The Pros and Cons of Pool Slides
- mike
- 1 day ago
- 4 min read
The Pros and Cons of Pool Slides
If you’re planning an inground pool, at some point the idea comes up:
“Should we add a pool slide?” And it makes sense. Slides are:
Fun
Eye-catching
A big hit with kids
But here’s the truth most pool companies won’t tell you: A pool slide is one of the most exciting features on day one… and one of the most underused features over time.That doesn’t mean it’s a bad choice.
It just means you need to think it through the right way. Lets dive into the pros and cons of pool slides
What Is a Pool Slide?
A pool slide is a fixed or integrated feature installed at the pool deck that allows users to slide into the water. They typically require:
A designated installation area
Adequate water depth
Plumbing for water flow (in most cases)
It’s not just an accessory—it’s a designed part of your pool layout.
The Pros of Pool Slides
1. It’s One of the Most Fun Features You Can Add
Let’s start with the obvious. Kids love slides.
Endless entertainment
High energy
Keeps people engaged
For families with younger kids: This can be the most-used feature—at least for a while.
2. Creates a “Destination” Backyard
A pool with a slide feels different.
More like a mini resort
More exciting for guests
More memorable for kids
It adds that “wow factor” that people talk about.
3. Encourages Outdoor Activity
Instead of:
Screens
Indoor time
A slide gives kids (and even adults):👉 A reason to be outside and active
4. Can Add Visual Interest
Some slides—especially larger or rock-style designs—become:
A focal point of the backyard
Water features
Elevated design
Natural stone integration
5. Great for Families with Younger Kids
If your kids are:
Elementary or middle school age
A slide can get a lot of use early on.
The Cons of Pool Slides
Now let’s talk about what people don’t always consider.
1. Usage Drops Off Over Time (This Is the Big One)
This is the most common reality.
At first: Everyone uses the slide. A few years later: Not so much. Why?
Kids get older
Novelty wears off
Preferences change
Many homeowners say:“We used it a lot at first… then barely at all.”
2. Requires Specific Depth and Space
Slides aren’t plug-and-play. They require:
Proper water depth
Safe landing area
Clearances around the slide
This can:
Limit pool design
Reduce usable space
Affect layout options
3. Takes Up Deck Space
Slides need a footprint. That means:
Less room for furniture
Less open deck area
More crowded layout
In tighter backyards, this becomes a real issue.
4. Adds Cost (More Than You Might Expect)
Between:
The slide itself
Installation
Plumbing
Structural considerations
👉 It can be a meaningful add-on cost
And you have to weigh that against:👉 How often it’ll actually be used.
5. Safety Considerations
Slides come with:
Rules
Supervision needs
Liability concerns
👉 Especially important with:
Younger kids
Guests
Some homeowners end up:👉 Restricting use more than expected.
6. Can Clash with Modern Pool Design
If you’re going for:
Clean
Modern
Minimal
👉 A slide can feel out of place
Especially:
Bright plastic slides
Bulky designs
7. Maintenance and Wear
Slides aren’t maintenance-free.
Water lines can clog
Surfaces can fade
Hardware can wear over time
👉 Not a huge burden—but something to consider.
Pool Slide vs No Slide
With a Slide
👉 Best for:
Younger families
High-energy use
Fun-focused backyard
Without a Slide
👉 Best for:
Clean design
Open space
Long-term flexibility
So… Is a Pool Slide Right for You?
✅ It’s a Good Fit If You:
Have younger kids
Want a fun, high-energy backyard
Don’t mind giving up some space
Are okay with potentially lower long-term use
Like the idea of a feature-focused pool
❌ It Might Not Be Right If You:
Want a clean, modern aesthetic
Have a smaller backyard
Prefer relaxation over activity
Are thinking long-term (10+ years)
Aren’t sure how much it’ll actually get used
THE MORAL OF THE STORY
Pool slides are fun. No question. But they’re also: One of the most short-term enjoyment features you can add. That doesn’t make them a bad choice. It just means:You need to be honest about how long they’ll matter to you. The best pool features aren’t the ones that look the most exciting. They’re the ones you’ll use consistently over time.If a slide fits your lifestyle right now—and you’re okay with it being a phase:
Go for it. If you’re unsure… You may be better off investing that space and budget elsewhere.
SHAMELESS CALL TO ACTION
If you are ready to dive in and explore the possibilities of fiberglass pool ownership don't hesitate to call Pool Pros today @ 920-771-0107. Our in house pool designers are waiting to help create the outdoor living area of your dreams. When Quality Counts, Count on Pool Pros.
AUTHOR BIO
Mike Bowers is the founder and owner of Pool Pros Inc. in Green Bay, Wisconsin. He has spent 29 years installing and servicing swimming pools throughout Northeast Wisconsin. Is an Advanced Certified Building Professional, Certified Service Professional, Licensed General Contractor, Father to 4 beautiful children and Husband to the one and only "PoolWife" Lysti.
HELPFUL LINKS
