Insulated concrete forms have long been used for building energy-efficient homes and commercial buildings. They have also been used with great success for such projects as retaining walls and decorative outdoor fireplaces. But perhaps their most outstanding use yet is in the construction of swimming pools.

There are many reasons to use ICFs for your new swimming pool, but here are our top three.

ICFs are known for longevity

Insulated concrete forms are structurally superior to most other building materials. Buildings that incorporate the use of ICFs have an expected life of 200 years or more.

To make the news even better, during the long life of your new ICF pool, you will experience much lower maintenance costs as well. These pools are not only built to last, they are built to be practically maintenance free.

Energy Savings

According to ICF Builder Magazine, the use of this product can result in a cost savings in the construction of your pool. However, they go on to say that the greatest savings is in the energy costs associated with using your pool over the long term.

"Experts calculate that up to 80% of a pool's heat is lost through the sides and bottom of the pool, due to the fact that the ground conducts heat far more efficiently than air does."

If you take that heat loss into consideration, then the use of ICFs in pool construction (and their impressive insulating qualities) just makes sense. If you live in an area where heating your pool can become an issue, you definitely need to consider using ICFs.

Convenience and ease of use

Let's face it, some of us want pools in awkward places: small backyards, on an incline, you name it, but these placements can make the construction of pools problematic. There are just some places that heavy equipment won't go. ICFs are lightweight, making them easy to handle without that heavy equipment.

They are also much more accommodating of those fancy pool designs that feature curved walls. With the flexibility of insulated concrete forms, you can achieve curves, arches, and a host of other design options to create exactly the shape and look you want for your backyard oasis.

This option for pool construction is also a time-saver in the building of your pool. An ICF swimming pool can be constructed in less time than most other construction methods, so there is no reason not to choose the pool of your dreams--even if you are on a deadline.

Bottom line, if you want a unique, energy-efficient pool that just may last for your lifetime, you really need to consider using ICFs in your pool's construction.