Plunge Pool FAQs With Texas Tiny Pools

Plunge pools have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their compact size and therapeutic benefits. These small pools are typically used for relaxation, hydrotherapy, and exercise. They are also great for homeowners who have limited space in their backyard or garden. When it comes to designing a plunge pool, tile finishes can play a significant role in creating a visually appealing and functional pool.

Tile finishes are one of the most popular options for plunge pool interiors due to their durability, versatility, and aesthetic appeal. There are a wide variety of tile options available in the market, each with its unique style, texture, and color. Some of the popular tile finishes for plunge pools include glass mosaic, ceramic, and porcelain tiles.

Porcelain tiles are another excellent choice for plunge pool finishes. They are extremely durable, scratch-resistant, and resistant to chemicals and stains. Porcelain tiles also offer a range of colors, patterns, and textures, making them a versatile choice for plunge pools.

FAQ

When it comes to designing a plunge pool, it's important to work with a professional pool builder or designer to ensure that your pool is designed to meet your specific needs and preferences. They can help you choose the right tile finish, size, and shape to create the perfect look for your backyard oasis. We talked with Amy Hageman, founder of Austin, TX-based Texas Tiny Pools to learn more about the design process.

What defines a tiny pool?

A Tiny Pool is smaller than a larger traditional pool and is typically designed to fit in a smaller space. Just like a traditional pool, our pools are custom-designed in-ground concrete pools. Our goal at Texas Tiny Pools is to build smarter and safer pools; this includes being smart with the layout and interior design (not wasting space that won't ever be used), as well as using the best and most efficient pool equipment available. Our pools are safer thanks to our optional patent-pending sliding deck covers as well as the other cover and safety features we can provide.

Why would someone choose a plunge pool over a full-size swimming pool?

Tiny Pools are ideal for tight spaces where you want a pool but don't want your yard to become the pool! Or perhaps you have a large yard but want to preserve some of the green space for kids, pets, putt putt or other activities. Nothing says that if you're getting a pool it has to be huge; think about what you will use it for and how big you really need it to be for your lifestyle.

How should a homeowner think about incorporating a plunge pool into an overall landscape design?

We love partnering with landscape designers to bring a new overall yard vision to life with a pool at the heart of it. Think about things like traffic flow and how guests enter your yard, entertaining spaces and how they connect with the pool, as well as how you will maintain new landscaping as it fits into your overall yard and pool maintenance. We say the pool becomes the kitchen - it's where everyone will hang out when you have company!

As far as look and feel, consider the color tones of any new plantings and how they will complement the material's colors you are going to choose for your pool; are you doing deep green plants and want a moody pool to match, or are you leaning more towards the lighter shades of succulents and native plants and want your pool to blend in with the environment?

Are tiny pools more affordable than larger pools?

They can be less expensive and more efficient. However there are still construction minimums so Tiny Pools do not always come with a tiny price tag. Our customers often choose to build with us because of our expertise in difficult yards, and our design and upgrade options (as opposed to having the lowest cost).

Is permitting easier for a tiny pool vs a full-size pool?

In short, no. The same rules apply to Tiny Pools as they do for standard-sized in-ground pools. Our clients often choose to work with us because of our expertise in navigating the complex permitting process for properties that have challenges (like impervious cover limits, large trees, utilities, and tight access).

What is the typical depth of a plunge pool?

Our pools are typically 3.5' to 5' deep.

What trends are you seeing in tiny pool design?

It's fun to follow trends but we ultimately want to design a pool for you that will be timeless and match your lifestyle. Tile colors are trending towards more neutrals but in unique shapes to add some flair - think triangles and long rectangles vs. your typical 6x6 squares.

Some fun things we are seeing are even though the pool is smaller, our clients are still including the features they want; we can install covers, swim jets, and spa jets. We are also seeing a demand for smarter pool systems such as UV/Ozone sanitation systems (as a way to use less chlorine), in-floor cleaning systems, and automation of your pool equipment (control pool features from your iPhone).

Where do you typically use tile in a design?

We always have tile on the waterline, but we are seeing folks have more fun and perhaps tiling their entire sun shelf or extending tile deeper than the typical 6" waterline requirement. "Toe tile" (aka trim tile) is also a nice addition because it's a design feature but also a safety visual to identify the edges of steps and benches.

Are plunge pools more efficient than full-size pools?

Tiny Pools overall use less water and chemicals. And because our project space is typically tighter, the pool equipment is located closer to the pool, which helps with efficiency.

The right tile matched with the right design and construction company will leave you with a plunge pool you’ll enjoy for years to come.

Start your journey with free samples of our pool-ready glass and ceramic tile. Or fill out this quick form for free design assistance from a Fireclay Design Consultant in your area.