5 Different Types of Steps for Inground Pools

Adding pool steps creates several benefits for homeowners. They keep swimmers safe with a convenient entrance/exit point and provide a stunning visual appeal. Each step is customizable to suit your home’s exterior and style.

Homeowners can select from drop-in or built-in steps depending on what they require. As skilled swimming pool contractors, Solda Pools can provide you with the best options for your backyard.

The Types of Steps for Your Inground Pool

1.Bolt-on steps

Bolt-on steps have the benefit of being highly customizable. They are available in different colours, styles, and materials to match any outdoor decor perfectly. Furthermore, the steps are durable as they attach directly to your pool’s walls.

Placement

Homeowners can place them anywhere they choose within their pool’s shallow end. You can put them in the corner, along the perimeter, or inside your main walls for a corner step. Some styles provide seating options with or without spa jets.

Style

Available types include bullnose and cantilever coping styles. The bullnose style is curvier in design and works well with rounded geometric pool shapes. However, if you appreciate a more modern, minimalistic style, you may prefer the cantilever shape since it has cleaner lines.

Bolt-on steps have a traditional appeal. They provide a consistent appearance and an elevated visual aesthetic.

2. Vinyl over steps

For a higher-end look for your pool at a fraction of the cost, consider vinyl over steps. They recreate the expensive look of concrete while being soft and affordable. As experienced swimming pool contractors, we have the expertise and skill to install the steps under the liner to achieve this look, creating an attractive finish with limitless options.

Placement

These steps can be installed against a shallow wall, in the corner, in a full pool width (complete with sun ledge), and contain a straight or rounded edge. While most steps jut out from the pool, vinyl over steps rest inside your pool wall barriers. If space is a concern, many designs can attach to your pool’s exterior, which takes up minimal space.

Style

Technological advancements allow homeowners to incorporate flexible designs. They can add incredible features like bubblers, tanning ledges, or fountains to the design for an added wow factor.

3. Moulded steps

Moulded (in-wall) steps offer a durable, low-maintenance option. They provide safe and easy pool entry because they fully integrate into the step tread’s pattern. Moulded steps are affordable because of their lifetime manufacturer’s warranty. They contain high-impact materials and structural designs using engineered supports.

Placement

Moulded steps provide an extension in the pool’s shallow end from your main wall. Seating options are available with some designs, and you can incorporate spa jets as well.

Style

These steps come in different shapes and colours. You can select ones that complement your existing vinyl liner.

4. Ladders

While most homeowners would not consider a ladder as a step, they are classified as such and are a great option to consider. Basic ladders are affordable and easily removable. During the off-season, this means homeowners can remove the steps and easily add a pool cover.

Placement

Pool ladders have stainless-steel rails containing rungs going over the pool’s side. They are installed into the patio and are removable. The downside is they can make entry and exit challenging, particularly for people with mobility options.

5. White plastic steps

White plastic steps contain polymer and attach to pool walls. They are an affordable option that come with vinyl liner pools. They are durable, so there is little concern for punctures or tears.

Placement

Again, these steps can be attached to pool walls. Homeowners can place them anywhere in the shallow end for easy entry and exit.

Style

While they are durable, they aren’t always aesthetically pleasing. The white colour can quickly show dirt, you must customize the pool cover to fit over them, and algae grows on the edges.

Consider These Added Features

Step Jets and Returns

No single step type is better or worse for algae growth. Therefore, jets and returns are essential for water circulation and to keep the steps clean. Having good water circulation provides proper filtration, thus reducing algae formulation. However, your steps will be vulnerable to algae if poor water circulation exists.

Algae breeds in warm locations that provide ample sunshine. The water is warm in the top threads of pool steps, since shallow water heats quickly. Aside from being unsightly, step algae growth is dangerously slippery, making it vital to keep the pool brushed, clean, and circulated.

Sun and Tanning Ledges

These are popular step upgrades. They enhance the pool’s visual aesthetics, providing an extended shallow area perfect for a children’s play space or lounging. While there aren’t significant differences between the ledge types, they sit at different heights.

Tanning ledges rest 2-4” in the water. They provide equal depth from your first tread at the top of the steps. However, since a tanning ledge rests in exceptionally shallow water, it is difficult to clean and provides a breeding ground for algae. We do not recommend it as a first step depth.

Sun ledges make the perfect top step since they equal your second step. They rest in 8-12” of water, allowing users to take a single step into your pool. Swimmers take an additional step to reach the ledge. It creates a stunning visual effect.

A Swim Out

A swim-out provides a popular area to relax. It resides inside the pool, providing the perfect location for people to rest on the pool’s edge to cool off. They typically contain benches or sitting options.

One benefit of a swim-out is that it provides alternative exit and entry points without people going up and down steps in the shallow end. Different colours and types are available. Jets are recommended, as they will keep the area clean and comfortable.

Choose Solda Pools for Your Pool Design

If you’re looking to hire swimming pool contractors to design and install your dream pool, Solda Pools is your top choice. We offer an in-house design team dedicated to making your vision a reality. We custom-design each spa, pool, and landscape to reflect your style by incorporating your shape and size specifications.

We will work with you from initial consultation to completion, continually reviewing your needs and incorporating them into the plans. At Solda Pools, we believe in constant communication with our clients, resulting in superior customer satisfaction.

Contact us at 289-201-2487, email us at sales@soldapools.com or fill out our form for a free estimate.