Add a Tanning Shelf to your Swimming Pool

A tanning shelf is an extensive shallow section in a pool where swimmers relax and enjoy breathtaking views. The area is often positioned close to the steps, and it affects the pool design and performance. Tanning shelves differ in shape and sizes, and once integrated with other design features like placement, length, and width; they primarily affect the appearance and management of the pool.

Stunning pool feature

President of Lorax Design Group, Kurt Kraisinger, views tanning shelves as quality architectural structures. Kraisinger says, “Our Company always recommends tanning shelves in every pool project we carry out. This area of the pool is enjoyable and the pivotal point of other activities around the pool.”

Founder of Ledge Lounger, Chris Anderson, acknowledges that he has seen the increase in tanning shelves over the years. His company has succeeded in establishing a significant market share through its unique tanning shelves and beach entries. He says, “Contracting companies are in love with our products because they offer beautiful sceneries. Pool owners love furnishing ledges since it gives them a resort-like view.”

On the other hand, Anderson confirms that tanning shelves have been existent for a long time, although he cannot figure out how they came to be. He says, “It’s quite fascinating, does the drinking fountain design explain the tanning shelf’s origin, or is it the other way round?” People’s demand for a certain kind of water led to the invention of the bubbler. Perhaps, when people noticed how they enjoyed the bubbler, they thought of creating something much larger.

Notwithstanding their origin, tanning shelves are currently one of the most approved elements. “We have a large population of young buyers with small children; maybe this explains its rising popularity. They are in all types of pools, fiberglass, vinyl liners, business, and domestic pools.”

David Owens concurs and states that he perceives tanning shelves as an opportunity to be creative. He says, “Tanning shelves offer the ideal location to install unique art. Tanning shelves designed with creativity are more attractive, and this is my blueprint. Our customers love them!”

Stepping, lighting and cleaning

Contrary to popular belief, cleaning the tanning pool area can be quite challenging. Why? A regular automatic pool cleaner cannot sanitize the area because water has not extended far down into the pool. It is possible to clean this section using an in-floor cleaning system, although it’s costly. What’s the solution then? “Some constructors install returns on the sidewalls of the pool to ensure water flows over the ledge,” Anderson says. There is a high possibility for stagnation if there are no returns to move water over the ledge. Pool companies should, therefore, ensure all sections of the pool are purified and free from microorganisms.

At times, the tanning shelf can appear dark while the rest of the pool has excellent lighting. Pool owners should thus make sure there is proper lighting in this area. Anderson says, “Halogen lights are not a good idea. Instead, small LED lights will be awesome in lighting the ledge. Installing the lights does not take much effort. If the customer desires to use the area at night, you have to consider lighting.”

Kraisinger states that you need to discuss the depth of the ledge with your customer because it impacts the surface’s appearance compared to the deeper parts of the pool. He says, “It is advisable to choose a gloomy shade where it’s not evident and distinguish it with products that are noticeable like glass tile.” Additionally, Owen says that artistic features can tamper with safety.

As a pool builder, it’s good to design the shelf in such a way users can see the end of the shelf.

Eugene, Oregon, designer/builder, david owens

Most shelves have high-friction materials like exposed aggregate since there are usually many people hanging out in this area. Pool owners should thus ensure a reliable surface foundation on shelves because accidents can quickly happen in such areas. Tanning shelves also serve as play areas for children; therefore, surfaces should be of high friction.

Depth and dimension

A right tanning shelf floor is between 4 to 18 inches. Choosing the most appropriate pool depth and dimension is a crucial decision. “We help our customers choose tanning shelves designs,” Anderson says. Designs are often influenced by the latest trends depending on a location. He says, “The depth and dimension vary across different geographical locations due to climatic conditions. As a result, there is no uniform design for tanning shelves, which explains why we create many products for distinct sizes.”

Pool builders have to apply certain logic when coming up with a tanning shelf size. Some customers enjoy relaxing in deeper parts of the pool. Other customers desire to read, take pictures, and sit thus will prefer shallow tanning shelves. Owen says, “The water in shallow tanning shelves is much warmer, and our end users enjoy it.”

The purpose and style of the pool both affect the size and shape of tanning shelves. Kraisinger says, “Owners prefer a large tanning shelf where their users can sit, relax, and enjoy the sun, especially on a sunny day if it’s a pool meant for business purposes. Homeowners, on the contrary, choose the dimensions based on the size of their pool area.”

Basic construction

As seen from this article, tanning shelves are constructed across various types of pools. Today, builders of fiberglass pools provide designs inclusive of tanning shelves. On the other hand, package pool constructors provide “liner over steps” incorporated into most pool designs.

If your geographical area has extensive soil, you will put in a lot of effort to prepare a good foundation for pool construction. Additionally, the shelves should be built with respect to the soil characteristics, among other factors. “The shelf has to be constructed according to the standards of a normal pool,” Anderson says. It is important to note that the more you excavate the less money you will spend on pool construction. If the shelf is enormous, a point of strain could occur if you have underground movement.” Ultimately, Anderson has never heard of anyone who needs any unique building technique throughout his experience in the industry.