As the wellness industry continues to evolve, staying on top of design trends and newer technologies entering the industry is a must. While the use of stainless steel in spas and pools is not a new solution, construction and installation methods have evolved to the stage that it is now a practical, viable and financially competitive alternative to spas and swimming pools made of other materials.
Why stainless steel is fast becoming the preferred material in new pool construction
In this post, we delve into some of the key benefits and advantages of building a spa or pool or transforming an old spa or pool using this robust and remarkable material.
1. Versatile and Durable
Stainless steel is ideal for use in a swimming pool, spa pool or hydrotherapy pool. It is one of the most durable, resilient and trouble-free materials on the planet. It does not age and actually has a “self-healing” corrosion resistant film on its surface, making it impervious to frost, heat and UV radiation. Unlike other pool materials, stainless steel when properly maintained, will not tear, crack, peel, erode or fade even when it comes to more extreme weather conditions. With its high strength, light weight (about a third compared to concrete shells), and watertight construction, stainless steel is also the perfect solution for elevated, upper floor and rooftop installations as well as for projects with challenging environments.
2. Customisable
The significant advantage of using stainless steel is that it can be shaped, moulded, laser-cut and welded into a myriad of forms to fit a spa or pool specification exactly and still maintain its durability and strength throughout. This enables everything from size, shape, depth and equipment (such as hydromassage jets, steps, handrails and fixings) to be fully customised to any requirements a client may have, making it a popular choice with hotels and leisure facilities and wellness and rehabilitation centres.
3. Retrofitting and Refurbishment Options
A stainless-steel spa or swimming pool is an excellent option for cost-effective retrofits and shape modifications because of the design flexibility. The ability to custom design, pre-engineer and manufacture a spa or pool shell to almost any shape and size makes it much easier to install when replacing or transforming an old, tiled spa or concrete pool. Where a spa or pool shell is in poor condition or looking a little bit tired, the good news is that it can be brought back to its former glory. In much the same way as installing a new vinyl pool liner, in most cases a concrete spa or pool can be ‘lined’ with stainless steel avoiding the need to remove the old tiles. Stainless steel can also be combined with other materials such as tiles, glass and acrylics to create a totally bespoke and stunning finish.
4. Shorter Build Time
Using prefabricated sections or one-piece construction enables a pool to be built in less time than it takes using conventional construction methods. Where poor weather can often hold up concrete spa or pool installations, using stainless steel presents less of a barrier. Stainless-steel vessels can also be filled within hours of the installation being completed.
5. Decreased Costs and Increased Savings
The initial cost of stainless steel may be slightly higher, but the cost over time and the cost involved in preparing a site will be less especially if converting an old spa or pool. Quicker installation and shorter on-site construction time will reduce installation costs. Reduced weight and footprint may also result in a cost reduction. As stainless-steel vessels are around a third of the weight of concrete, this offers the benefit of needing fewer foundations in the case of a new build, or of not adding to existing foundations in the case of a retrofit or refurbishment.
Compared to other finish materials, stainless steel provides substantial reductions in routine operating costs. It requires much less in the way of maintenance and repairs and fewer chemical cleaners and treatments are needed to keep a pool or spa looking great and performing as it should. With no possibility of leaks, both water consumption and energy costs are also reduced.
6. Hygienic
Thanks to its naturally hygienic composition, stainless steel is a great choice for pools and spas. Unlike tiled and concrete pools or spas where the large number of tile joints and the porosity of the materials used increase the risks of microorganisms (including bacteria, viruses, algae, and mould), the surface properties of stainless steel significantly reduce this.
7. Recyclable and Environmentally Friendly
Stainless steel is completely recyclable making it one of the most environmentally responsible and sustainable materials used in manufacturing. And it can be recycled numerous times without any degradation or loss of its original properties.
Wrapping Up
Favoured by designers, architects and builders, its strength and its flexibility, its stylish and dynamic finish and its ability to blend with a wide variety of architectural surroundings (both modern and traditional settings) make stainless steel an ideal choice for pool use. Its smooth surface gives the spa pool a fresh, visually striking and sleek finish that exudes luxury, enticing developers, hoteliers and homeowners looking for that ‘wow’ factor. While its longevity, ease of maintenance, its hygienic properties and its recyclability will appeal to those looking for the benefits beyond pure aesthetics.
Stainless Steel Pool & Spa Solutions
Here at Topline Pools and Wellness, we have a wealth of knowledge and expertise in the design, engineering and construction of bespoke, made-to-measure stainless-steel swimming pools and spa pools for the hotel and spa industry as well as the growing domestic market. If you’re looking to refresh a dilapidated tiled spa or pool and turn it into a stunning feature that lasts for decades, or to create a new bespoke pool that achieves the perfect balance between design and function, stainless steel could be a great option for you. Get in touch today to find out more!
