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pool waterfalls
Luxury Pool Water Features: Icing On The Cake
Today we will take a look at a few luxury pool water features commonly used in many backyard design projects. Keep in mind that many luxury pool contractors rates will typically range between $100,000 and $500,000.
The biggest economic crisis in modern history saw many great pool contractors throughout North America moving onto other things. Sadly, this opened the door for many inexperienced builders to build so-called luxury pools.
The amount of fine attention to detail that goes into building a custom pool to a high standard may go unnoticed to the average person but are easily detected by experienced pool builders.
As always, you want to ensure that you are hiring someone that is capable of carrying out a project. Don’t just take the contractors word for it. If possible, check their references. While it isn’t a foolproof way of avoiding problems later on, it does eliminate a lot of doubts.
Popular types of luxury pool water features
Mediterranean Pool by Edmond Landscape Architects & Landscape Designers CAVINESS LANDSCAPE DESIGN, INC.
Custom Rock Waterfalls
High quality pools deserve quality water features. A common water feature for nature infused backyards is a custom rock waterfall. These are a staple in amusement parks around the world and for good reason. They look great, produce soothing sounds, and can transform a cold and boring yard into a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Rock water features are made in a variety of different ways.
1. Artificial GFRC Panels Tied To An Internal Steel Frame
One method utilizes an internal bracing system with concrete GFRC panels tied on making the inside hollow. A concrete mud is used to seal the joints. One company that comes to mind is Neptune Panels which is a distributor in the USA. While strong, the concrete/fiber panels will still split down the middle if struck hard enough with a hammer. Rock molds for this method are often flat surfaced making this the easiest method to scale for fast projects.
Modern Pool by Manchester Stone, Pavers & Concrete Neptune Panels
2. Shotcrete And Hand-Carved Artificial Rock
Another method of creating rock waterfalls for pools is through the use of concrete forming and shotcrete. This method often costs the most simply due to the amount of preparation, labourers, and materials used not to mention the ongoing maintenance to repair cracks, chips, and leaks commonly caused during the winter. This is the most common method of creating artificial rock water features simply because concrete pool contractors already deal with shotcrete. It does have the potential to look very nice in the hands of expert artisans.
Tropical Pool by Durham Photographers Steven Paul Whitsitt Photography
3. Fiberglass Rock Panels
One method of creating a lightweight, cost-effective, and easily customizable custom rock waterfall or fountain is by using a blend of fiberglass and natural materials. This method is the least common for creating rock water features. WaterfallNow adopted this method simply because nobody else was doing it. The thickness can be adjusted depending on the application.
While similar to the GFRC panel method, this method is different due to the rock texture which is a clone of the original rock face capturing deep grooves, and edges of real cliffsides. Attempting to recreate these patterns carved out of concrete would produce less than appealing results.
Although it requires much more cutting, bending, shaping, and many hours of practice to get right, we find that it has the most potential. The cost can be 20-50% less than the other methods.
This gives you two options. Firstly you can expect a cost of 20-50% less than what you would normally pay. Secondly, you can spend the same amount yet get much more bang for your buck. An example would be the option to choose additional lighting, spillways, or a larger sized rock.
Does your backyard look more like a jungle than a townhouse complex? If so, a custom rock waterfall just might be your next big project. The sooner you start planning, the sooner you can enjoy spending time in your private oasis.
Tropical Pool by Grapevine Landscape Contractors One Specialty Landscape Design, Pools & Hardscape
Laminar Water Jet Fountain
Laminar water jets are a commonly used water feature for modern pool designs. Some models can be programmed to change colors and turn on and off at different intervals creating a mini water show.
Contemporary Pool by Plano Pools & Spas Pool Environments, Inc.
While these images do not properly show their effects, when a laminar water jet with LED lighting penetrates the pool surface, it also lights up the pool area with the same color of LED light used. A blue LED laminar jet would light up the pool surface and cast a blue glow. These water features can be used in conjunction with custom rock waterfalls or for clean modern pool designs as shown in the previous image above.
Sheer Descent Waterfall Spillways and Weirs
There are several types of spillways that go well with luxury pools
Acrylic Waterfall Spillway Stainless Steel Waterfall Weir
Natural slate stone pieces combined with natural rock are sometimes used as well
The more common black plastic waterfall pond kits are not common with luxury backyard pool designs.
There are hundreds of different designs and even infinite possibilities if you contract a custom stainless steel fabricator.
One of the most important things to include is a high quality LED light strip. Ask any landscape designer what is the one easiest thing you can do to drastically improve the look and feel of a yard and they might mention lighting. At least from our own personal experience, proper lighting (underwater lights even) can make the biggest difference.
The following image is an example of what a waterfall sheer might look like. It does not appear to have any LED lighting installed near the outlet however you can see the use of an anti-splash mat where the rocks hit the base.
Contemporary Landscape by Saint Clair Shores Landscape Contractors Pondering Waters, LLC
Traditional Pool by Richmond Hill Pools & Spas The Pool Craft Company
Now that you have no excuse not to know what to look for, why not head over to Houzz, Pinterest, or your local luxury pool water features specialists website and browse further ideas?
Planning a custom-built luxury pool with water features and would like a quote? Get in touch with WaterfallNow and ask about our new offerings. We will send an inhouse designer to the site (not a salesperson) to provide you with a solid quote as early as the next day. Our prices are fair across the board and considered to be the most affordable.
Other worthy mentions: fountains, cobra stainless steel spillway, bubbler fountain, rain curtain (very ‘pretty’), rain effect water sheer, water overflow from basins.
Did we miss something? Feel free to make a recommendation.
LED Weirs, And Waterfall Spillway Ideas
Waterfall Weirs (also called waterfall spillways and descent waterfalls) are a simple yet elegant way to decorate your yard.
Here is a sample video of a waterfall spillway using a stainless steel product made in North America.
Waterfall spillways ideas and possibilities are endless. They can be used in a wide variety of places – even built into the roof shown in this example.
Water sheers and weirs are typically made from metal such as stainless steel, from acrylic, plastic, or fiberglass. It is highly recommended to find one that comes with built-in LED lighting as this is what gives them that amazing look. Newer models offer brighter lighting effects that can be seen during the daytime as well and that much more spectacular at night. Remote controlled waterfall kits are available at various pond supply shops and manufacturers. They can also be found on Amazon or Ebay with free shipping.
Need advice for installation? How-to (DIY) videos are readily available online to assist you in decorating your new design. Whether you plan to add a waterfall to a commercial property, backyard pool, or even indoors, the waterfall spillway is a compliment magnet producing great sound and ambiance throughout.
WaterfallNow carries a selection of waterfall weirs with interchangeable LED including RGB with remote. Email for a quote or send photos of your project for some free waterfall spillway ideas.
Backyard Design Ideas
These backyard design ideas were specifically selected based on popularity.
There has been a growing trend towards home improvement in recent years. Many home owners armed with the internet are beginning to educate themselves on how to do a lot of the home renovation work that was formerly carried out by a contractor. The following photos will give you popular backyard design ideas for pools, retaining walls, and patios.
One of the first things that comes to mind for a lot of ‘luxury homes’ is the question of whether or not to add a pool.
This should be done early on rather than after a few years as it will generally take up a large amount of real estate. If it is something that you can maintain and will have enough occasions for its use then go for it. One recommendation for modern homes is the addition of geometric pool designs. Pools are not only perfect for entertaining guests but can also transform the ambiance altogether. You can’t help but smile when swimming in a private luxury resort-like setting.
Infinity pools are appealing in many ways. When facing the ocean, they can sometimes make you feel like the pool is somehow connected and you are swimming in the ocean.
There are many different pool design ideas
There are an unlimited number of possible ideas which is the hardest part of any project. One potential idea shown in the photo below is to have water cascading down a natural slope into the pool. If you live in an area where this can be pulled off, it can look pretty amazing.
Waterfall spillways (also called sheer, weird, or descent) are a popular pick for many pools. The beauty of this product is its simplistic design. It can become the focal point of the pool especially at night with build-in LED lighting to make the water appear as if it is glowing as it drops.
Water jets (laminar design) with LED lighting are gaining popularity with many pool owners all around the world. They are another simple yet impressive design that looks great in the day and really shines at night.
Is your backyard naturally sloped? Consider looking at different retaining wall design ideas.
One common solution to maximizing the space of small and sloped yards is found by adding retaining walls.
Here are some of the benefits of adding retaining walls to your backyard.
1. Retaining walls can help to prevent flooding during heavy downpours.
2. Maintenance requirements on level surfaces are reduced and less difficult.
3. Helps to prevent property damage by keeping soil in place.
4. Will help to reduce or prevent flooding with the water less likely to funnel down the hill.
5. Makes the yard look bigger.
Contemporary Landscape by Chester Landscape Architects & Landscape Designers TERRIGENOUS Landscape Architecture
Of course there are more benefits than listed and many home owners opt for retaining walls on flat surfaces for different design ideas.
The alternative to this would have been just a regular lawn. This is a fine example of what you can achieve with a well-built retaining wall.
Modern style concrete retaining walls look great when mixed in with some plants.
There is always the false rock look. This one in particular was created with rebar and carved out shotcrete. Concrete has its own unique look but is better suited for less harsh weather conditions. (Freeze-thaw and heavy rain can quickly damage the rock.)
Backyard Patio Design Ideas
This is one of the most important aspects and probably should have been mentioned first. There is no reason to go through all the hassle of designing a backyard in the first place if you don’t intend to spend time in it is there?
Flagstone patios look great. They aren’t well suited to cold climates but as long as proper mortar is used, won’t be as prone to cracking.
Choosing the right patio building materials to suit your home and garden can be a daunting task.
Mediterranean Patio by Lindenhurst Garden & Landscape Supplies Nicolock Paving Stones and Retaining Walls
Patio With Fireplace by Hillside Developments, West Vancouver
Continuing on the previous thought, it is recommended to choose a product that matches the home, plants, and retaining walls.
Well, we hope these backyard renovation design ideas have helped you. Let us know about your own design ideas in the comments section below and feel free to share this article if you found it helpful.
Searches related to backyard design ideas
backyard design ideas on a budget: Cheap and affordable backyard landscaping design ideas
small backyard design ideas: Small yard design solutions. Common for many waterfront properties.
backyard design ideas without grass: If you are looking for a very low maintenance solution consider going with artificial turf, gravel, rocks, mulch, soil, paving stones, and plants.
landscaping ideas: Easy landscaping design ideas suitable for a wide-variety of projects
backyard design software: Try some free landscaping design software. Try a download-free demo http://www.showoff.com
backyard design ideas for dogs: Are you a pet lover? Check out some of these dog-friendly designs. Also be sure to check out cesarsway.com for any dog-related advice you may be in need of.
backyard design ideas with pools: Check out top best lists of backyard pool design ideas.
backyard design ideas for small yards: Smaller yards can be even more amazing and provide the comfort you seek than larger yards without requiring as much maintenance.
Backyard Pool Ideas
Check out some of the hottest backyard pool ideas featuring grottos, pools, lazy rivers, and waterfalls.
For more ideas an inspiration check out Houzz.com
How To Keep The Water In Your Pool Crystal Clear
Whether you have a luxury pool or one made on a small budget, having a clean pool is essential. When it comes to pool maintenance, prevention is better than cure. Nobody wants to swim around in a disease ridden pool.
Watch this video to learn how to keep the water in your pool crystal clear while also saving tons of money on pool maintenance.
Have you considered upgrading your pool? WaterfallNow builds and installs artificial rock waterfalls for pools, LED lighting, and waterfall spillways/weirs/sheers.
Luxury Pools: Custom Swimming Pools Vancouver Edition
There are several dozen custom pool builders specializing in all things luxury pools in the Lower Mainland, BC, Canada.
Materials used can range from vinyl, gunite, fiberglass and so forth. They are perfect for country clubs, swim clubs, hotels, residential, or commercial properties. You will need to speak with your local pool contractors who are familiar with the bylaw and other distinct requirements of that particular geographical location. Most pool buyers will get a quote and reach a decision 1-2 years later. Outdoor pools which are seasonal (exposed year-round) can optimized for low maintenance and maximum up-time. Hiring the right contractor who refuses to compromise quality for speed will often spare you from the headaches of having to redo a project.
While most pools that you would consider to be nice will range from $30,000-$50,000, it isn’t uncommon for the cost of luxury pools to exceed $1 million dollars. In fact, when it comes to the homes of celebrities, most do. In some cases, we have even seen backyard pools, waterfalls, and water features cost more than the homes themselves.
Photos of Luxury Pools
Contemporary Pool by Chantilly Pools & Spas Lewis Aquatech
Tropical Landscape by Manchester Landscape Contractors Outdoor Living Systems
Custom pool designers can create infinity pools, perimeter overflows, tropical pools, salt-water pools, contemporary designs, freeform designs, custom spas, grottos, and much more. In many cases, custom pool designers either work alongside a loyal subcontractor who specializes in custom waterfalls but more often will use their own inhouse crew. Some will offer outdoor living designs such as outdoor kitchens, fire pits, landscaping, and more. Not matter who you are dealing with, even the best companies will not be able to carry out a proper job with an improper bid.
Traditional Pool by Chantilly Pools & Spas Lewis Aquatech
Tropical Landscape by Manchester Landscape Contractors Outdoor Living Systems
Luxury pools, ponds, waterfalls, and landscaping projects are all reliant on the experience, and craftsmanship of the set of contractors employed for the specific task. No amount of a company’s reputation will ever change that fact. The key to success is in finding the company which has dedicated and loyal contractors working with the same company to stand behind their work. This is where you will see the best quality of work. Ideally everybody should be on the same page from when the permits are approved to when you are swimming in your pool.
Eclectic Pool by Plano Pools & Spas Pool Environments, Inc.
Tropical Landscape by Manchester Landscape Contractors Outdoor Living Systems
Tropical Pool by Grapevine Landscape Contractors One Specialty Landscape Design, Pools & Hardscape
Traditional Pool by Plano Pools & Spas Pool Environments, Inc.
Living Room by BC’s Waterfall Contractors WaterfallNow
Mediterranean Pool by Edmond Landscape Architects & Landscape Designers CAVINESS LANDSCAPE DESIGN, INC.
Do you have a dream luxury pool renovation project in mind? If so, feel free to contact WaterfallNow to explore potential options and view physical samples. The products we manufacture provides home owners with the most cost effective method of achieving extremely large waterfall features to compliment any pool or garden.
Pool Rock Water Features: Advantages and Disadvantages
Pool rock water features can offer a variety of benefits to a homeowner
Things to consider are the type of buyer that would be interested in your home. If they like the idea of having a pool then having a custom-made water feature by the poolside will get them excited about investing in the property. On the flipside we have seen many new homeowners have a pool filled in because they did not want one.
Whether or not you should add a pool to the yard is something that requires a bit of knowledge of the surrounding area. It sounds simple but it is surprising how often builders forget to understand what type of buyer or demographic they are catering to. Sometimes the buyer doesn’t want or even care about owning a pool.
Keep in mind that there are different options to choose from ranging from concrete, GFRC, paneling, natural rocks, fibreglass, or plastic.
Advantages of having rock water features by the pool
- The white noise produced by a waterfall helps to drown out the sounds of nearby traffic
- The soothing sounds help to promote stress-relief and relaxation
- Help to increase the property value or appeal to home buyers
- They are a symbol of wealth as not everyone can afford them
- Makes for a private resort-like setting with the addition of a few palm trees
- Lasts for many decades with minimal down-time
- Can be enjoyed year-round or whenever you decide to have it turned on
- They require minimal maintenance to operate (ensure water level is maintained and pump is replaced every several years)
- Can be customized with your favorite lighting, shapes, designs, and colors
- An affordable luxury that can be purchased for the same price as a designer purse or piece of jewellery
- Receive many compliments
Disadvantages of pool rock water features
- They aren’t viewed as an investment to the average consumer
- May require a permit which can be difficult to get if using heavy materials, drilling into natural rock, and so forth.
- Same as above, depending on the type of material used, if a mistake is made during the construction, you can end up with expensive maintenance issues
- The cost of maintaining a pool may surprise first time pool owners who may be too busy to do their own maintenance The small amounts do add up over time. A pool rock water feature that flows into the pool will require extra maintenance and care
- Jealous neighbors that will try to 1-up you with a bigger one
- Expect high shipping fees for products purchased outside of Canada
Advantages of WaterfallNow’s Pool Rock Water Features
- We take care of the maintenance with one phone call
- Lightweight with no permit requirements
- Simple to install
- No large trucks or machine equipment required
- Custom-designs that can be changed during the formation process
- Small working crews which reduces cost to the consumer
- Any lighting, or other custom materials such as water sheers and spillways can be incorporated into the design
- No limit to the size, shape, or design
- Operates in all 4 seasons
- Does not need to be operated on an ongoing basis like most water features
- Remote control switch on or off
- Competitive pricing for custom work
- Can be premade and shipped locally according to the designs you had in mind
- Artificial rocks made with fibreglass to capture the realistic indentations seen on real rocks
- Pondless waterfall designs that recirculate water over and over for reduced maintenance
