| Currently the two main types of low profile swimming pool enclosure on the market are the original tracked enclosures, and now more recently, the trackless enclosures.
But which one will be best for you?
To try and answer this question, and to make this comparison a little easier we’ve compared two models; the tracked K1000, and the trackless KT1000. They can both be found on this site. The enclosure comparison is based on the following criteria:
1. Easy of use
2. Product performance
3. Aesthetics
4. Design and construction
5. Flexibility, and Price.
Firstly; 1. Ease of use
Whilst both enclosure are relatively effortless to open and close, the Tracked enclosure probably has the edge in terms of how easy the enclosure is operate. The tracked enclosure only requires one person to open and close, whereas the trackless enclosure really needs two people. This ensures the enclosure does not become misaligned by being pushed from one side only.
2. Product performance
In terms of performance, and heat retention and absorbtion, both pool enclosure types are pretty much equally matched. They both provide great insulation properties due to the nature they are both low profile, minimizing the amount of air space above the pool surface. This feature also helps in terms of ease of use, and general product maintenance, and cleaning etc.
3. Aesthetics
The aesthetics of the products vary in two ways. Firstly is the materials used, and the second is how high or visible they are as structures. For some buyers, aesthetics are a high priority, in which case the Trackless enclosures tend to win. The Trackless enclosures incorporate clear Plexiglas with double walled polycarbonate. The clear Plexiglas material gives the pool enclosures a visually lighter feel, due to the fact you can easily see into the pool from both the sides and ends when the enclosure is closed. The tracked enclosures on the other hand use just the Polycarbonate throughout the roof and ends. Additionally the Trackless pool enclosures are somewhat lower profile than the Tracked models (maximum heights of between 1.3m-1.5m). However this however lower profile can be perceived as a disadvantage in terms of easy access to the pool when the enclosure is on. A final consideration for some people is actually the presence of tracks around the pool surround, although the tracks themselves are low profile.
4. Design and construction
Both these enclosure types are of a fully tested robust construction. However the Tracked enclosures only need a lighter framework, because the tracks themselves are part of the overall construction, and the Modules are fixed to the tracks providing additional robustness and resilience to high winds. The Trackless enclosures by contrast require a more substantial framework to provide rigidity and robustness. With both enclosures, the Modules can be locked down when not in use, or you are away from your house, to provide additional security and protection for your pool.
5. Flexibility
With flexibility, there is no clear winner, as although they operate in a slightly different way, offering different levels of flexibility.
The Trackless enclosures have the benefit of doors at both ends for ease of access. They can also be opened either way on your pool, and can be easily moved totally away from your pool in the Summer to provide all round access to your pool. Whereas the Tracked pool enclosures offer something different in terms of flexibility.
Because each of the Modules runs on its own track, you do have the flexibility of partially opening just one or two of the Modules. This gives you the benefit of just being able to enjoy some protection from cool winds by keeping the end Modules in place, and yet still have open air swimming, by opening the centre one or two Modules. The tracked enclosures can also be moved completely away from our pool edge by opting for the track extensions.
Price
If price is your major priority, then Tracked pool enclosures come out top. For a 10m x 5m pool the Tracked enclosures are currently around £7,800, whereas the Trackless is approximately £9,800. These prices are current at January 2009 and are inclusive of VAT and Delivery to mainland UK.
If you’re still unsure of which is right for you and would like to discuss it further then please do get in touch with us and we’ll be happy to help. Please contact info@ukpoolenclosures.co.uk or call 0800 756 6216. |
