Zero-entry pools feature a sloping entrance that transitions smoothly from land to water, allowing swimmers to enter the pool gradually and safely. It feels like wading into a lake or ocean from the beach, and that’s why zero-entry pools are also called beach-entry pools.
There are many reasons you might want a zero-entry beach. Maybe you fantasize about a private beach in your backyard, or adore the idea of entering the pool without stairs, ladder or a diving board. Or perhaps you want your pool to be accessible to all, including seniors, children, or those with disabilities, allowing them to go as far as they feel safe and comfortable in the water.
Zero-entry pools are already popular at modern hotels and resorts, but they can be installed in residential houses. But it’s worth noting that zero-entry pools demand a bigger space and a bigger budget to accommodate the gradual slope from the shallow part to the deep end of the pool.
This guide addresses all your questions about zero-entry pools in Florida. Let’s begin:
What is a zero-entry or beach-entry pool?
As mentioned above, zero-entry swimming pools have at least one side with a gradual sloping entrance. Sometimes, zero-entry pools don’t have stairs at all, while other times, there are steps starting when you are almost half-submerged in the water. The design is also popular as a beach-entry or walk-in pool.
The following table shows the differences between a zero-entry pool and a standard pool:
| Zero-entry pool | Traditional/Standard pool | |
| Design | Sloped gradual entry | Stairs or ladders for vertical entry |
| Acessibility | Easy and safe access for all, including kids, the elderly, and disabled persons | Challenging for people with disabilities |
| Cost | More expensive to build | Less expensive than zero-entry designs |
| Space | Needs more space | Can be built even in small spaces |
| Customizability | Highly customizable for themes like tropical, beach, etc. | Customizable, but mostly for shapes and sizes |
| Installation time | Longer | Faster |
| Suitable for | Luxury homes, hotels, and resorts | Residential use |
Pros of zero-entry pools
- Bring beach-inspired vibes to your place
- Looks unique and beautiful
- Provides a shallow area for kids to play in
- Easier to get into for older adults and anyone with mobility issues
- You can still add a ladder, stairs, or a diving board
- Supports in-pool furniture
Cons of zero-entry pools
- Require more space as the slope must be extended and gradual
- Can be more expensive to build.
- The shallow area can heat up quickly, leading to algae growth.
- It’s challenging to cover, which is crucial for maintaining water temperature and quality.
- Not ideal for laps due to a lack of an edge
- Can limit water sports like diving, which require deeper water
- Not all pool builders install them
Types of zero-entry pools
Zero-entry pools cannot be constructed using vinyl liners. Vinyl liners are ideally made for flat bottoms and vertical pool walls. The slope and continuously fluctuating depth make it challenging to stretch and fix the liner securely without causing damage or wrinkles.
So, you’re left with two popular choices: fiberglass and concrete. Concrete is by far the most popular option because it offers rich customizability options. You can create a pool that resembles an actual beach, complete with sand-colored stone and plaster.
A fiberglass beach-entry pool requires much less care than concrete and is incredibly durable. Additionally, they are available in various shades, including sandstone, ocean blue, and white. The biggest problem you may have is a size restriction, but this is true for all fiberglass pools. Fibreglass pools are pre-fabricated off-site and must be large enough (around 40×16 feet) to be transported on a truck to your house.
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How much does a zero-entry pool cost in Florida?
A zero-entry or beach-entry pool typically costs between $90,000 and $180,000. The actual price varies depending on various factors, including shape, size, material, and others.
How deep are zero-entry pools?
The shallow end of a zero-entry pool begins at a depth of zero and gradually deepens to 3 to 5 feet in the main swimming area. Some zero-entry pools feature deeper sections, reaching up to 6 or 7 feet, making them suitable for diving and recreational activities. The gradual slope typically stretches between 10 and 20 feet before reaching the swimming depth.
Ready to dive into a zero-entry pool?
As you see, zero-entry pools are much different from standard pools in terms of how they look and function. Additionally, their primary purpose is quite different—making pools easily accessible to all, including younger children, the elderly, and individuals with mobility issues. The biggest challenge is that not all pool builders are equipped to construct and install a zero-entry pool.
The good news—if you’re planning to own a zero-entry pool in Florida, Epic Watershapes can help you. We specialize in building all types of swimming pools, including beach-entry pools, for commercial properties, hotels, and homeowners. Contact us to discuss your requirements.
In the pool, you feel free, with no limits!