing swimmers to recline in the water while enjoying the sun’s warmth or cooling off on hot days.
- Versatility: Tanning ledges can serve multiple purposes, from sunbathing and socializing to providing a safe play area for children, making them a versatile addition to any backyard pool.
- Accessibility: With a gradual slope into the pool, shallow lounge areas are easily accessible for swimmers of all ages and abilities, offering a convenient entry point for water-based activities and relaxation.
Cons:
- Limited depth: While shallow lounge areas offer comfort and relaxation, they lack the depth required for more vigorous water activities such as diving or swimming laps, limiting their functionality in certain scenarios.
- Maintenance challenges: Keeping shallow pool lounge areas clean and free of debris can be challenging, requiring regular maintenance and cleaning to ensure optimal hygiene and aesthetics.
Maintenance Tips:
- Regularly clean and sanitize shallow pool lounge areas to prevent the buildup of algae, bacteria, and other contaminants, using a pool brush, mild detergent, and water to scrub the surface.
- Monitor water chemistry and balance to maintain water quality and clarity, adjusting chemical levels as needed to prevent algae growth and maintain a safe and healthy swimming environment.
- Consider installing a pool cover or shade structure over shallow lounge areas to protect them from debris, sunlight, and environmental factors, prolonging their lifespan and reducing maintenance requirements.
Embrace the Future: Elevate Your Backyard with Modern Pool Designs
As we bid farewell to diving boards, it’s clear that modern pool designs offer a world of possibilities for homeowners seeking to elevate their outdoor living spaces. From safety concerns to space limitations, the reasons behind the decline of diving boards are evident.
However, with an array of enticing alternatives at our disposal, the future of backyard pools has never looked brighter. Ready to transform your backyard into a stunning retreat? Contact us today for expert guidance and personalized solutions in modern pool designs and installations.
Let’s turn your vision into reality!
Bert Minor has been a part of the landscaping business for nearly twenty years and has gained an excellent reputation as an innovative and creative designer. In fact, several of his designs and projects have been featured in industry supplier magazines. An active and contributing member of the industry, Bert sat on various boards including the Ottawa Chapter of Landscape Ontario and the Landscape Ontario Provincial Construction Committee. Bert also contributed technical articles published in the Canadian National Landscape Association magazine. With a relentless pursuit of knowledge, Bert has attained several industry certificates in landscape design, landscape construction and with the PHTCC—Pool and Hot Tub Council Canada. Prior to joining the landscaping industry, Bert spent several years in management in the services sector primarily in a customer advocate role. His honesty and integrity and his ability to build and develop strong relationships with clients reflects that.