Dive into Paradise: A Comprehensive Guide to Building Your Own Natural Swimming Pool

Imagine swimming in crystal-clear water, surrounded by lush greenery, without the harsh chemicals of a traditional pool. A natural swimming pool (NSP), also known as a swimming pond or living pool, offers just that. It’s an eco-friendly alternative that uses plants and natural filtration to keep the water clean and inviting. Building your own NSP is a rewarding project that brings you closer to nature and adds a unique, sustainable feature to your property. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process, from planning and design to construction and maintenance.

Why Choose a Natural Swimming Pool?

Before we dive into the construction details, let’s consider the benefits of choosing a natural swimming pool over a conventional chlorinated pool:

• No Harsh Chemicals: NSPs rely on natural filtration processes, eliminating the need for chlorine, algaecides, and other chemicals that can irritate skin, eyes, and respiratory systems.
• Eco-Friendly: NSPs are environmentally friendly, reducing your carbon footprint and promoting biodiversity. They provide a habitat for beneficial insects, amphibians, and other wildlife.
• Aesthetically Pleasing: NSPs are beautiful and integrate seamlessly into the landscape, creating a natural oasis in your backyard.
• Lower Maintenance: While NSPs require some maintenance, it’s often less demanding than the constant monitoring and chemical balancing of a traditional pool.
• Cost-Effective: In the long run, NSPs can be more cost-effective than conventional pools due to lower chemical and energy consumption.

Planning and Design: Laying the Foundation for Success

Proper planning and design are crucial for a successful NSP. Here’s what you need to consider:

1. Site Selection: Finding the Perfect Spot

• Sunlight: Choose a location that receives at least 6-8 hours of sunlight per day. Sunlight is essential for the growth of aquatic plants, which play a vital role in the filtration process.
• Shade: While sunlight is important, some shade is also beneficial to prevent excessive algae growth and keep the water temperature comfortable. Consider incorporating trees or shrubs that provide partial shade.
• Water Source: Identify a reliable water source for filling and topping off the pool. Options include well water, rainwater harvesting, or municipal water.
• Soil Type: Analyze the soil type to determine its permeability and stability. Clay soil is ideal as it helps retain water. If the soil is sandy or porous, you’ll need to use a liner to prevent water leakage.
• Accessibility: Ensure easy access to the pool for construction, maintenance, and enjoyment.
• Regulations: Check local building codes and regulations regarding swimming pools and water features. You may need permits for excavation, construction, and water usage.

2. Size and Shape: Defining Your Aquatic Paradise

The size and shape of your NSP will depend on your available space, budget, and desired use. Consider the following factors:

• Swimming Area: Determine the size and depth of the swimming area based on your swimming needs. A deeper area is suitable for diving, while a shallower area is ideal for relaxation and children.
• Regeneration Zone: The regeneration zone is a shallow area planted with aquatic plants that filter and purify the water. It should be approximately equal to or larger than the swimming area.
• Overall Shape: Natural, organic shapes are generally more aesthetically pleasing and blend better with the landscape. Avoid sharp corners and straight lines.

3. Depth and Zoning: Creating a Functional Ecosystem

Divide your NSP into distinct zones with varying depths to create a functional ecosystem:

• Swimming Zone: Typically 4-8 feet deep, depending on diving needs.
• Shallow Zone: 1-3 feet deep, ideal for children and relaxation.
• Regeneration Zone: 1-2 feet deep, planted with aquatic plants for filtration.
• Gravel Filter Zone: A separate zone filled with gravel and beneficial bacteria for additional filtration. This can be integrated within the regeneration zone or located separately.

4. Liner Selection: Ensuring Water Retention

A liner is essential to prevent water leakage, especially in areas with porous soil. Consider the following options:

• EPDM Rubber Liner: A durable and flexible synthetic rubber liner that is resistant to UV radiation, chemicals, and punctures. It’s a popular choice for NSPs due to its long lifespan and ease of installation.
• Clay Liner: A natural and eco-friendly option, but it requires a thick layer of compacted clay and may not be suitable for all soil types.
• Concrete Liner: A more permanent option that requires professional installation. It’s durable but can be prone to cracking.

5. Plant Selection: Choosing the Right Aquatic Flora

The right plants are crucial for the filtration and aesthetic appeal of your NSP. Choose a variety of plants that thrive in aquatic environments and provide different functions:

• Oxygenating Plants: Submerged plants that release oxygen into the water, helping to maintain a healthy ecosystem. Examples include Anacharis, Vallisneria, and Ceratophyllum.
• Floating Plants: Plants that float on the surface of the water, providing shade and helping to control algae growth. Examples include water lilies, water hyacinths (use with caution as they can be invasive), and duckweed.
• Marginal Plants: Plants that grow along the edges of the pool, filtering nutrients and providing habitat for wildlife. Examples include cattails, irises, and reeds.
• Filtration Plants: Plants specifically chosen for their ability to remove nutrients and pollutants from the water. Examples include watercress, water mint, and pickerelweed.

6. Filtration System: Enhancing Water Clarity

While plants provide natural filtration, a supplemental filtration system can further enhance water clarity and reduce the need for extensive maintenance. Consider the following options:

• Gravel Filter: A bed of gravel that filters out debris and provides a surface for beneficial bacteria to colonize.
• Sand Filter: A traditional pool filter that removes fine particles from the water. Use with caution as it can remove beneficial microorganisms.
• UV Sterilizer: A device that uses ultraviolet light to kill algae and bacteria in the water.
• Protein Skimmer: A device that removes organic waste from the water surface.

7. Design Considerations: Adding Personal Touches

Incorporate design elements that reflect your personal style and enhance the overall aesthetic appeal of your NSP:

• Rocks and Boulders: Add natural rocks and boulders to create a more natural and rugged look.
• Waterfalls and Streams: Incorporate waterfalls and streams to add movement and aeration to the water.
• Decks and Patios: Build decks and patios around the pool to create comfortable seating areas.
• Lighting: Install underwater lighting to enhance the ambiance of the pool at night.
• Pathways: Create pathways leading to and around the pool for easy access.

Construction: Bringing Your Vision to Life

Once you have a detailed plan, it’s time to start construction. This process can be labor-intensive, so consider hiring professionals for certain tasks, such as excavation and liner installation.

1. Excavation: Shaping the Pool Basin

• Mark the Outline: Use stakes and string to mark the outline of the pool according to your design.
• Excavate the Basin: Use an excavator or shovel to dig out the pool basin, following the contours and depths specified in your plan. Be sure to create the separate zones for swimming, regeneration, and gravel filtration.
• Shape the Banks: Slope the banks of the pool to prevent erosion and provide a safe entry and exit point.
• Compact the Soil: Compact the soil at the bottom of the basin to provide a firm base for the liner.

2. Liner Installation: Sealing the Pool

• Prepare the Surface: Remove any sharp rocks or debris from the basin to prevent punctures to the liner.
• Install Underlayment: Place a layer of geotextile fabric or sand over the compacted soil to protect the liner from abrasion.
• Position the Liner: Carefully unfold the liner and position it over the basin. Ensure that it covers all areas and extends beyond the edges.
• Secure the Liner: Secure the liner in place by anchoring it to the surrounding ground or using rocks and gravel.
• Fill the Pool: Slowly fill the pool with water, allowing the liner to stretch and conform to the shape of the basin.
• Trim Excess Liner: Once the pool is full, trim any excess liner, leaving enough to secure it along the edges.

3. Planting the Regeneration Zone: Creating a Natural Filter

• Prepare the Substrate: Add a layer of gravel or aquatic planting mix to the regeneration zone to provide a substrate for the plants.
• Plant the Aquatic Plants: Plant the selected aquatic plants according to their specific needs. Space them appropriately to allow for growth.
• Water the Plants: Water the plants thoroughly after planting to help them establish.
• Add Mulch: Add a layer of mulch around the plants to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

4. Installing the Filtration System: Enhancing Water Quality

• Position the Filter: Place the filter system in a suitable location near the pool, ensuring easy access for maintenance.
• Connect the Plumbing: Connect the plumbing lines between the pool and the filter system, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Prime the Pump: Prime the pump and start the filtration system to ensure proper operation.
• Monitor the Water Quality: Monitor the water quality regularly to ensure that the filtration system is working effectively.

5. Adding the Finishing Touches: Enhancing the Aesthetic Appeal

• Add Rocks and Boulders: Arrange rocks and boulders around the pool to create a natural and visually appealing landscape.
• Install Water Features: Install waterfalls, streams, or fountains to add movement and aeration to the water.
• Build Decks and Patios: Build decks and patios around the pool to create comfortable seating areas.
• Install Lighting: Install underwater lighting to enhance the ambiance of the pool at night.
• Create Pathways: Create pathways leading to and around the pool for easy access.

Maintenance: Keeping Your Natural Swimming Pool Healthy and Beautiful

Maintaining a natural swimming pool requires a different approach than a conventional pool. The goal is to create a balanced ecosystem that naturally cleanses the water. Here’s how to keep your NSP healthy and beautiful:

1. Plant Management: Pruning and Thinning

• Prune Regularly: Prune aquatic plants regularly to prevent them from becoming overgrown and shading the water.
• Thin Overcrowded Plants: Thin out overcrowded plants to improve water circulation and prevent nutrient depletion.
• Remove Dead Leaves and Debris: Remove dead leaves and debris from the pool surface to prevent decomposition and nutrient buildup.

2. Water Quality Monitoring: Testing and Adjusting

• Test Water Regularly: Test the water regularly for pH, alkalinity, and nutrient levels.
• Adjust pH: Adjust the pH as needed to maintain a healthy range for aquatic plants and microorganisms.
• Control Algae Growth: Control algae growth by providing adequate shade, maintaining proper nutrient balance, and introducing beneficial microorganisms.

3. Filtration System Maintenance: Cleaning and Servicing

• Clean the Filter Regularly: Clean the filter regularly to remove accumulated debris and maintain optimal performance.
• Backwash the Filter: Backwash the filter as needed to remove trapped particles.
• Inspect the Pump: Inspect the pump regularly for leaks and damage.
• Service the System: Service the filtration system according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

4. Seasonal Maintenance: Preparing for Winter and Spring

• Winterize the Pool: Prepare the pool for winter by removing leaves and debris, lowering the water level, and protecting the filtration system from freezing.
• Spring Startup: Prepare the pool for spring by cleaning the liner, refilling the water, and fertilizing the aquatic plants.

5. Pest Control: Managing Unwanted Visitors

• Control Mosquitoes: Control mosquito populations by introducing mosquito-eating fish or using mosquito dunks.
• Manage Invasive Plants: Manage invasive plants by removing them manually or using herbicides (use with caution).
• Protect from Wildlife: Protect the pool from wildlife damage by installing fences or netting.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

Even with careful planning and maintenance, you may encounter some common problems with your NSP. Here’s how to troubleshoot them:

• Algae Blooms: Algae blooms can occur due to excessive nutrients, sunlight, or poor water circulation. Address the underlying cause by reducing nutrient levels, providing more shade, or improving water circulation.
• Cloudy Water: Cloudy water can be caused by suspended particles, excessive algae growth, or poor filtration. Improve filtration, add clarifying agents, or address the underlying cause of algae growth.
• Leaking Liner: A leaking liner can be difficult to detect. Inspect the liner carefully for punctures or tears and repair them as needed.
• Plant Die-Off: Plant die-off can be caused by nutrient deficiencies, disease, or improper planting. Identify the cause and take corrective action, such as fertilizing the plants or replanting with more suitable species.

Conclusion: Embrace the Natural Swimming Experience

Building a natural swimming pool is a rewarding and sustainable project that brings you closer to nature and enhances your outdoor living space. While it requires careful planning, construction, and maintenance, the benefits of swimming in chemical-free water surrounded by lush greenery are well worth the effort. So, dive into paradise and create your own natural swimming oasis!