How to Measure Water Depth for In-Pool Furniture

When you consider adding in-pool furniture to your swimming pool, knowing the water depth in your pool ledge or Baja shelf is critical for safety and comfort.

One of the most common problems we hear about is furniture floating or tipping over due to incorrect water depth. With several types of in-pool furnishings to choose from, each optimally designed for different water depths, knowing the water depth in your pool ledge or Baja shelf will help you choose the right type of in-pool furniture for your pool.

If you’re building a new pool, recently added a pool ledge, or still have your builder’s design files, you can search for this information in your paperwork. Or, you can easily measure this for yourself with a ruler or tape measure.

1. Fill your pool up to its capacity, so you get an accurate measurement. This is an important step not to be skipped, or you risk inaccurate measurements and floating pool furniture.
2. Place a ruler or tape measure’s end on the bottom surface of the pool ledge.
3. Note where the water is hitting the ruler or tape measure, and voila! You’ve got your pool ledge water depth measurements.

The depth of your Baja shelf is a personal preference, yet there are some guidelines to consider before you choose. These convenient and easy-to-use swimming pool features can have water depths of anywhere from 6” to 18”. Consult with your custom pool builder to decide the perfect water depth for you, keeping in mind who will use the pool, both human and fuzzy friends, and how you want to use the feature. If you already have a tanning ledge, there are in-pool furnishings and accessories that will work for just about any depth.

In-pool furnishings are not installed or hooked onto a pool ledge. Rather, the in-pool loungers and tables stay in place using the weight of the water inside of each product. It’s important that you choose your in-pool furnishings by water depth so that the water weight inside each product is heavy enough to anchor the pool accessories to the tanning shelf floor so they won’t bob or float around the pool. This is important not just for aesthetics but also for the safety of those using the in-pool furniture.

Don't worry! Should you find your water depth measures more than 15,” or you already have in-pool furniture that is floating or not working as intended, here are some options:

1. Add a riser: Several of our most popular in-pool chairs and chaise loungers can accommodate deeper water with the addition of a riser. These in-pool furniture risers can be attached to your lounger to get the perfect lift and solve any floating issues. Some models can go as deep as 20 inches.  
2. Add a platform or deck: You can add a platform or deck to the pool area to raise the water depth where you want to place the in-pool furniture. This option will require some additional construction work and may be more expensive, but it will allow you to use the in-pool furniture you prefer without compromising safety.
3. Consider alternative furniture options: Floating in-pool pieces like the Ledge Lounger Laze Hammock or Laze Pillow are fun options that keep you in the water. Or opt for commercial-grade deck furniture that will stand the test of time, weather, and use.

Once you know your pool ledge’s water depth, the fun really begins! Shopping for your perfect in-pool lounge chairs and accessories. Should you ever need any assistance or recommendations, reach out to the professionals at Boxhill for a consultation.