Building Your Own Natural Swimming Pool: Step-By-Step

When the sun's shining, nothing beats taking a dip in a cool, refreshing pool. But imagine if your pool was more like a beautiful, serene pond, buzzing with nature, and free from harsh chemicals. That's the magic of a natural swimming pool (NSP)!

These unique, eco-friendly water wonders are gaining popularity and it's easy to see why. Let's take a deep dive into everything there is to know about natural swimming pools. Who knows, you might just be convinced to build one in your own backyard!

What's a Natural Swimming Pool Anyway?

A natural swimming pool is a swimming area where the water is purified and filtered naturally, rather than with the use of chemicals. It's often split into two zones: a swimming zone, where you'll be doing your doggy paddle or butterfly stroke, and a regeneration zone, where plants and other natural materials filter the water. Think of it as a swimming pool and garden, all in one.

It's similar to the concept of the eco-friendly home where everything works in harmony with nature. Plus, just like how using solar energy is a step towards a greener lifestyle, NSPs also reduce our carbon footprint and promote biodiversity.

Natural Swimming Pools and the Environment

Natural swimming pools are kinder to Mother Earth than traditional pools. How, you ask? Well, remember the regeneration zone we mentioned? That area is filled with water-loving plants that absorb nutrients from the water, preventing algae growth without the need for chemicals like chlorine. These plants create a mini-ecosystem, providing a habitat for beneficial insects, frogs, and birds. It's a win-win!

Natural pools also have a lower energy consumption. According to the National Resources Defense Council, traditional pools can consume between 3,000 and 7,000 kWh of energy per year. With natural pools, there's no need to constantly run filters or heaters, making them as efficient as they are eco-friendly. They perfectly align with the energy-saving principles we discussed in our blog about solar energy.

The Benefits of Natural Swimming Pools

Aside from their environmental benefits, NSPs offer a lot for us humans, too. For starters, you won't have to worry about the irritating effects of chlorine on your skin and eyes. Who wouldn't want a chemical-free, Brush Club-approved swim?

Swimming in natural, chemical-free water is a different experience altogether. The water feels softer, and you'll feel closer to nature as you swim amongst the lilies, hearing the buzz of insects and maybe even spotting a frog or two!

Building Your Own Natural Swimming Pool

Plan Your Pool

Before you even pick up a shovel, you need to plan. Determine how much space you have for the pool. Remember, an NSP consists of a swimming zone and a regeneration zone, with the latter often taking up as much as half of the total pool area.

Sketch a design that includes both zones, considering how they'll integrate with your existing yard. You’ll need to think about how the water will flow between the two areas, the depth, and the shape. Your pool should blend naturally with your surroundings, so consider the overall aesthetic too!

Create Your Budget

Next, create a budget. The cost of natural swimming pools can vary greatly depending on the size and specific design features. On average, expect to pay around $50 to $100 per square foot. While this might sound steep, remember that natural pools can often save money in the long run. There's no need for costly chemicals, and energy costs are typically lower than traditional pools. It's an investment not only in your property but also in the environment.

Choose the Right Plants

Choosing the right plants is key to a healthy NSP. Plants play a crucial role in the filtration process, absorbing nutrients from the water and providing oxygen. They also create a habitat for beneficial wildlife and insects.

For the regeneration zone, select native, water-loving plants. Some excellent options include water lilies, reeds, and rushes. Make sure to check if the plants are suitable for your climate and if they can thrive in a pool environment. Remember, the goal is a balanced ecosystem that is both beautiful and functional.

Construct the Pool

Now, it's time to start building. You might want to hire a professional for this part, especially if you have a large or complex design. The construction process involves excavating the site, installing a liner, adding a pump and filtration system, and creating the regeneration zone. The latter is filled with gravel or a similar substrate and then planted with your chosen aquatic plants.

The two zones need to be separated but connected, allowing water to circulate freely. This can be achieved through a wall with openings near the top and bottom, or a gentle slope if you prefer a more natural look.

Introduce Water and Start the System

With the construction complete, it's time to fill your pool with water. Once full, the pump and filtration system can be turned on to start circulating the water through the regeneration zone.

The plants will begin to filter out impurities, and beneficial bacteria will establish in the gravel substrate, further aiding the filtration process. It can take several weeks for the system to balance, so be patient. You'll soon have a self-cleaning, chemical-free pool to enjoy!

Building a natural swimming pool is an exciting journey. It requires careful planning and consideration but the result is more than worth it: a stunning, eco-friendly oasis right in your backyard. Ready to make a splash the natural way? Join the green revolution with Brush Club today!

Maintaining Your Natural Swimming Pool

Once your pool is up and running, it's not a case of letting nature completely take its course. Regular maintenance is key. This includes trimming back plants, removing fallen leaves, and keeping an eye on the water balance.

And just like you’d care for your teeth with Brush Club's eco-friendly products, your NSP requires some attention to keep it clean and healthy. But don't worry, it's not too labor-intensive and most find the process rewarding.

So there you have it! Natural swimming pools provide a unique, eco-friendly, and downright fun addition to your home. They support biodiversity, reduce energy usage, and provide a healthier swimming environment. Sounds great, right?

If you're interested in making your lifestyle greener, from your home to your swimming pool, join the Brush Club community today. And don't forget to share your thoughts and experiences about NSPs or any other eco-friendly solutions. We can't wait to hear from you!