Did you know there are over 10.4 million home swimming pools in the US?
If you’re lucky enough to own one of them, no doubt you love those lazy days lounging by the water. And if you’re thinking of building a new pool for your home, you want to make sure it’s the pool of your dreams.
Many high-end resorts feature a beautiful (and relaxing) “Baja shelf” in their pools. Would you like to recreate that same look in the privacy of your backyard?
You can! It’s a water feature you’re sure to love, especially once it’s decked out with Baja shelf lounge chairs.
Ready to learn more? Read on!
What Is a Baja Shelf?
First of all, what exactly is a Baja shelf? (You might also hear it called a pool ledge, tanning ledge, or sun shelf.)
A Baja shelf is a raised platform inside the edge of the pool, submerged to a shallow depth of no more than a foot. It’s usually wide enough to hold a few chairs or chaise lounges.
The idea is to create the perfect ration of body parts in the water and body parts out of the water. That way you’re free to read, relax, or enjoy a drink while partially submerged in the cool water.
Of course, this shelf isn’t only for lounging (although it’s certainly perfect for it). It’s an ideal area for the kids to splash and play at a safe, shallow depth.
It’s also the perfect setting for entertaining, as your guests are free to socialize and relax without having to swim—unless they want to! It’s no wonder as many as one-third of all new pools are being built with a Baja shelf.
The Best Types of Baja Shelf Lounge Chairs
Now that we’ve talked you into a Baja shelf, let’s discuss the right type of furniture to place on it.
Unless you plan on hauling your Baja shelf lounge chairs in and out of the water every day, chances are you’ll leave them partially submerged on the shelf. For this reason, you need pool ledge chairs that are made to withstand being in the water all the time.
Avoid any chairs or furnishings that include:
- Aluminum
- Recycled materials
- Vinyl or plastic straps
- Sling fabrics or cushions
- Steel or metal hardware
Your best bet for a shelf chair is one made from 100% plastic resin and without a sling fabric seat. The absence of metal means you won’t have to worry about rust, while the plastic resin is naturally resistant to fading and sun damage.
As an alternative, you could also look for furniture that’s made from marine grade polymer (MGP). This is another material that’s naturally water-resistant and will last for many summers to come.
Are You Ready to Revamp Your Pool?
Whether you’re remodeling an existing pool or building a new one, you should consider adding a Baja shelf to the design. It’s sure to become your family’s favorite place to relax and play, especially once you add some comfy Baja shelf lounge chairs.
Are you lucky enough to live in the Houston area? Are you in need of a pool expert to bring your vision to life?
Click here to learn more about us and our personalized pool construction services. We look forward to working with you!
As top-rated Houston pool builders, we serve the counties of:
Walker, Montgomery, Grimes, Austin, Colorado, Washington, Calhoun, San Jacinto, Fort Bend, Waller, Wharton, Matagorda, Brazoria, Brazos, Galveston, Chambers, Jackson, Harris, Liberty, Hardin, Polk, Trinity, and Jefferson