Is your pool in desperate need of an upgrade? Maybe your kids have grown up and aren’t as interested in the pool anymore, or you’re ready to enjoy your pool in an entirely new way. You may want to consider installing a sun shelf.
Also known as a Baja shelf, tanning ledge, or tanning bench, a sun shelf is a shallow ledge that sits just around 9 to 12 inches below the water’s surface. If you’re on the fence, look at some of the benefits and drawbacks of adding this shelf to your pool here.
The Pros of Adding a Sun Shelf
Part of what puts sun shelves on the list of the top swimming pool design trends of 2023 is that they’re more than an aesthetic addition—they’re fun for everyone. Adults can easily lounge on the sun shelf with their little ones that are still getting acclimated to the water. It’s also a safety feature for children and pets. When a child or animal falls in the water, they tend to panic and don’t often know how to get out. This shelf is just high enough to give them a place to swim to and rest but low enough so that they don’t have to pull themselves out of the water.
You can also add extra seating to your sun shelf for more enjoyment. You can put swimming pool tables on them to beat the heat during a backyard barbecue. Or, if you’re looking to recline and relax, you can also place deck chairs on the ledge so that you can take a quick dip in the pool if you get too hot.
The Cons of Adding a Sun Shelf
For many people, the biggest drawback of adding a sun shelf to their pool is that the bigger it is, the less swimming space they have. This means that sun shelves aren’t for every pool, unfortunately. If you’re already working with a small pool and limited swimming space, then a sun shelf will overcrowd your pool. You can install a smaller sun shelf, but it may end up being more like a sitting ledge than a place to lounge.
Also, one of the more unforeseen drawbacks is that a sun shelf doubles as a large bird bath and may attract other animals as well. Animals look for ways to beat the heat just like you. If they have a shallow body of water, they may take a dip. If your pool isn’t enclosed, you may see an influx of dirt, debris, and possible animal feces.
Should You Add a Sun Shelf to Your Pool?
Now that you know the benefits and drawbacks of adding a sun shelf to your pool, should you take the plunge? Keep in mind that if you don’t have an enclosure over your pool or a pool cover, wildlife might make their way in. No one likes to tack a pool cleaning day onto their weekend. However, if you have the space and want to add a little more flair to your pool, a sun shelf can be a great addition. This is especially true for tan lovers or for parents that want to give their little one their own personal splash pad.
