Due to its unique name, people often wonder, “What is an infinity pool?” Since Gaius Maecenas of Rome first had the idea to heat a swimming pool, these man-made structures have been popular worldwide.
In the 1950s, architect John Lautner, who studied under Frank Lloyd Wright, introduced the modern concept of the infinity pool. This design removes the barriers between the pool and its surroundings, creating a luxurious experience even in a simple backyard.
What Is an Infinity Pool Compared to a Regular One?
An infinity pool is different from a regular pool in a few ways. An infinity pool may have one or no skimmers and will always have at least one edge below the water level. The skimmer in an infinity pool is usually below the pump level, making it a bit harder to start up.
It has a finished edge all around and at least one side with a seamless edge where the water flows down. A regular pool has a traditional setup with one or more skimmers connected to a pump below the water level, making it easier to start up. It has a top edge made of coping stones or aluminum caps, depending on the pool type.
Characteristics of an Infinity Pool
A key feature of an infinity pool is its vanishing edge, which makes it look like the pool blends perfectly with its surroundings. Another feature is that it has few or no skimmers or openings in the pool walls.
Instead, there’s a finished trough behind the vanishing edge that acts as a skimmer, letting the water flow into the filter. This design makes the infinity pool look completely seamless.
Are Infinity Pools Safe?
This is a most common question. Because the edge looks like it disappears, many people worry it might actually not be there. This shows how strong the illusion is in a well-built infinity pool. But yes, infinity pools are perfectly safe.
How Do Infinity Pools Work?
Infinity pools actually have two levels: the main pool and a basin built below the infinity edge. The main pool does have an edge, but it’s just hidden slightly below the top of the water. This way, most of the water stays in the pool like a regular pool, and the hidden edge helps create the illusion.
Water that flows over the edge goes into the basin below. It is then pumped back into the main pool, so no water wastage occurs.
Benefits of an Infinity Pool
People choose infinity pools mainly for their luxurious look. When placed with a beautiful view, they offer stunning, unobstructed sights of the sea, skyline, or landscape. Many people travel to resorts just to enjoy the luxury of an infinity pool and snap a few photos for Instagram.
Infinity pools are also eco-friendlier than many other pool types. The water that flows over the edge is collected in a basin and recycled back into the pool. The pump that manages this only runs when the pool is in use. This design saves water and energy, reducing costs and lowering the carbon footprint.
Wrapping Up
Now that you know “What is an infinity pool?” you might feel tempted to have one in your backyard. The good news is that you can have one customized for your property.
Contact our skilled pool builders at Millennium Custom Pools. We offer various pool repairs, construction, maintenance, and renovation services to keep your poolside activities alive. Call us at (713) 766-6580 to reach out.
