Plunge Pool or Traditional Pool? What’s the Difference When Planning Your Backyard Oasis?

Plunge Plus, Premium Precast Plunge Pool

If you’re considering a new plunge pool or traditional swimming pool when planning your backyard oasis, you may be wondering which option is the best fit for your lifestyle and space. Should you go for the traditional pool with a deep end, or opt for a plunge pool that is more compact but still offers plenty of relaxation? Let’s dive into the differences between these two popular pool options and help you make an informed decision.

What is a Plunge Pool?

A plunge pool is essentially the shallow end of a traditional pool, but designed to provide a more intimate, low-maintenance swimming experience. While traditional pools typically feature a deep end and long lanes for lap swimming, plunge pools are smaller, shallower, and offer a more relaxed atmosphere. With depths of 52 inches and holding roughly four feet of water, our plunge pools provide the perfect depth for lounging, soaking, and cooling off, with the customization options to make water exercise a breeze.

Interestingly, studies have shown that people spend most of their time in the shallow end of a pool anyway, so why not optimize your backyard by focusing on that area? By opting for a plunge pool when planning your backyard, you’ll reduce the maintenance costs, space requirements, and energy needs of a larger, more traditional pool.

Traditional Pools: Is it Worth the Trouble?

Traditional swimming pools require more extensive planning and installation than plunge pools. The process of building a traditional pool can take several months, and the timeline can often be delayed due to weather conditions or the availability of subcontractors. Traditional pool construction is usually done onsite, which means they are more dependent on local weather patterns and external factors. If you’re planning to install a pool in the colder months, this can be particularly challenging.

Not to mention, maintaining a larger pool means more water to treat, more surface area to clean, and higher energy costs. These are things you’ll need to factor in if you’re considering a plunge pool versus a traditional pool for your property.

Why Choose a Plunge Pool?

One of the biggest benefits of choosing a plunge pool when planning your backyard is the speed and ease of installation. Unlike traditional pool installations that can drag on for months, plunge pools are manufactured offsite in a controlled environment and then delivered and installed in just a few weeks. Because our plunge pools are pre-built, you don’t have to worry about delays caused by weather or waiting for subcontractors. This makes plunge pools a great option if you want to enjoy your new pool sooner rather than later.

The compact size of plunge pools also makes them an excellent choice for smaller backyards. If you don’t have the space for a large pool, a plunge pool allows you to enjoy all the benefits of a pool while leaving plenty of room for other outdoor living spaces like an outdoor kitchen, cabana, or even a sport court.

Customizations Galore

When you think of a plunge pool, you might assume that you’ll have to compromise on the custom luxurious features you want when planning your backyard. However, that’s not the case. Just like traditional pools, plunge pools can be fully customized to fit your style and needs. Whether you’re looking for a tanning ledge, hydrotherapy jets, an automatic cover, or even a swimming current system, you can have it all in your plunge pool. There’s no need to sacrifice luxury for size when planning your backyard oasis.

Hydrotherapy jets, for example, are a great addition to plunge pools, as they provide a soothing, spa-like experience right in your pool. The compact size of plunge pools actually enhances the therapeutic benefits, as you’re immersed in water at just the right depth for maximum relaxation. Use your pool to cool off during the day, then heat it up to hot tub temps at night to turn your plunge into the perfect spa!

More Outdoor Space for Other Features

Another reason to consider a plunge pool is that it gives you more flexibility with the rest of your backyard. Traditional pools can take up a significant portion of your outdoor space, leaving little room for anything else. In contrast, plunge pools’ smaller size allows you to use the remaining space for other outdoor features, such as a fire pit, dining area, or even a full outdoor kitchen.

If you’ve always dreamed of having an outdoor oasis with multiple entertainment options, a plunge pool can be the perfect solution. With its compact size and customizable features, a plunge pool can enhance your backyard experience without taking up all your space.

So, Which Pool is Right for You?

Ultimately, the decision between a plunge pool and a traditional swimming pool comes down to your personal preferences, space limitations, and how you plan to use your pool. If you’re looking for a pool that’s easy to maintain, quick to install, and offers the perfect space for relaxation, a plunge pool is definitely the way to go. Plus, with all the customizable features available, you don’t have to sacrifice luxury for size.

On the other hand, if you have a larger yard and want the option for swimming laps or hosting pool parties, a traditional pool may be more suitable. However, keep in mind that traditional pools come with a higher price tag, longer installation times, and increased maintenance costs.

In the end, a plunge pool offers a great balance of luxury, convenience, and style—perfect for homeowners who want to enjoy a pool without the headaches that come with a traditional pool installation. Ready to take the plunge? Get in touch with our team!

Planning Your Backyard with Plunge Plus
The Cape (9’x21′) complete with a tanning ledge extension outside the pool.