Pool Stools: Perfect 2025 Guide

 

Why Pool Stools Are the Ultimate Backyard Upgrade

Pool stools are specialized in-water seats that let you relax comfortably while staying cool. Here’s a quick guide:

Quick Pool Stool Guide:

• Built-in stools – Permanent seating integrated into your pool structure during construction
• Swim-up bar stools – Counter-height seating paired with pool-side bars for resort-style entertaining
• Materials – Gunite, tile, stone, and high-performance resin options available
• Weight capacity – Most support 275-300 lbs safely
• Installation – Best added during pool construction or major remodel

Resort pools feature swim-up bars for a reason. As one pool enthusiast put it: “I bought 4 of these stools and LOVE them!! It reminds me of the swim-up bar at the resort in Turks and Caicos.”

Pool stools transform your backyard into an entertainment hub, solving the problem of wanting to stay cool while comfortably sitting, socializing, and enjoying drinks. These seats come in various styles, from permanent built-in options to adjustable models. Whether you want a swim-up bar or just comfortable seating for parties, the right pool stool lifts your outdoor living space.

As David Brabant, owner of Creative Edge Pools with over thirty years in the industry, I’ve seen how pool stools can transform a basic pool into a resort-style oasis. The right seating, from custom gunite installations to remodels, can make your backyard the neighborhood’s favorite gathering spot.

What Are Pool Stools and Why Do You Need Them?

On a hot summer day, it can be too warm to lounge poolside and too tiring to swim laps. Pool stools offer the perfect middle ground, letting you stay cool in the water with a comfortable place to sit, chat, and enjoy a drink.

Pool stools transform how you use your pool. They’re great for relaxation, eliminating the need to tread water or hold onto the edge. They also create a social hub and make a resort-style swim-up bar possible in your own backyard. Instead of getting out to sit on hot deck chairs, you can simply take a load off right where you are. Many homeowners find pool stools become their favorite spot for morning coffee or evening conversations. They’re also perfect for keeping an eye on kids while staying comfortable yourself. For more inspiration, check out our guide on custom outdoor spa designs.

Understanding the Basic Concept

The concept is simple: submersible seating that lets you sit comfortably in the water. While portable options exist, the most luxurious and durable choice is built-in pool stools that become a permanent part of your pool structure. These are designed during pool construction or major renovations, ensuring they integrate seamlessly. Built-in stools are rock-solid and positioned exactly where you want them.

Pool stools improve your pool’s functionality by creating distinct zones. Think of it like having different rooms in your house. You might have a quiet corner with stools for relaxation, or a livelier area set up as a swim-up bar. At Creative Edge Pools, we love incorporating this zoning concept into our custom gunite pool designs. For more ideas, explore our backyard pool designs portfolio.

The Rise of the Backyard Resort

Luxury resorts feature swim-up bars because they create an irresistible atmosphere. Now, homeowners are bringing that same resort-style luxury to their backyards, and pool stools are a key ingredient. This shift is about upgrading your pool experience into a true entertainment destination. One customer said their stools reminded them of the “swim-up bar at the resort in Turks and Caicos.”

With pool stools, you create new opportunities for poolside entertainment. Picture serving drinks from your own swim-up bar or hosting parties where everyone has a comfortable seat. This change turns your pool into the neighborhood’s favorite gathering spot and increases the family fun factor. At Creative Edge Pools, we’ve seen how pool stools create an environment where people want to spend time together. For more ideas, our swimming pool ideas for backyard guide offers plenty of inspiration.

Your Buyer’s Guide to the Perfect Pool Stools

Selecting the right pool stools is a key decision for your backyard oasis. It’s an investment in comfort, function, and the overall aesthetic of your outdoor space. When we design custom gunite pools at Creative Edge Pools, we emphasize that details matter. You’ll want to consider durability, aesthetics, and functionality to make a choice that will serve you well for years.

What are the Different Types of Pool Stools?

Each type of pool stool serves different needs, so understanding your options is the first step.

• In-pool stools is the broadest category, including any seating for in-water use, with both fixed and removable options.
• Swim-up bar stools are counter-height seats designed to pair with pool-side bars, creating that resort-style experience.
• Fixed or built-in stools are our specialty at Creative Edge Pools. These permanent structures are crafted from gunite, concrete, or fiberglass during construction. They offer unbeatable stability and a seamless, luxurious look. Explore our portfolio of custom pools with integrated seating.
• Removable or portable stools offer flexibility. They can be placed in and removed from the pool as needed, often using weighted bases for stability. They’re perfect if you need to clear the pool for activities.

For our custom gunite pools, we typically recommend built-in stools for their durability and integrated beauty.

Materials, Durability, and Weather Resistance

The material of your pool stools determines how well they withstand the harsh pool environment of chlorine, UV rays, and moisture.

For built-in stools, we work with gunite, tile, and stone for maximum durability. These materials are impervious to UV rays, chlorine, and saltwater, lasting for decades with minimal maintenance. For removable stools, high-performance resin and polyethylene are common. These commercial-grade materials are engineered for the outdoors.

Key features to look for include:

• UV resistance: Quality resin stools are rated to handle thousands of hours of direct sun without fading (e.g., UV20 for 20,000 hours).
• Weather resistance: Materials should handle sun, rain, and snow for year-round use.
• Saltwater compatibility: Ensure stools are “Salt Water Approved” if you have a saltwater pool.
• Chlorine and bromine resistance: Quality materials won’t break down from pool chemicals.

Reputable manufacturers offer long warranties, some up to 15 years. For more ideas on durable materials, see our guide on things to put around your pool.

Stability and Anchoring: How Do They Stay Put?

Stability is critical for a relaxing experience. Built-in pool stools are the most stable, as they are integrated into the pool’s gunite shell during construction. This is a key advantage of our custom inground pool hardscapes.

Removable pool stools use clever anchoring methods. Many have hollow bases filled with sand (up to 36 lbs) or concrete (70+ lbs) for weight. The material is added dry and then saturated with water. Some advanced stools feature self-sinking technology, filling with water to sink into place. Other designs secure to the pool deck using ladder holes. Some stools are designed with slight movement as a safety feature to prevent injury from falls.

Ergonomics and Comfort Features

Comfort is key to enjoying your pool stools for hours. Height and adjustability are crucial. Common heights are 24-inch counter and 30-inch bar height. Some portable models are adjustable. As one owner noted, “My husband is 6’3″ tall and I am 5’4″ tall so having them adjust by simply twisting in the water is a great feature.” The waterline should ideally be between your stomach and chest.

Footrests add significant comfort, especially on taller stools. Seat design ranges from flat to contoured, with some premium models offering built-in lower back support. Weight capacity is a vital safety feature; most quality stools support up to 275-300 pounds. We consider all these ergonomic factors when designing built-in seating. Learn more in our guide on how to design the perfect gunite pool for your backyard.

Installation, Care, and Pool Compatibility

Adding pool stools involves practical considerations for installation, care, and compatibility with your pool type. Understanding these factors protects your investment and ensures long-term enjoyment.

Setup, Installation, and Removal

The setup process for pool stools depends on whether you choose built-in or removable options.

Built-in pool stools are installed as part of the pool construction or a major remodel. We integrate these features directly into the pool’s shell for a permanent, stable, and seamless installation. No assembly is required from you.

Removable pool stools offer convenience. Many are designed for quick deployment, some ready in under a minute. Setup often involves filling a weighted base with sand (30-36 lbs) or concrete (70+ lbs). The concrete is added dry and then saturated with water to harden. Some advanced models have self-sinking technology, filling with water to sink into place.

For removal, most portable stools are designed to be lifted out, though they can be heavy when filled with water. Water drains from the bottom as you lift. Storing them out of season can extend their lifespan.

Are They Safe for All Pool Types?

Many high-quality pool stools are designed for broad compatibility with different pool surfaces.

• Gunite, Pebble, Tile, and Fiberglass pools: These surfaces are highly compatible with both built-in and removable stools.
• Vinyl liner pools: Many stools are safe for vinyl liners, featuring smooth, non-abrasive bases. However, caution is advised. If your liner feels “soft or squishy” or moves, it’s not recommended to place furniture on it, as sliding could cause scratches. Always ensure the stool base and pool floor are free of debris before placement.

It’s also important to confirm compatibility with your pool’s water chemistry. Quality pool stools are resistant to chlorine, bromine, and are “Salt Water Approved.” At Creative Edge Pools, we ensure any seating options are perfectly suited for your specific pool.

Maintenance and Cleaning for Longevity

Proper maintenance is essential to keep your pool stools looking great. While designed for durability, a little care goes a long way.

• Routine Cleaning: A simple rinse with water and a soft brush or cloth is usually sufficient to prevent dirt buildup.
• Deeper Cleaning: For stubborn stains, remove the stools from the pool and use a mild household cleaner. An eraser sponge can be effective.
• Calcium Removal: Use specialized calcium removal products for hard water buildup.
• Algae Prevention: Regular cleaning helps prevent algae growth, especially on built-in features.
• Off-Season Storage: Storing removable stools indoors during the off-season protects them from extreme weather and extends their life.

Potential Drawbacks and Key Considerations

While pool stools can transform your pool, there are a few practical considerations to think through before investing. Planning ahead will help you maximize enjoyment and avoid surprises.

Interference with Pool Cleaners and Activities

Pool stools and automatic pool cleaners don’t always mix. Robotic cleaners and hose-based sweeps can get tangled in the furniture, disrupting the cleaning cycle. As one owner noted, “chances are your hose will get wrapped around the table or stools.”

The solution is simple: remove portable pool stools when your automatic cleaner is running. For built-in stools, ensure your robot can steer around them, or be prepared for some manual cleaning in those areas.

Also, consider your family’s pool activities. If you love pool volleyball or need open space for swimming laps, a pool full of stools might get in the way. Removable options shine here, as you can clear the pool for high-energy fun and bring the seating back for relaxation. We often design custom gunite pools with zones that accommodate both active play and lounging.

Stability on Sloped Surfaces

Most pool floors have a subtle slope for drainage, which can affect pool stool stability. Some portable stools have adjustable feet to handle slight variations, but you may need to find a level “sweet spot.” If you can clearly see the slope in your shallow end, it’s likely too steep for most portable stools to sit comfortably without rocking.

This is where custom built-in seating excels. When we build gunite pools, we design seating that conforms perfectly to your pool’s unique contours, ensuring rock-solid stability regardless of the slope. Always check with the manufacturer or your pool professional if you’re concerned about your pool’s slope.

Frequently Asked Questions about In-Pool Seating

As installers of custom gunite pools with built-in seating, we often hear the same questions from homeowners. Here are the answers to what matters most.

How much weight can a typical built-in pool stool hold?

Weight capacity is a key safety feature. Most high-quality, built-in pool stools are rated for a maximum capacity of 275 to 300 lbs (136 kg). Because they are integrated directly into the pool’s gunite shell, they are incredibly strong and stable. For portable options, always check the manufacturer’s specifications.

Can pool stools be added to an existing pool?

Yes. Built-in pool stools can often be added during a pool remodel, though it is more complex than during initial construction. The process involves excavating part of the existing pool shell, building the stool forms, and then applying new gunite and matching finishes. We can evaluate your existing pool and determine the best approach for seamlessly integrating pool stools.

Will a built-in pool stool damage my pool surface?

When installed professionally, a built-in pool stool will not damage your pool surface. It becomes a permanent, integrated part of the pool’s shell, finished with the same durable materials like gunite, tile, or stone. This eliminates the risk of scratching or wear that can come from improperly used portable options. Professional installation is key to ensuring a seamless and safe result.

Conclusion

Adding pool stools to your backyard is about more than just seating; it’s about changing your outdoor experience. These simple additions can turn an ordinary pool into a place where memories are made, friends gather, and every summer day feels like a vacation.

Pool stools offer a perfect blend of practicality and luxury. Whether you choose the permanent elegance of built-in gunite stools or the flexibility of removable options, you’re investing in years of comfort and entertainment. You can finally relax comfortably in the cool water, creating that simple resort-style experience in your own backyard.

Choosing the right type, material, and design creates a sophisticated social hub for your family. If you’re ready to take your backyard to the next level, we at Creative Edge Pools can help design and build the custom gunite pool and entertainment space of your dreams. As a family-owned business serving Eastern Massachusetts and Southern New Hampshire, we specialize in comprehensive backyard development, bringing every element together into one cohesive vision.

Ready for a pool upgrade? Explore our swimming pool remodel services!