Indoor swimming pools: perfect for all occasions

Indoor swimming pools are the norm in the public domain. They are good for all weather conditions and can be easily heated in the winter.

But for home owners who have a small space or unpredictable climate, the indoor or undercover pool is an option to consider. 

Manfred Wiesemes is the president of the Swimming Pool & Spa Association of NSW and knows his stuff when it comes to pools. He suggests that undercover pools are relatively uncommon, but can offer a practical option for swimmers with specific needs.

"People that have their own indoor pool are generally those who want to train or exercise and want to swim all year round," explains Manfred.

Minimising costs with indoor swimming pools

While outdoor pools can be warmed in winter, continuous water heating can be costly, especially when relying on an electric power source. Solar options are more economical and encouraged for environmental reasons, but if your sky is always grey, the water stays cool.

Large amounts of the heat generated by gas or electric systems get wastefully swallowed up by the cool environment outside. This is where undercover and indoor options can be practical.

"If it's really windy or chilly, certainly the (outdoor) heating costs would be more," says Manfred. "Being undercover makes it cheaper to heat the pool and also extends the swimming season regardless of weather conditions." 

Be prepared for reconstruction

If you're planning to go undercover, be aware that costs can creep in if lots of reconstruction is necessary. Fitting a pool inside may call for extreme excavation, and renovation of the home. The ideal situation would be to plan the house around the pool at the time of construction. 

If you've got the space and you're serious about an indoor set-up, other luxurious extras can be added. Go all out with a therapeutic spa and sauna combination or deck the area out in natural wood for that Scandinavian feel. If anyone knows how to enjoy a pool or spa in the cooler weather, it's the icy-cold countries of northern Europe.

Contact a pool builder in your area to find out which of the indoor swimming pools will suit your backyard: