How to Build a Natural Swimming Pool

Creating a natural swimming pool (NSP) is an eco-friendly, sustainable way to enjoy swimming in a clean, chemical-free environment. Unlike conventional pools, which rely on chemicals to sanitize the water, natural swimming pools utilize biological filtration and plant-based filtration systems to maintain water quality. This method mimics a natural water body, combining aesthetics with functionality to create an enjoyable and healthy swimming experience.

In this article, we will guide you step-by-step on how to build a natural swimming pool. We will cover the planning, design, construction, and maintenance processes, helping you create a beautiful, eco-conscious oasis right in your backyard.

Understanding Natural Swimming Pools

Before diving into the specifics of building a natural swimming pool, it's essential to understand how they work. A natural swimming pool is divided into two main zones:

• Swim Zone: This is the area where you swim. It is typically deep enough to accommodate swimmers comfortably and is free from the usual chemical treatments that traditional pools require.
• Regeneration Zone: This zone is dedicated to filtration. It contains plants and biofilters that help purify the water by removing organic waste, pollutants, and particles. This system mimics a natural ecosystem, where microorganisms break down contaminants, and plants filter out excess nutrients.

These two areas are integrated into one pool, creating a sustainable and natural water ecosystem. The water in the swim zone is continuously filtered and circulated through the regeneration zone, where it is purified before returning to the swimming area.

Planning and Design

Building a natural swimming pool requires thoughtful planning and design. The key to a successful project lies in understanding the space you have, the functionality you desire, and the elements that will bring your pool to life.

2.1. Assessing the Site

Choosing the right location for your natural swimming pool is crucial. Consider the following factors:

• Sunlight: Natural swimming pools rely on sunlight for plant growth and biological filtration. Ensure the area you choose receives ample sunlight throughout the day.
• Space: The size of your yard will determine the size and shape of your pool. Natural swimming pools are often larger than conventional pools because they require space for both the swimming zone and the regeneration zone.
• Slope: If your land is sloped, you can design the pool to take advantage of gravity for water flow. On a flat surface, however, you'll need to incorporate a pump system to circulate the water.
• Accessibility: The pool should be easy to access from your house and other areas of your yard. Ensure there's space for walking paths, seating, and perhaps even a lounge area.

2.2. Designing the Pool Shape

Natural swimming pools often have organic shapes that blend well with the surrounding landscape. Avoid rigid, geometric designs and instead focus on creating natural contours that mimic the form of a pond or lake. You can work with a landscape architect or pool designer who specializes in NSPs to develop a design that suits your space and aesthetic preferences.

Consider the following design elements:

• Swim Zone Depth: The swim zone should be deep enough to allow swimming. Typically, this area ranges from 4 to 6 feet deep.
• Regeneration Zone: The regeneration zone, where plants will grow, should be shallow, usually around 18 to 24 inches deep. This allows the roots of the plants to filter the water efficiently.
• Waterfall or Stream: Including a waterfall or stream in your design can add an aesthetic element while also improving water circulation. These features can be integrated into the regeneration zone to create a visually dynamic pool.
• Shelves or Shallow Areas: Incorporating shallow areas can create a natural lounging space where you can relax and enjoy the surrounding environment.

2.3. Selecting Plants and Biofilters

Choosing the right plants for your natural swimming pool is one of the most exciting aspects of the project. Plants serve a dual purpose: they enhance the beauty of your pool and contribute to the water filtration process. Consider native aquatic plants that thrive in your climate.

Some common types of plants for the regeneration zone include:

• Submerged Plants: These plants are fully submerged and help oxygenate the water. Examples include water lilies and hornwort.
• Floating Plants: These plants float on the water's surface, absorbing excess nutrients. Examples include water hyacinth and duckweed.
• Emergent Plants: These plants have roots submerged underwater but grow above the surface. Examples include cattails, bulrushes, and sedges.
• Filtration Plants: Some plants are specifically chosen for their ability to filter water, such as reeds, irises, and water grasses.

In addition to plants, biofilters (such as gravel or sand filters) will be needed to remove larger particles and biological waste from the water. These filters should be placed in the regeneration zone where the water is cycled through.

Building the Pool

Building a natural swimming pool requires specialized knowledge of construction, plumbing, and landscaping. While it is possible to build the pool yourself, hiring professionals who are experienced in creating natural pools can ensure the process runs smoothly.

3.1. Excavation

The first step in building your natural swimming pool is excavation. The area will need to be dug to create both the swimming and regeneration zones. You'll want to hire a professional excavator for this task, as it requires careful planning and equipment to achieve the right depths and slopes.

• Swim Zone: The swim zone will need to be deeper, usually around 4 to 6 feet. Be sure to leave space for any features like ledges, steps, or seating areas.
• Regeneration Zone: The regeneration zone should be shallow, usually 18 to 24 inches deep. This allows for optimal plant growth and filtration.

3.2. Installing the Pool Shell

Once the area is excavated, you'll need to install the pool shell. This can be made from several materials, including concrete, flexible liners, or pre-formed pools. The material choice will depend on your budget, design, and local climate.

• Concrete Pools: Concrete is durable and customizable, allowing for intricate designs. It can be reinforced with steel to ensure strength.
• Flexible Liners: Flexible liners made of materials such as EPDM rubber are commonly used in natural swimming pools. They are easy to install and cost-effective, though they may not have the same longevity as concrete.
• Pre-Formed Pools: Pre-formed pools are made from molded materials and come in a variety of shapes and sizes. While they are quicker to install, they offer less flexibility in design.

3.3. Plumbing and Water Circulation

A natural swimming pool requires an efficient water circulation and filtration system to ensure the water remains clean and clear. A pump system will be needed to move water from the swim zone to the regeneration zone and back.

• Pump: A pump is essential to circulate water through the biofilters and plant beds. It ensures that water from the swim zone flows into the regeneration zone for filtration before returning to the swimming area.
• Filtration System: The filtration system should include mechanical and biological filters. The mechanical filters remove larger particles, while the biological filters (such as bio-balls or gravel) break down organic waste.

3.4. Planting and Landscaping

After the pool shell and plumbing are installed, it's time to add the plants. The regeneration zone should be filled with a variety of aquatic plants. You can use containers or plant them directly into the substrate, depending on the design.

• Aquatic Planting: Choose a combination of submerged, emergent, and floating plants for the best filtration and aesthetic results. Be sure to plant them in strategic locations to ensure proper coverage and water circulation.
• Landscaping: Once the plants are in place, consider adding surrounding landscaping elements like rocks, pebbles, and pathways to enhance the natural beauty of the pool area.

Water Treatment and Balancing

While natural swimming pools are low-maintenance, they still require monitoring to maintain water quality. You will need to periodically test the water and make adjustments to ensure the balance is right.

• Water Testing: Use a pool water testing kit to monitor the levels of pH, alkalinity, and hardness. It's essential to maintain these levels to prevent algae growth and ensure the health of the plants.
• Nutrient Management: The key to maintaining a healthy NSP is controlling nutrient levels, particularly nitrogen and phosphorus. Too many nutrients can lead to algae blooms, so be mindful of plant growth and ensure proper filtration.
• Cleaning: Regularly clean the mechanical filters, and remove debris from the swim zone and regeneration zone. Occasionally, you may need to trim plants to prevent them from overtaking the pool.

Maintaining Your Natural Swimming Pool

Natural swimming pools require regular maintenance to ensure they remain functional and beautiful. While the filtration system and plants will do most of the work, regular tasks will still be necessary.

5.1. Regular Plant Care

Aquatic plants require periodic maintenance, such as pruning, dividing, and removing dead leaves. If your plants start to overgrow, thin them out to ensure they continue to filter the water effectively.

5.2. Cleaning Filters and Pump

Check and clean your biofilters and mechanical filters regularly to keep them functioning optimally. Clean the pump as needed to prevent debris from clogging the system.

5.3. Water Quality Monitoring

Regularly monitor the water's pH, clarity, and nutrient levels. If the water becomes murky or the plants show signs of distress, adjust the filtration system or nutrient balance accordingly.

Conclusion

Building a natural swimming pool is a rewarding and sustainable project that allows you to enjoy a chemical-free swimming experience. By combining thoughtful design, efficient filtration systems, and beautiful aquatic plants, you can create an oasis that enhances both the aesthetic and environmental quality of your backyard. Whether you choose to undertake the project yourself or enlist professional help, the result will be a stunning, eco-friendly pool that offers enjoyment for years to come.

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