Pools are a great source of entertainment for kids and the big kids alike and adding a waterslide can enhance the fun factor. If you are considering a fibreglass pool or already have one, you may be wondering if they can have a water slide.
So, can they? To cut to the chase, the answer is yes! Here’s what you need to know.
There are a few things to factor in before running out to purchase water slide:
Your budget
Waterslides can range from a few hundred dollars right up to thousands of dollars. On the cheaper end of the scale, you have portable slides and at the other end, permanent fixtures. Once you have decided how much you want to spend on a slide you can narrow down your options from there.
Where the slide can go
You must make sure that a water slide will fit into your backyard before purchasing one and while it may ‘fit’, it cannot encroach on your pool fencing boundary lines. It must be at least 300mm away from the inside of the pool fence to comply with the Australian Standard AS1926. Additionally, it’s important to choose a spot that is going to add to the overall appeal of the pool whilst still being visible from the house and entertaining area, while kids should always be watched by an adult when near water, it enables more people to keep an eye on them when they are playing on it.
Who are you buying the slide for?
If you have children it’s likely that the slide will get used often and will be a beneficial buy, if you’re purchasing a slide just for the sake of it or to make the pool area look more appealing, you should consider whether you will use it much and if it’s worth it.
Verify with council first
Before installing a water slide, you need to ask your local council if you can put a slide in or if you need to apply for a permit.
The type of waterslide you want
When it comes to residential waterslides, you are spoilt for choice. They come in different heights, distances, and speeds. There are options for younger kids that offer a gentle, calm slide into the pool and for the older kids and daredevils, there are straight declines and 360 twists. You can buy waterslides premade or you can have them custom made from scratch on-site. You are only limited by your imagination and the good news is, all types of waterslides can be added to a fibreglass pool. It’s best to speak to someone who specialises in pool slides to discuss your options.
What to look for in a waterslide
Safety features
Choose a slide that has safety features built-in to avoid accidents. Things to look for include non-slip steps and secure handrails.
1. Material
Waterslides are made from different materials, however, the most common are acrylic or polyethylene, both are extremely strong and long-lasting. Make sure the slide is resistant to saltwater, rust, and UV exposure to prevent it from potentially breaking down and becoming a hazard.
2. Colour
Slides come in many colours with grey and blue being popular choices. It’s best to choose a colour that ties in with your pool area and the exterior of your home to create a cohesive look.
Why should I get a waterslide?
Did someone say fun?
The main reason people buy waterslides is that they are fun. They add an extra element of entertainment when you have friends over or when hosting a party. They are well-received by kids and parents alike and provide the opportunity to spend some quality time with the kids.
Extra incentive to get the kids off technology
The more fun the pool is, the more likely the kids are going to use it. Having a slide encourages kids to play and use their imagination whilst keeping active. Most kids spend too much time on technology and a slide in the pool is an enticing way to get them off it and outdoors in the fresh air.
Add the wow factor to your pool area
When incorporated well into the existing space, a slide can make a stunning feature in the pool area. It draws people outside and can enhance the overall appearance of the backyard.
Cheap to run
A waterslide doesn’t use a great deal of energy, so they aren’t going to run up your electricity bill. By only switching them on when you are using them, you can not only minimise the amount of energy it consumes but reduce the evaporation rate of your pool water.
Relaxing
Running water is known to have therapeutic effects and the sound of water running off a slide is much like a water feature. When the kids aren’t playing on it, sitting outside listening to the sound of water is a great way to relax.
Some final tips
Slides with a water supply are better
If your budget allows, try and find a slide that has its own water supply. This saves you the hassle of having to hold a hose at the top and more importantly, it saves water by taking water from the pool to create a continuous flow down the slide. They are safer as you don’t have to worry about anyone getting entangled in the hose or having to splash water on the slide to gain momentum. Some even have interchangeable pressures so you can adjust the intensity. This is the closest thing you’ll get to a theme park waterslide at your home.
Be wary of metal slides
Metal slides are typically made using marine-grade stainless steel and should be used with caution, they can get extremely hot from sitting in the sun and can cause burns if slid down when dry. If you do choose a metal slide, or if your slide has metal fittings such as handrails, make sure they are wet down until they have cooled to prevent injuries.
Our team here at Plunge Pools Perth specialise in luxurious fibreglass plunge pools and waterslides make a great addition, however, they are not something we have as apart of our collection. Worry not, we have extensive experience in the industry and can point you in the right direction. For more information, get in touch today.
