You can certainly just jump into the swimming pool or do a cannonball, but how will you get out of the pool? The swimming pool contractors from Tipton Pools in Knoxville, Tennessee explain how to choose swimming pool steps that are the best for your unique family needs.

It doesn’t matter if you have an inground pool or an above-ground pool, you will need to choose steps to get into and out of the pool. The only reason you wouldn’t need steps of some sort is if your pool is a beach entry. A beach entry means you walk right into the pool and it gradually gets deeper — like a beach.

The type of pool steps will depend on the shape of the pool, whether it’s above ground or inground and the construction material of the pool will also be a determining factor.

How to choose swimming pool steps

Once you have chosen a pool construction material, its size, placement and myriad other decisions, you will already be in discussion about the type, placement and style of swimming pool steps. Here are a few things to keep in mind when you’re deciding whether you want steps, a ladder or beach entry.

  • Construction material plays a role. With gunite pools you can have the steps incorporated into the pool design (rather than having to have a ladder although you can still use a ladder with gunite)
  • Who will need to get into and out of the pool? Someone with a mobility issue? Children? This will play a role in the type of steps. Using in pool steps is easier than climbing a ladder for many people.
  • If you use a ladder, make certain it is tight enough to the wall that a child cannot get behind it.
  • If you have a lap pool or any type of long, thin pool you may want to have steps constructed in an L-shape so they don’t impede the long swim path.
  • In pool stairs are typically easiest for anyone and everyone to use.

Let’s talk about your 2022 pool project and discuss the best type of stairs or ladder for your pool project.