Lap Pool Design - How To Build Your Own Lap Pool

							Lap Pool Design - How To Build Your Own Lap Pool
By Ryan McCall – www.BestSwimmingPoolShop.com

Swimming is one of the best exercises you can do. Not only do you get a full
body workout, but the resistance of the water helps build muscle. The best way
to get a good swimming workout is in a lap pool, and if you are interested in lap
pool design then this article will help you plan and build your own.

What is a lap pool?
Unlike a regular swimming pool, a lap pool is specifically for swimming laps.
They are long and narrow rather than round, so you can swim back and forth as
many times as you like. Some pools have a lap area set off to one side, making
the entire pool an L-shape, but generally they are designed for lap swimming
only. They have the same level of depth throughout the whole pool, as lap
swimming does not require a shallow and deep end.

How to build a lap pool
First, make sure that you have enough space in your backyard. You will want
around 40 to 75 feet for the length of the pool, and five to ten feet for the width.
Lap pools are generally about four feet deep.

Once you know you have the space, you need to take your plans to the city.
Most municipalities have requirements you must adhere to when you are
building a pool, and will require you to apply for and have the appropriate
permits. Make sure you know if your city has any requirements regarding where
pools can be located on your property, and what the plumbing and draining
requirements are.

Map out your plumbing. Contact your local water company for assistance with
this. The most important aspect, of course, is that you can pipe water into your
pool and also drain water out of it easily and in an environmentally friendly way.

Now, mark out the exact dimensions of your pool and start digging! Even though
lap pools are smaller than regular swimming pools, you will still be moving a
whole lot of dirt. You can dig the outline of your pool with shovels, but for the
main digging you may want to rent something a little more heavy-duty.

Before you pour your cement, connect all of the water lines to the pool. Then
pour cement for the bottom, sides and lip of your pool. Make sure it is even and
smooth, and that you have mixed and poured it according to the specific

Lap Pool Design - How To Build Your Own Lap Pool C 2010
instructions. Also, make sure you give the cement enough time to set
completely.

Finally, it is time to install your pool tile. Place it along the top edge, usually
starting just below the water line and going up to the top edge of the pool.

Is building your own lap pool right for you?
Lap pool design isn't difficult...but building them is a lot of work. It is a good
idea to hire professional pool installers for at least some of the bigger jobs, to
make sure that everything gets done right the first time.




Lap Pool Design - How To Build Your Own Lap Pool C 2010