Few options can match the elegance and sophistication of a perimeter overflow swimming pool. These beautiful aquatic features have become increasingly popular in high-end residential and commercial settings, offering a unique blend of aesthetics and functionality that elevates any outdoor space.
Perimeter overflow pools are known by some names, including rim-flow and zero-edge pools. They are also known as knife-edge pools. This name sometimes refers to vanishing-edge pools because the design uses a “sharp” edge to enhance the water visual of any vanishing edge. This name may refer to both pools because a perimeter overflow pool is built as a four-sided vanishing edge with a pool deck.
The water of a perimeter overflow pool sits flush with the surrounding deck, creating a mirror-like surface that reflects the sky and surrounding landscape. This design element produces a striking visual effect, making the pool appear as a sheet of glass or a tranquil lake on your property. Some might consider it a functional piece of art in their backyard.
The absence of visible edges gives these pools a sense of infinity, blurring the line between water and land. This seamless integration with the environment creates a sense of harmony and tranquility, perfect for those seeking a modern, sophisticated outdoor oasis.
Creating a perimeter overflow pool requires exceptional engineering and construction precision. To ensure an even water flow over all edges, the entire perimeter must be level, typically within a ¼” of tolerance. This level of accuracy is crucial for achieving the desired visual effect and maintaining proper functionality.
Water spills over the pool’s edges between the pool wall and deck into a hidden gutter designed to collect and recirculate the water back into the pool. Even this gutter system requires precision so the water will flow to the recirculation point.
Perimeter overflow pools can be built at deck level or raised. A raised perimeter overflow adds a dramatic architectural twist to the landscape and pool design. A raised perimeter overflow pool still has a gutter system to recirculate the water, but in this design, the water falls down the outside walls of the raised pool into the gutter system. The face of the raised walls of the rim flow pool can be finished with various materials. We have seen tile and stone products, but tile is the best option because it keeps the water flowing tightest against the face of the wall. Stone products tend to cause the water to splash beyond the slot, so water is lost, whereas a tiled face keeps the water closest to the wall, retaining more water.
We usually prefer the appearance of a white-based plaster product, but these pools look best with a darker interior pool finish. This visually makes the body of the pool disappear, enhancing the mirror-like effect of the water’s surface.
In addition to the visual appeal of a perimeter overflow, they also offer the sensory experience of a beautiful water feature. The water doesn’t cascade over the edge of the pool; it smoothly flows, creating a gentle sound of moving water and enhancing the ambiance of the pool area.
A perimeter overflow swimming pool is the pinnacle of luxury pool design and the clear choice for anyone who wants more than just a pool. If you want a pool that creates a beautiful aesthetic and ambiance in your backyard, this might be the one for you. You will pay more for a pool like this, but the investment is worth the added benefits.