Mobile pool decks

Mobile pool decks, also known as walkable pool covers or mobile terrace are quickly becoming one of the latest trends. The main reason is clear: maximizing pool space, whether in use or not. In fact, mobile pool decks are often referred to as “mobile terraces.”

ADVANTAGES OF A MOBILE POOL DECK

As mentioned, the main reason for the growing demand for mobile pool decks or wakable pool covers, is practicality, allowing full use of available space. Additionally, these covers offer several benefits:

• Safety. The cover increases pool safety by covering it and restricting access when the pool is not in use.
• Cleanliness and Less Maintenance. By covering the pool, the cover reduces dirt buildup, thus lowering maintenance needs.
• Increased Water Temperature. Covering the pool reduces water evaporation and helps retain, or even raise, its temperature.
• Aesthetic Appeal. In some cases, the design of the mobile pool deck adds beauty to the garden, becoming a visual asset.

TYPES OF WALKABLE POOL COVERS

Several types of walkable covers are available on the market, primarily divided into two main categories:

• Walkable Pool Covers designed for Leisure Use. This type best fits the “mobile terrace” concept, transforming the space into a fully functional area for leisure, like any outdoor terrace.
• Walkable Pool Safety Covers. These covers are designed to support a person’s weight but are not intended for daily activities.

Other types are based on how they operate:

• Manual Walkable Pool Cover. The user manually opens or closes the cover.
• Automatic Walkable Pool Cover. The cover opens or closes automatically, often with remote control or a mechanism integrated into the structure.

Covers are also classified by surface material, typically in one of these four categories:

• Natural or synthetic wood.
• Artificial grass.
• Polycarbonate or glass (transparent or translucent).
• Ceramic or porcelain, stone, etc.

MOVABLE POOL FLOORS

Another category worth mentioning is movable pool floors.

Unlike walkable covers that sit above the pool, a movable floor is inside the pool. It adjusts the pool depth by raising or lowering the floor level according to usage needs:

• For regular swimming, diving, or exercise, users set the floor at the maximum depth.
• For use by small children, people with limited mobility, or exercises where part of the body remains above water, users may prefer intermediate depths.
• When the pool isn’t in use, the movable floor is raised to ground level, effectively converting the area into a terrace.

TYPES OF MOVABLE FLOORS

The main classification for movable floors is based on their operating mechanism, with two common types:

• Hydraulic Movable Floor. The floor is raised or lowered by a hydraulic system located beneath it, which acts as a lifting platform.
• Pulley-Based Movable Floor. In this type, pulleys situated at the top lift or lower the floor via cables. The pulleys pull the floor up to decrease depth and release the cable to lower the floor.

The visible surface material must be suitable for permanent water contact, typically stone, ceramic, or porcelain with designs matching the pool and surroundings.

Given the increasing range of options available, careful analysis of each model’s features with professional guidance is essential.

DRAWBACKS OF MOBILE POOL DECKS AND MOVABLE FLOORS

The main drawback of these covers is their shape, which is usually rectangular or square. This works well with rectangular or square pools but becomes challenging with freeform pools. In such cases, options are limited to preset shapes or custom covers, if available, which can be costly.

Another significant drawback is the price. These systems remain pricier than other current cover options, such as telescopic covers or tarpaulins.