Review of Pool Shelters, Enclosures or Abris as they are known as in France
Telescopic pool shelter - OPEN:
Telescopic pool shelter - CLOSED:
Note the tracks on the deck slabs that are required for this telescopic type to run on.
There are dozens of types - some very large, very high and very, very expensive (think 60,000€ HT +).
They tend to be classified in terms of their height as follows. In France the planning law is directly related to the Abris size and height.
For more details on Abris Planning Laws in France click here.
| Type | Height | Area Covered |
| Low (Un abri bas) | 0.6 m - 1.0 m | Pool basin and pool coping stones |
| Medium (Mi-haut or Semi-haut) | 1.0m - 1.8m | Varies |
| High (Un abris haut) | greater then 1.8m high | Normally covers pool basin as well as the surrounding paving |
One has to say - right from the start that these things are hideously ugly - no matter how they are dressed up!
BUT - they do have quite a few advantages and from the number that you see in the French countryside they are regarded as a highly desirable item in France - where the supreme pragmatists completely ignore the look of the things because they offer quite a lot more in the way of creature comfort!
Table of Advantages of a Pool Enclosure or Abri
| Features | Benefits / provisos |
| The greenhouse affect of the abris keeps its internal temperature up and so the pool water temperature can be kept much higher at no cost | Water temperature generally 8 - 10 degrees C higher. Water heating costs are reduced substantially. |
| Pool can be used when it is windy or cold and at night | 24 hour swimming for several months per year and swimming season extended to 8 - 9 months per year without heating the shelter |
| Air pollution is removed from the pool water | Pool water algae blooms are frequently caused by wind blown chemicals
being spread by the local farmer. Pool has to be cleaned out much less frequently. |
| Biting and annoying insects are kept away from swimmers | Horse flies can totally stop use of the pool in some areas in July and August |
| Pool winterisation my not be required | Some precautions may still need to be taken |
| Provides an extension to the house that can be used for over-wintering of frost sensitive plants | Ditto |
| Is a real safety device in its own right | Most comply with NFP90-309 if bought in France |
| Balneotherapy equipment is more justifiable in a pool with an Abris | A seperate spa for all year use is not required if the pool has an abri |
| Music can be piped around the pool with less annoyance to the neighbours. |