When it comes to pool protection, you have two major options. It’s either a swimming pool enclosure or a cover; undoubtedly, both are dependable. However, there are some particular benefits to picking an enclosure.
A swimming pool enclosure is an impressive structure. You’re carving out the area around your pool, creating a much more enjoyable outdoor space. At the same time, you keep the water safe from dirt, debris, and other harmful external elements as a cover would. But, unlike a cover, the enclosure ensures your pool stays in view and not hidden away.
You can set up a swimming pool enclosure using different motion mechanisms. However, we recommend employing a linear actuator device for the best efficiency. Read on to learn more about how it works.
Also Read: Tarp or pool cover? The Perfect Winter Safety Pool Covering to Use
Automate Your Swimming Pool Enclosure with a Linear Actuator
A swimming pool enclosure isn’t something to handle manually as it’s a large construction. You need an automated mechanism to retract the enclosure when accessing the pool. Likewise, the structure should glide back in place when you’re done swimming. Such back-and-forth motion is seamless to implement with a linear actuator.
Linear actuators work by converting electrical energy into straight motion. In more technical detail, the device operates using a screw, nut, and an electric motor. Once you switch on the power source, it rotates the screw, which moves the nut to create a linear motion. With this simple operation mode, a linear actuator can easily control your swimming pool enclosure.
Consequently, your enclosure becomes easier to use when you set it up with a linear actuator. The device will typically feature a switch or remote control. Press the controller or remote button, and the enclosure will open or close, depending on your intent.
You won’t deal with slipping or poor positioning with a linear actuator. On the contrary, these devices are precise. In fact, you can particularly program the direction, angle, speed, and distance you want the actuator to follow. That means they’re usable for any swimming pool enclosure size or shade.
It’s worth noting, too, that linear actuators are durable. Since the application is near a water body, moisture can wear off the enclosure’s mechanism. But that’s less likely with actuators, as the devices don’t rust easily. If you find working with linear actuators interesting, here are more ways to use actuators in home automation.
Picking the right actuator
You’ll need a heavy-duty linear motion device for your swimming pool enclosure. It’s not questionable because, irrespective of the design or shape, any structure that goes over your pool will be large. Also, you’ll need an actuator with a long stroke length since it’ll travel a lengthy distance. You can go for track devices with fixed travel distances and connect them to the sliding rail.
Furthermore, pay attention to the power source. As stated, the actuator uses an electric motor, but it can be AC or DC. DC motors have the power and force to push a swimming pool enclosure, so they’re the best. You just have to deal with more wiring during installation, of which you can seek help from an expert electrician.
Best Material for A Swimming Pool Enclosure
Several materials can work for your swimming pool enclosure. However, we recommend fiberglass as the best. That’s because it’s a strong and durable material that won’t deteriorate easily due to weathering and corrosion. At the same time, fiberglass is lightweight. So, if you ever need to transport your swimming pool enclosure, it’ll be easy.
Furthermore, you can easily bend and twist fiberglass into various shapes. This means it’ll work for your enclosure, irrespective of the size of your swimming pool. Regarding appeal, fiberglass also scores high, as it’s a translucent material. Natural light passes through it, making the atmosphere inside your enclosure more interesting. Finally, using fiberglass, you’ll spend less time, effort, and money maintaining your swimming pool enclosure.
Types of Swimming Pool Enclosure
We’ve established that a linear actuator is best for your swimming pool enclosure. That settles the mechanism question. Now, you need to decide on the enclosure design, and we will explain some top options below.
Retractable roofs
Here’s the enclosure type exemplified in previous explanations. It’s like building a cage for your pool, but it retracts completely when you want to swim. You can construct the enclosure using a steel wire net. That way, you enjoy natural light and ventilation when inside. However, still ensure the roof has some covering, even if transparent.
Sliding panels
A sliding panel enclosure is workable if you don’t want to seal off your swimming area completely. It allows partial opening, which adds its own aesthetics. You can construct one using a linear actuator and a track system. The latter is essential to actualize the sliding effect. For the construction material, fiberglass, aluminum, or polycarbonate will do, but, as stated earlier, fiberglass is best.
Folding doors
With a folding door, you won’t have to retract the full enclosure. In other words, the linear actuator will only control the door, and you can build one using a regular door design. Perhaps, the main advantage of this type of swimming pool enclosure is that it offers the easiest access to the pool. This is evident as it’ll take an actuator less time and power to pull a door than an entire structure.
Telescopic domes
Domes always make an interesting design for home coverings. With this style, you can build a swimming pool enclosure and give your surroundings an antique look. This style works best for large pools and, in most cases, circular or oval-shaped. Hence, a telescopic mechanism works best to open and close the dome. Rod-style linear actuators are telescopic, making them a perfect fit for this application.
Conclusion
Protect your swimming pool using an enclosure, and make things easier with an automated mechanism. It’s hard work if the motion to open and close the enclosure is carried out manually. So, employ a linear actuator, as explained. The device will work irrespective of the swimming pool enclosure type you construct.
