Don Vandervort, Head Homeboy, has written more than 30 DIY home improvement books, been a segment host on HGTV, served as MSN.com's home improvement expert and written countless magazine articles.
Before you decide to put in a swimming pool slide, check your local codes; slides in your region may be prohibited, or only certain types may be allowed.
If you are permitted to install a slide, it is imperative that it be firmly affixed, meaning the hardware should sink deep into concrete. If you are adding one to an existing pool, the best method is to have a professional attach it by cutting out a section of concrete, installing the hardware, and pouring fresh concrete. If a slide begins to wobble even a little, have the professional who installed it return to rectify the installation.
Sizes & shapes Pool slides are available in a wide variety of shapes, some with names such as “Vortex” or “Rocket Ride.” Choose a slide that is safe for your youngest but is also interesting enough for your children as they grow.
Straight slides are rarely sold anymore, not only because they do not provide enough chills and thrills but also because they take up more space than a slide that snakes around. If you have limited area, choose a slide that runs parallel to the pool’s edge for most of its length. Also, make sure the water is deep enough for the slide’s speed or a slider may have a painful brush with the pool bottom. The manufacturer should tell you the minimum depth for each model of slide.
In addition to a standard open-topped slide, you can also buy units with a tube, similar to (but much shorter than) those in a water park.
Materials While older slides had metal stairs, most slides these days are made entirely of molded acrylic, PVC, or fiberglass with a slippery, high-gloss finish. Railings are typically made of stainless steel. A bright-colored slide may be an attractive design choice, but its steps can get hot in bright sunshine; a lighter color is more practical.
Running water A slide will be more slippery and refreshing if water is running down it. Running a hose or a plumbing line from the house is a good idea only if you will be running the water occasionally; otherwise, you will be wasting water. If you want to run water down the slide for long periods, hook up a line to the pool’s circulation system. Be aware, however, that on a sunny day a good deal of water will evaporate and then you may need to add water to the pool.
