Usually, visiting a waterfall is at the top of the list of fun things to do after any vacation or trip. However, a man-made waterfall might prompt you to look for a pool deck construction company in your area because they can make your pool experience one to remember.
You probably want to add a waterfall to your inground pool, which is why you're reading this blog. Here you'll learn about the different elements of a pool waterfall and what to expect when you choose one.
What is a pool waterfall?
Artificial waterfalls connected to an in-ground swimming pool are sometimes called a grotto, but the two terms are usually used interchangeably. Every functional pool waterfall has a number of common features and functions. These include the following:
# Pool waterfalls start above the waterline of the pool
# The water flows over the waterfall through the use of powered pumps
# Every functioning waterfall must be additionally maintained
Typically, pool waterfalls come in all sorts of shapes, styles and sizes and are often made from natural or man-made materials, usually brick, concrete or synthetic structures. Sometimes certain construction companies can actually install prefabricated waterfalls that are made from poured concrete.
Artificial waterfalls use motorized pumps that can pump water up to the top of the waterfall structure. However, sometimes the waterfalls are simply built into what is known as the top of the pool, at ground level, which allows the structure to become part of the pool itself.
Other types of waterfalls flow from raised walls or more massive structures that overlook the pool. Regardless of how the waterfall is constructed, all functional waterfalls must use a pump to move the water upward against gravity. Without a pump, there is no waterfall.
And waterfalls can also be built into raised tanning beds or even spas. However, integrated waterfalls might sacrifice some of the natural aesthetics, but actually offer much more functionality than the natural stone waterfalls.
You can also create a natural design directly around a functional waterfall, but this is more expensive than simply placing the pump systems in the right places within a pool design with different heights.
What are the many benefits of pool waterfalls?
Pool waterfalls don't just look great, they can also make you feel great. Just the sound of the water gently trickling into the pool can have a certain therapeutic effect. But they also have other benefits, including the following:
# Overall aesthetics
# Therapeutic, very calming sounds and images.
# Blocks background noise during operation
# Water circulation, has a cooling effect and can help with filtering, reducing algae formation
# Can enlarge the playing area
# Can increase the overall value of your home
A waterfall in your pool can muffle the less pleasant sounds around your home, such as traffic. This can be extremely therapeutic because you don't have to listen to all the noise pollution around you.
And since the pumps keep the water moving over your waterfall edge, they can have functional benefits. The main filter in your pool uses the pumps to circulate the water through the various mechanisms, which can help catch debris and prevent the water from becoming stagnant.
The waterfall can be connected to or used as a complement to the filtration system, improving circulation and removing more debris from your pool before it becomes a problem.
And the flowing water takes much longer to warm up than the standing water, so homeowners use the waterfall feature to alleviate heat buildup during the summer heat. And the falling water can essentially oxygenate the pool.
This works with the overall movement of the water in the pool, which in the long run can reduce the harmful particles and ultimately prevent algae formation in the pool. However, this cannot replace the primary filtration system.
However, it can actually extend the overall lifespan and allow you to use fewer chemical treatments. And larger pool waterfalls can be used to conceal equipment and machinery.
You can even install entertainment features like lighting or a sound system that can instantly create a party atmosphere, but the more features you add to your waterfall installation, the more expensive it will be.
What else can you do with your waterfall pool?
Depending on your budget, the waterfall for your pool can be as large and elaborate as you want. It all depends on what you can afford. Below are some features and different functions you can add to your pool.
Sunbed
A sunbed offers countless creative ideas for different designs. You can let your pool's waterfall flow into the shallow sunbed part of your pool. Or you can build the sunbed directly into the waterfall of your pool.
Retaining walls
Sometimes pool owners have their waterfall built into the walls surrounding their pool. They may have a retaining wall that is higher up and separates the yard from the pool.
High-altitude spillways
Sometimes pool owners want their waterfalls to cascade from a higher second story overflow. A higher waterfall can be a great addition to your yard. It's definitely an eye-catcher.
Integrated spa or whirlpool
A spa or hot tub attachment can be a natural addition to your pool waterfall. You can actually have your waterfall run into your spa or hot tub. Or you can even have the waterfall run from an elevated spa or hot tub into the main pool area of the swimming pool.
