Prefabricated pools are revolutionizing the aquatics industry, offering a reliable and cost-effective alternative to traditional concrete pool construction. These innovative pool systems are manufactured off-site under controlled conditions, then transported and installed at the project location. Prefabricated pools are gaining popularity for a wide range of applications, from hospitality and wellness facilities to aquatic competition venues. Their key benefits include quick installation, reduced costs, and the flexibility of these temporary modular configurations.
There are several types of prefabricated pools, each with unique characteristics and advantages:
Fiberglass pools are manufactured off-site as one-piece basins , made from high-quality fiberglass or PVC reinforced with layers of polyester resin. They feature a smooth, durable gel coat finish and come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Fiberglass pools are known for their fast installation process and low maintenance requirements, as the non-porous surface resists algae growth and requires fewer chemicals. Quite often this type of pool is installed above ground, i.e. with the structure of the pool basin above ground level.
The stainless steel in prefabricated pools provides a touch of great elegance, a feeling of luxury and exclusivity that attracts all eyes. Made of light and sustainable materials, the structure of the stainless steel pools allows them to adapt easily and elegantly to any space, and facilitates their maintenance and cleaning. Precisely for this reason, they are usually a recommended option in wellness spaces, gyms, sports clubs, boutique hotels, resorts, etc.
Stainless steel is a very hygienic, resistant and durable material, which can be installed both in its original finish and with all kinds of decorative coatings. The decorated steel exterior wall will give a personal touch to your pool, allowing it to integrate into the environment. This decoration can be made of wood, stone, graphite, stone, etc.
Modular panel pools are constructed using prefabricated stainless steel panels that are later assembled on site to create the pool walls and its basin. These panels are designed for easy assembly and can be used for both in-ground and above-ground installations. Modular panel pools are an excellent choice for temporary installations or situations where a quick setup and removal are necessary, such as competition events.
These factory-manufactured modular panels are made from high-grade, corrosion-resistant stainless steel. They are welded together on-site to create a seamless, durable pool structure. They are known for their precision, rapid installation process and low maintenance requirements.
Prefabricated pools offer numerous benefits for pool professionals and facility owners:
One of the primary advantages of prefabricated pools is their reliable and quick installation process. Since these pools are manufactured under controlled factory conditions, the quality and consistency of the components are ensured. The modular nature of prefabricated pools allows for fast on-site assembly even in hard to access sites, reducing weather-related delays and overall construction time. Additionally, modular panel systems are ideal for sports pools, offering high precision, to meet the strict measurements and tolerances required by organizations such as World Aquatics, making them suitable for hosting official aquatic competitions.
Prefabricated pools can be more cost-effective than traditional concrete pools due to several factors. The shorter installation time results in lower labor costs, while the standardized production process can reduce material costs. Additionally, many prefabricated pool designs incorporate energy-efficient features, such as efficient filtration and heating systems, which can lower long-term operating expenses.
Prefabricated pools offer versatility in terms of installation options and pool shape configurations. They can be installed in-ground, above-ground, or semi-inground, depending on the project requirements. Temporary installations are also possible, making prefabricated pools ideal for events and competitions. The modular nature of these pools allows for unique configurations and customization to suit specific design needs.
Certain types of prefabricated pools require less maintenance compared to traditional concrete pools. The smooth, non-porous surfaces of these materials resist algae growth and are easier to clean. Efficient filtration and sanitizing systems can be integrated into prefabricated pool designs, further simplifying maintenance tasks. The modular construction also allows for targeted repairs, as it allows for easy access to the back of the panels for maintenance and inspections. The panels are hot-dip galvanized, providing excellent corrosion protection against the chlorine-rich environments of pool facilities. This reduces long-term maintenance costs and ensures the pool’s longevity.
Prefabricated pools are suitable for a wide range of applications, including:
- Hospitality and Leisure Facilities: Hotels, resorts, and water parks can benefit from prefabricated pools due to their quick installation and customizable designs. These pools can be installed on rooftops or indoors, and can feature unique elements such as infinity edges, curvy shapes or beach entries. They are also a popular choice for schools and other public institutions, providing enough space to teach people how to swim but without the associated costs and permanency of the installation.
- Wellness centers and spas: Hospitals, rehabilitation clinics, and senior living facilities often require specialized aquatic environments for hydrotherapy and aquatic exercise. Prefabricated pools can be designed to meet these specific needs, with features such as adjustable depths, underwater treadmills, and accessible entry points. Spas, hot tubs, and cold plunge pools can also be constructed using prefabricated systems.
- Aquatic Competition Venues: Prefabricated pools are an excellent solution for temporary aquatic competition venues. The modular design allows for quick installation and removal, minimizing venue downtime. Customizable configurations enable event organizers to create unique pool layouts tailored to specific sports and competitions. Then, once the competition is finished, the pool can be disassembled quickly to use the space for other purposes.
Several manufacturers, such as Fluidra, offer innovative prefabricated pool systems:
- Fluidra Skypool Panels: These lightweight, modular stainless steel panels are designed for all types of pools. From rooftop and elevated pool installations, to large pools in leisure and sports facilities. The panels are easy to transport and assemble, making them ideal for challenging installation sites and strict size requirements and tolerances. These pools are built from prefabricated steel or galvanized steel panels, covered with a PVC-P liner and finished with ceramic tiles. The Skypool system also offers renovation panels. These are ideal for outdated pools that need refurbishing, whether to comply with regulations or to give them a new lease of life. These panels mitigate the necessity to demolish the entire pool.
- Fluidra Bluespring System: This modular pool system offers rapid installation and customizable configurations ideal for leisure pools in hotels, campings, wellness centers and aquatic parks. The lightweight structure of the Bluespring modular pool helps swimming pool designers create fully personalized, state-of-the-art swimming pools. This solution offers both style and substance, with a range of options for shapes and sizes. The double-walled self-supporting structure features an overflow channel and a built-in compensation tank. This perimeter doesn’t require a retaining wall or soil filled with sand or gravel, thereby limiting masonry work. This modular pool is assembled by combining two types of individual component parts: central and corner. Once connected, Bluespring modules accommodate the water containment membrane. The waterproofing membrane is made with a polyester fibre warp and weft fabric coated with PVC on both sides.
- Laghetto Pools: Laghetto offers a range of above-ground and in-ground prefabricated pools with stylish finishes, such as wood and synthetic wicker. These pools are designed for quick installation and can be easily integrated into existing landscapes. They are a Plug & Play prefabricated solution ideal for suites, terraces and gardens of hotels, resorts, campsites and private properties. These are usually small pools with cushioned areas to sit and relax poolside and a sleek, minimalist design. Its finish is made of an integral external covering of synthetic fibre intertwined by hand on a painted aluminium frame. The structure of these pools is made of zinc magnesium steel and parts of stainless steel. While the pool basin is lined with a liner made of polyester fibres or high resistance polymers (PVC). Some models of these pools can be equipped with a filtration and recirculation system, temperature control, underwater lighting, a control panel, an isothermal cover, and even a hydromassage system.
- One-Piece Stainless Pools: These factory-welded, complete stainless steel basins are lowered into pre-excavated sites, creating a seamless and durable pool structure. The one-piece design eliminates the need for on-site assembly, further reducing installation time. Made of light and sustainable materials, the structure of the stainless steel pools allows them to adapt easily and elegantly to any space, and facilitates their maintenance and cleaning . For this reason, they are usually a recommended option for small to medium-sized pools in wellness spaces, gyms, sports clubs, boutique hotels, resorts, etc.
- EPS: This construction system provides another excellent modular option for many types of pools. These prefabricated modules are made from synthesised expanded polystyrene plastic (EPS). This material is fully waterproof, durable, and inert. They’re also ecological and fully recyclable, making them ideal for environmentally-conscious operators. This choice of material provides a number of extraordinary benefits for pools installed in difficult-to-access spaces, such as rooftops or high building floors. They allow for various shapes. Also, the material is highly resistant to humidity and chlorinated environments. It’s lightweight, thermally insulated, easy to install, and with excellent reliability and accuracy both in its design and assembly. And it can be perfectly combined with stainless steel and concrete materials and finishes.
Prefabricated pools offer a reliable, cost-effective, and versatile solution for a wide range of aquatic projects. With their quick installation process, reduced maintenance requirements, and customizable designs, prefabricated pools are an attractive option for leisure facilities, wellness centers, and competition venues alike. The modular nature of these pools allows for creative freedom in design and configuration, while the controlled manufacturing process ensures consistent quality. As manufacturers continue to innovate and develop new prefabricated pool systems, the possibilities for unique and efficient aquatic installations will only continue to grow.