How to choose pool ladders and stairs

Town & Country Pool Builders explain how to choose pool ladders and stairs

The choice of a pool ladder, stairs or even a beach entry is something that will not only impact the design of your swimming pool, but the amount of space you will have available for swimming. Ask your pool builder from Town & Country Pools for advice and advantages and disadvantages of the various styles of ladders, steps and beach entries for your family’s swimming pool.

Pool railings

When you have stairs you will need to having railings installed as well. The railings must be stable and sturdy enough for support and for grabbing safety. These items are installed when the pool is constructed or could be added as part of a swimming pool renovation project. A railing is installed in the pool with the use of masonry screws and your pool contractor will inspect the railing to make certain it’s secure during his service visits.

You may want to consider having a ladder or an entry at both ends of the swimming pool — depending on its size and depth.

Railings for pool slides

If you have a swimming pool slide, and you will want to talk with your pool contractor to make certain your pool is large and deep enough to accommodate one. You may also need to check with your insurance agent to see if this accessory will impact your insurance rates or coverage. A pool slide will need a railing the entire length of the stairs. You may opt to have a safety railing at the top of the pool slide, in fact it may be required by local zoning ordinances.

Pool jump board versus diving board

Diving boards for swimming pools have fallen out of favor in recent years — partially because of safety concerns and partially because they take up a lot of space in the pool. If you’re still seeking this type accessory you can choose from:

• A flexible board on a stand called a jump board.
• A flexible board on a rigid stand, called a diving board, with with much less “spring” than traditional diving boards.
• Diving platforms, stands that swivel or can be locked into a bench position.

If you’re considering a diving board or a jump board for your pool be aware that the pool needs to be at least seven and a half feet deep, or deeper depending on the height and length of the board. Check with your pool contractor and your local code enforcement agency to see whether it’s allowed in your area of the country.

Diving boards, jump boards and slides can be fun additions to a swimming pool as long as they’re used with care and caution. Remember, that any of these accessories will need to have railings affixed for safety reasons.

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