A swimming pool is a great addition to any home in the Cayman Islands, providing a year-round source of recreation for both adults and children.
It is worth noting that a pool will add significantly to your electricity bill and, potentially, your water bill. For tips on how to run an energy-efficient pool, refer to the Being Green chapter.
Pool Companies
The following companies in Cayman offer custom pool building services and ongoing pool cleaning maintenance:
Swimming Pool Trends
Depending on your budget there are several types of pools and pool features to consider:
- Zero entries create a beach style entry into the pool. The entryway slopes into the pool as if you’re walking into the sea. The shallow area is a great spot to let supervised children play.
- Plunge pools are perfect for a smaller outdoor space and a swim jet can allow you to swim laps against a current.
- Infinity edge pools produce a visual effect of the water extending to the horizon and are particularly impressive where the infinity edge appears to merge with the ocean or canal.
- Perimeter overflow pools are an evolution of the infinity pool where the water constantly flows over the edge of the pool. The water runs into a hidden catch basin and is then re-circulated into the pool. These pools are perfect for properties with a view. Similarly, some property owners are opting for perimeter overflow spas, where the spa is located in the pool and functions as one system, giving the impression that it is floating in the pool.
- Deck laminars provide a dual function as a calming water feature. Like those seen in water parks, the jets of water exit the patio from hidden fixtures and cascade in arcs into the pool. They are also available with fibre optic or LED lighting options that illuminate the entire stream of water.
- Sheer descents and sheer rain features are water features that can be built into a wall or planter. A sheer descent provides a perfect sheet of water and is a great addition to enhance poolside hardscapes. A sheer rain feature creates a calming and tranquil effect.
- Waterfalls add visual interest to standard shaped pools. Rocks and boulders can be used to create a striking effect and adds a very relaxing ambience.
- Swim-up bars with submerged seating are a common resort-style feature and offer a great way to entertain guests and also stay cool.
- Acrylic wall pools are rare due to cost, but can massively differentiate a property, and add a distinct luxury feel to your outdoor area.
Pool Safety
Having a pool comes with serious responsibility. While pool-related tragedies are rare in Cayman, a few have occurred in recent years.
Every homeowner with a pool should follow these basic safety tips:
- Always supervise children when they are in or near a pool and ensure that those in a supervisory role are good swimmers.
- Make sure everyone in your family learns to swim, including nannies and caregivers.
- Secure your pool with barriers.
- Install and use a lockable safety cover.
- Install pool and gate alarms to alert you when children go near the water.
- Keep life vests and an emergency flotation device near the pool.
- Everyone in the family should learn how to perform CPR and do basic water rescue training. The Red Cross offers certification programmes.
- Keep your pool clean and maintain proper chemical levels to minimise the risk of ear infections and rashes.