Why a Lap Pool ?

If you don’t have room for a classic rectangular pool, or your primary reason for an in-ground pool is to swim, a lap pool might be for you.
There are generally two types of people who install lap pools — serious swimmers, or those with narrow or shallow backyards. Whichever category you fall into, it’s best to learn as much as you can about lap pool basics before you decide to jump in.

Types of Lap Pools

Unlike traditional pools or even plunge pools, there’s not much design flexibility with a lap pool. It’s a long, narrow rectangle, with width and length the only variables. We recommend only narrow internal steps, or better yet offset entry steps that do not impede the swimming area.

As with the different types of in-ground pools, a lap pool can be constructed in vinyl or acrylic sheet. (One caveat with the latter: Because these are prefabricated and must be delivered on a truck, they typically can’t be longer than about 40 feet.)

Lastly, if your backyard is too small for a long lap pool, you can consider a much smaller spool pool, which offers resistance current to swim against.

Lap Pool Installation

Because a lap pool is essentially a long, skinny version of a traditional pool, installation steps are about the same. In-ground lap pools require excavation, pool pumps, filters and skimmers. You’ll probably want a pool deck, either in tile, cement or wood, plus some landscaping to beautify the pool area.

If you’ve got advanced construction skills and access to heavy-duty earth-moving equipment, you could consider installing a DIY lap pool kit. Think long and hard about this one.