Pool Slides

There is really no absolute, written rule that states that pool slides should only be used in water theme parks, or in public swimming pools. Yet such a rule is somehow strictly followed by almost all pool owners. What’s the deal? Thinking about adding more fun and excitement in the pool for the family should not be a problem at all. It’s nearly advisable to install one – it’s like bringing the water theme park to one’s own backyard.

Pool slides are known by many other names some people may be accustomed with. A swimming pool slide may also be called a sliding board, flume, or a hillside water slide. Waters slides also come in different sizes for application in virtually all pool sizes. Kid-sized ones are the safest to use where children are the main users of the pool. Longer water slides featuring many twists and turns can also be used in bigger pools. Slides that look aesthetically boring can be spruced up by adding water slide decals. Pre-designed stickers are available but personalize designs can be made with easily available water slide decal paper.

Installing backyard pool slides require not only some handiwork but also a few specific things interested pool owners should know. Pool slides with a simpler configuration can be a do-it-yourself. Giant water slides reaching lengths of up to 150 feet, however, mean calling on more suitable people for the job, such as pool professionals. They have the necessary training in this area and can mean less headaches for the non-handyman.

One of the most important things to know is that pool slides require a minimum water depth to avoid accidents. This prerequisite is dependent on manufacturer specification, but an example is 48” or 4 feet. Toddler slides may need less water depth. Using a pool slide may also require lubricating water and sometimes a separate water pump. A big backyard pool slide may require up to 20 gallons per minute and a 1/2-hp water pump.

People might be asking, “What if I have an above ground pool?” Well, that doesn’t pose a problem at all. Water slides for specific use with above ground pools are also available for purchase both in stores and on the internet. It is exciting to know that even without a swimming pool, children can still have fun with water slides in the backyard. Six Flags introduced an inflatable water slide with a built-in waterfall called Banzai. A similar product is the Bounce ‘Round Big Wave water slide. It has a weight limit of 200 pounds, though, so it’s strictly for kids.