Swimming pools with a width of 300 cm

The swimming pools, especially when they are placed outside, perhaps in their own garden, are a great way to enjoy your free time during the warm months, offering a place to cool off, relax and have fun. AgriEuro offers a wide range of outdoor swimming pools on offer, including:

• Hot tubs spa These pools are equipped with advanced features such as water heating and whirlpools. They are perfect for creating an atmosphere of relaxation and well-being at home.
• Above-ground pools They are a good and convenient alternative to in-ground pools, as they allow you to have your own pool without starting construction work. Simply place the pool structure on your garden or terrace and fill it with water.

Above-ground pools, in turn, can be subdivided into:

• Inflatable pools: Easy to install and remove, these pools are ideal for those looking for a temporary solution. They offer great convenience due to their ease of assembly.
• Tubular swimming pools. With a sturdy construction and simple mounting these pools are perfect for seasonal use. The tubular construction provides more stability than inflatable pools.
• Rigid pools: These pools offer a permanent solution with a solid and durable structure. They are ideal for those who want to install a stable and durable swimming pool in their garden.

Each type of garden or balcony pool has its own peculiarities and advantages, allowing each user to find the solution best suited to their needs. Thanks to the wide choice and the unique features of each model, you can create your own corner of paradise right at home.

Swimming pools are facilities designed to contain water and allow people to swim, relax and have fun. There are different types of pools, each with specific characteristics that make them suitable for various uses.

The water filtration and pumping system is a crucial element in keeping water clean and safe. Glass or quartz sand pumps and cartridge pumps are among the most common systems used in above-ground pools. These systems ensure optimum water quality with minimal manual intervention.

The spa hot tubs offer additional features such as remote control, water heating and advanced filtration systems. These elements make them perfect for those seeking a luxury and wellness experience at home.

Garden pools offer numerous advantages, making them a valuable addition to any garden or outdoor space. One of the main advantages is that you can enjoy moments of relaxation and fun without having to leave home. Whether it is a refreshing bath on a hot summer day or a relaxing hot tub, the outdoor pools provide a great solution to improve the quality of life.

• Relaxation and well-being: The Spa hot tubs offer an incomparable relaxation experience. Features such as the whirlpool and heated water help reduce stress and relieve muscle tension and improve overall well-being.
• Fun for the whole family: Above ground pools such as tubular and rigid inflatable pools are ideal for entertaining the whole family. They provide a safe and fun place where children and adults can play and exercise.
• Versatility and practicality: The above ground pools are easy to install and remove, making them a practical choice for those who want a temporary or seasonal solution. No major structural work is required, which reduces installation time and costs.
• Added value to the property: Installing a pool, especially a rigid pool, can increase the value of the property. A well-maintained and functioning swimming pool is an element of attraction for potential buyers, making the house more desirable on the market.

A comparison of the above ground and in-ground pools highlights the benefits of the former.

• Above ground pools are generally less expensive to purchase and install. No trenching or complex structural work is required, which significantly reduces upfront costs. They are also easier to maintain and less expensive than in-ground pools.
• The spa hot tubs, in addition to offering the benefits of the above-ground pools, add an extra level of luxury. Advanced features such as remote control, sophisticated filtration systems and the ability to heat water allow you to customize the relaxation experience to your needs. These advantages make them an excellent choice for anyone wishing to create a wellness area in their home.
• Inflatable pools are particularly appreciated for their portability and ease of installation. They are perfect for those who want a temporary solution and can be easily assembled and disassembled. Tubular pools offer greater stability than inflatables, while rigid pools provide maximum durability and robustness.

The outdoor and garden pools available on AgriEuro are of different types to suit every need and preference. Below is a brief description of the main types:

• Spa hot tubs These pools offer a luxurious experience with advanced features such as hot tub and water heating.
• Above ground swimming pools which may be further divided into three main groups according to their structure.

In particular, the latter type of outdoor swimming pool can be divided into:

1. Inflatable pools: Easy to install and remove, these swimming pools are ideal for seasonal or temporary use.
2. Tubular pools : They offer a robust and stable structure thanks to their metal tubes.
3. Rigid pools: Made from solid materials, these pools are designed to last and offer a permanent solution.

The hot tubs spa are the ultimate in comfort and relaxation for those who want to create a wellness area in their own garden. These pools are equipped with advanced functions such as the following:

• Water heating: It allows you to use the pool all year round even in the coldest months, offering constant comfort.
• Hot tub: The water jets massage the body, relieving tension and improving well-being.
• Remote control or touch screen allowing you to adjust the temperature and intensity of your water jets simply and intuitively.
• Advanced Filtration Systems : They ensure clean and safe water at all times, reducing the need for manual maintenance.

Inflatable garden pools are a practical and convenient solution for those who want a temporary pool. Made from durable materials, they are easy to install and remove, making them ideal for seasonal use. They can be mounted on any flat surface and offer good stability thanks to their air chambers. These pools are perfect for families with children due to their softness and safety.

• Easy installation: They can be assembled and disassembled quickly without the need for special tools.
• Durable material: Made from PVC or other robust materials, they resist wear and tear and weathering.
• Portability: Once deflated, they take up little space and can be easily stored or transported.
• Safety: Soft walls reduce the risk of injury, making them ideal for children.

Above-ground tubular outdoor pools are an intermediate solution between inflatable pools and rigid pools They consist of a metal tube structure that gives strength and stability to the pool. Tubular pools are ideal for those who want a pool that is more stable than inflatables but does not require the structural work required for rigid pools.

• Robust structure Metal tubes provide a solid base for stability and safety.
• Resistance: The metal construction and PVC liner ensure long life by resisting weathering and frequent use.
• Versatility.: Suitable for seasonal use, they can be disassembled and stored during the winter months.

The outdoor rigid pools are the ideal choice for those who want a permanent and long-lasting solution. Made of solid materials such as steel or wood, these pools offer a stable and robust structure that will last for many years with the right maintenance. The rigid pools offer a superior swimming and relaxation experience. They are ideal for those who have sufficient space in the garden and want a stable and long-lasting swimming pool.

• Solid materials : Constructed from durable materials such as steel, wood or composite, they guarantee a long service life.
• Stability: They offer an extremely stable construction suitable for intensive and frequent use.
• Elegant design : Available in various designs and finishes, they can be a prestigious decorative element in the garden.
• Durability: With proper maintenance, these pools can last for many years and offer excellent value for money in the long run.

Each type of swimming pool has technical specifications that influence the user experience. Here is a detailed overview of the main technical specifications:

The shape of the garden pool is one of the first features to consider. The pools can be round, square or rectangular, each with specific advantages:

• Round pools : They offer even distribution of water pressure on the walls, making them more stable. They are ideal for limited space and family use.
• Square Swimming pools : They provide a good surface for swimming and playing. The square shape also facilitates installation in corner spaces.
• Rectangular pools : Perfect for sport swimming thanks to their length. They offer ample space for games and water activities.

The size of the outdoor pool determines the amount of water it can hold and the number of people it can accommodate.

• Small pools : Suitable for 2–66 people with dimensions of approx. 270x200x60 cm and a capacity of approx. 940 litres. Ideal for families with small children or limited space.
• Medium swimming pools : They can accommodate 6-10 people with dimensions of approximately 540x270x132 cm and a capacity of approximately 16,000 litres. Perfect for larger families or those who want more space.
• Large swimming pools : Suitable for 11–25 people with dimensions of approximately 1000x550x132 cm and a capacity of up to 54,000 litres. Ideal for social events or those with ample space.

The water filtering and pumping system is essential to keep garden pool water clean, safe and crystal clear. Here is a detailed description of the different options available:

• Glass or quartz sand pumps: These pumps use glass or quartz sand to filter the water. Sand traps dirt and debris particles, ensuring clean water. These systems are known for their effectiveness and durability. Maintenance is simple, requiring only periodic cleaning of the sand.
• Sand pumps with chlorinator: In addition to sand filtration, these pumps include a chlorinator that automatically adds chlorine to the water while keeping it hygienic. This system is especially useful to reduce manual maintenance and ensure that the water is always safe for bathing.
• Filtration spheres: Filtration spheres are an innovative alternative to sand. Made from special materials, they offer highly efficient, low-maintenance filtration. The spheres are lightweight, easy to handle and last for a long time, reducing the need for frequent replacement.
• Cartridge pumps: Cartridge pumps use cartridge filters to remove impurities from water. These filters are easy to replace and offer good filtration capacity for small to medium-sized swimming pools. Ideal for those looking for a long-lasting, easy-to-clean solution.

Swimming pool accessories are essential to ensure optimal maintenance and enhance the user experience. Here is a detailed overview of the main technical specifications:

• Filter pumps: These devices are essential to keep the pool water clean and safe. Filtration pumps remove impurities and debris, ensuring crystal clear water.
• Repair patch: Useful for repairing small holes or damage to the pool liner, extending the life of the structure.
• Cloth for pool base: This accessory protects the bottom of the pool from abrasion and damage, providing an extra layer of security.
• Roller or pool cover: Cover sheets protect the pool from insect leaves and other debris when not in use. The roller makes it easy to attach and remove the sheet.
• Swimming pool stairs: Stairs are a must for easy access and exit from the pool for safety and convenience.
• Skimmer: This attachment removes floating debris from the water surface, improving overall quality and cleanliness.
• Chlorine dispenser or chlorinator: It maintains constant chlorine levels in the water, ensuring effective disinfection and reducing the need for manual chlorine addition.
• Cleaning kit: It includes net brushes and vacuum cleaners to keep the pool floor and walls clean. These tools are essential for regular maintenance.
• Pool cleaning robot: Automates pool cleaning by reducing manual intervention. Robot Cleaners can remove debris algae and dirt from the walls and bottom of the pool, ensuring a thorough, effortless cleaning.
• Pool Heaters : They heat the water in the swimming pool, prolonging the bathing season and improving comfort.
• Lighting systems : They add a touch of aesthetics and enhance nighttime visibility, creating a safe and pleasant atmosphere.

The garden spa pools also known as hot tubs offer a luxurious and well-being experience with a host of advanced features. These pools are designed to provide comfort and relaxation, making them ideal for those who want an oasis of tranquillity at home.

• Heated water : One of the main features of the spa pools is the ability to heat the water, allowing them to be used all year round regardless of weather conditions. The heating of the water helps to create a relaxing and therapeutic environment.
• Hot tub: The spa pools are equipped with powerful water jets that massage the body, relieving muscle tension and stress. The hot tub is especially beneficial for improving blood circulation and relaxing.
• Remote control or touch screen: Many spa pool models offer the ability to control functions via remote control or touch screen panel. This allows you to easily adjust the temperature, jet strength and other settings to personalize the experience.
• Advanced Filtration Systems : The spa pools are equipped with high quality filtration systems that keep the water clean and free of impurities. These systems require little maintenance and ensure clear water at all times.
• Water softening system: Some spa pools include a water softening system that reduces water hardness and prevents the formation of limescale deposits. This improves the comfort and durability of the pool components.
• Integrated lighting : Integrated LED lights can create a relaxing atmosphere and enhance the aesthetic appearance of the spa pool, making it an attraction during the evening hours.
• Aromatherapy and Chromotherapy functions : Some models offer aromatherapy and chromotherapy functions that use scented essences and coloured lights to further enhance the relaxation experience.
• Additional accessories : Spa pools can be equipped with insulating covers to maintain water temperature headrests for added comfort and holders for drinks and snacks.

Each type of swimming pool offers specific features that make it suitable for different uses.

The domestic garden pools are ideal for creating a relaxation and entertainment area at home. They are perfect for families, couples and individuals who want to enjoy a refreshing bath on hot summer days or relax after a stressful day. They are usually small and easy to install and maintain.

Outdoor swimming pools can also offer solutions for accommodation facilities wellness centres gyms and other commercial environments. These swimming pools are usually large and can accommodate numerous people. They also have advanced filtration systems to ensure water is always clean and safe.

The hot tubs spa pools fit both contexts well: the discriminating factor is more about their size and capacity than ever before.

Choosing the best outdoor swimming pool, which is the one that best suits your needs, may seem like a complicated undertaking. But with a few key factors in mind, you can find the model that best fits your needs. Here are some tips to help you choose the perfect pool for your garden.

• Analyse your needs. Firstly, consider carefully how and where you intend to use the pool. Consider the number of people who will use it regularly, the space available in the garden, and whether you prefer a temporary or permanent solution.
• Budget: Set a realistic budget. Inflatable and tubular pools are generally cheaper than rigid pools and spas. However, also consider the additional costs for accessories and maintenance.
• Read the reviews. Read reviews from other users before you buy. The experiences of those who have already purchased and used the pool model you are interested in can provide valuable information on the quality and reliability of the product.
• Check your warranty. Make sure the pool has a good guarantee. This will protect you in case of manufacturing defects or problems that may arise after purchase.
• Included accessories: Check which accessories are included in the package. Having a pool complete with all the necessary accessories can save you time and money.
• Installation and Service. Check whether the salesman offers installation or after-sales support. This can be particularly useful for more complex pools, such as hard pools or spas.
• Sustainability and materials. Consider the environmental impact of the materials used for the pool and choose more sustainable options if available.

On AgriEuro you can find swimming pools of the most reliable brands known for their quality and durability. Here is a selection of the main brands available:

• Intex above ground outdoor pools: Intex offers inflatable, tubular, rigid and spa pools with advanced filtration systems and remote controlled pools.
• Bestway Garden pools : Bestway has pools for all types of use, with inflatable, tubular and rigid pools, and with elegant finishes to suit any garden. They are often equipped with filter systems with sand pumps and cartridges for easy maintenance.
• Gre above-ground swimming pools The GRE rigid pools are made from robust materials such as steel and wood, with an eye to sustainability.

Buying a pool at AgriEuro offers numerous advantages, making the shopping experience easy and convenient. Here's why:

• Fast, free shipping: Shipping is fast and free, handled directly from the AgriEuro logistics centres. This ensures timely delivery at no extra cost.
• Spare parts availability: AgriEuro ensures the continuous availability of spare parts for all models of swimming pools, facilitating repairs and maintenance over time.
• After Sales Support: AgriEuro's customer service is attentive and personalized, ready to answer any questions or problems that may arise after purchase. After-sales support includes technical advice, repair assistance and replacement of defective parts.

Don't wait any longer! Discover the wide range of pools available at AgriEuro and choose the solution that best suits your needs Turn your garden into an oasis of well-being and fun with the high-quality swimming pools offered by AgriEuro.

Rigid pools and tubular pools have several distinctive features that determine their use and durability.

• Rigid pools: Made from rigid panels or galvanized steel walls, they provide great stability and strength. They have a longer service life than tubular pools due to their robust materials. More expensive than tubular pools, they are a long-term investment. Require periodic and specific maintenance to preserve materials.
• Tubular pools: Consisting of a series of metal tubes that support the PVC coating, they are lighter and easier to assemble. They are suitable for seasonal or occasional use. Available in various sizes, suitable for both small and large spaces. They require less maintenance than rigid pools.

To set up an above ground pool, it is essential to choose the right location and prepare the ground properly.

Ideal area:

• Sunny: The area should be exposed to the sun for most of the day, making it easier to heat the water.
• Wind protection: Choosing a wind-protected zone reduces water evaporation and maintains a constant temperature.
• Accessible: It must be easily accessible for maintenance and daily use.
• Away from trees: Avoid areas with trees to prevent leaf and debris from falling into the water.

Ground preparation:

• Levelled: The ground must be perfectly level to avoid uneven pressure on the pool structure.
• Stable: Make sure that the ground is firm and stable, avoiding areas where there is a risk of subsidence.
• Clean: Remove stones, roots and other objects that could damage the bottom of the pool.
• Protective base: Place a protective mat or base under the pool to prevent abrasion and damage.

Preparation procedures:

• Measures: Carefully measure the area to ensure that the pool fits correctly.
• Levelling: Use sand or gravel to level the ground and create a smooth base.
• Compaction: Compact the soil to ensure a firm and stable base.

The maintenance of an above-ground pool is essential to ensure clean and safe water for bathers. This maintenance includes several regular and periodic operations:

Daily maintenance:

• Surface cleaning: Use a screen to remove leaves, insects and floating debris.
• Water level control: Make sure that the water level is constant, topping up if necessary.
• PH verification: The pH level must be maintained between 7.4 and 7.6 to ensure a balanced water.

Weekly maintenance:

• Chlorine test: Measure and adjust the chlorine level, which should be between 1 and 3 ppm.
• Filter cleaning: Check and clean the filters to ensure proper operation of the filtration system.
• Addition of chemicals: Use algaecides to prevent algae and flocculants to improve water clarity.

Monthly maintenance:

• Alkalinity control: Check the total alkalinity of the water, which should be between 80 and 120 ppm.
• Deep clean: Perform a deep cleaning of the pool, including walls and bottom, using a pool vacuum cleaner.
• Cutting system check Check the correct operation of the pumps and water circulation system.

Seasonal maintenance:

• Preparation for winter: If the pool is not used during the winter, it is important to cover it with a protective cover and add specific chemicals to prevent freezing and algae formation.
• Spring opening: At the beginning of the season, remove the drape, clean the pool and rebalance the chemical water levels.

Rigid pools offer many advantages over inflatable pools, making them a popular choice for those looking for durability and stability.

• Durability: Rigid pools are constructed from materials such as galvanised steel panels or other solid materials that guarantee a long service life. These pools can last for many years without the need for frequent replacements or repairs.
• Stability: Rigid pools offer a stable and safe structure capable of withstanding external stresses such as wind or intensive use. They maintain their original shape without risk of deformation, unlike inflatable pools that can collapse under pressure.
• Capacity and use: Usually available in larger sizes, ideal for large families or those who want more space for swimming. They can accommodate multiple people at once without space or stability issues.
• Maintenance: Hard surfaces are easier to clean than inflatable material, which can be harder to keep free from debris and algae. Rigid pools often come with more effective filtration systems, helping to keep water clean for longer.

The rigid outdoor pools are made of various materials that guarantee strength and durability over time.

• Galvanised steel: Galvanised steel is treated to resist rust and corrosion, ensuring a long service life. Steel walls offer high stability and resistance to external stresses.
• Reinforced PVC Panels: Reinforced PVC is used for the inner lining of rigid swimming pools, offering flexibility and resistance to damage. PVC is easy to clean and maintain, making it ideal for use in swimming pools.
• Treated wood: Some rigid pools use treated wood for the outdoor structure, offering a natural and pleasant appearance. The treated wood is resistant to weather and pests, ensuring a long service life.
• Aluminium Aluminium is a lightweight but strong material used for some rigid swimming pool structures. Similar to galvanized steel, aluminium is resistant to corrosion and weather.
• Steel sheets: The steel sheets offer superior strength, suitable for large swimming pools and high usage. Often coated with protective paints to increase corrosion resistance.
• Fibreglass: Fibreglass is used in some rigid swimming pools due to its durability and chemical resistance. Lightweight and easy to shape, the fibreglass makes it easy to install swimming pools.
• Material combinations: Some rigid pools combine different materials to maximise the advantages of each, e.g. steel structures with PVC or wood linings.

The liner is a waterproof membrane used to coat the inside of the above ground swimming pools, ensuring water tightness and enhancing the aesthetics of the pool. In other words, the liner prevents water leakage, ensuring that the pool remains full and usable.

Common liner materials:

• PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride): PVC is one of the most common materials for liners due to its durability and chemical resistance. It easily adapts to the shape of the pool, ensuring even coverage. Available in various thicknesses (typically between 0.2 mm and 0.85 mm), with thicker thicknesses offering greater strength and durability.
• Polyethylene: Polyethylene is a light and strong material, mainly used for inflatable and tubular pools. Easily workable, it allows for quick installation and removal.
• EVA (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate): This material offers increased elasticity, making it resistant to warping. It has a softer surface, improving comfort while using the pool.
• Polyurethane: High mechanical and abrasion resistance, ideal for swimming pools that are subject to intensive use. Good insulating properties that help maintain water temperature.

Choosing the right size of an above-ground garden pool requires consideration of various factors, including available space, expected usage, and budget.

• Space available: Before you buy, measure the available area in the garden or courtyard to make sure there is enough space not only for the pool but also for access and maintenance. Leave at least 1–2 feet of free space around the pool for easy access and security.
• Intended use: Consider how many people will use the pool at the same time. The larger pools are ideal for large families or those who like to host friends. If you plan to use the pool for swimming, choose a pool that is at least 7–8 meters long. For recreation and games, a smaller pool might be enough.
• Depth: If you have young children, opt for a pool with a maximum depth of 1 to 1.2 meters. For adults and experienced swimmers, a depth of 1.5 meters or more may be more suitable.
• Pool Shape: Depending on the space you have and the use you plan to make of it, especially if you plan to swim in confined spaces or use it more to relax, choose from rectangular, round or oval pools.
• Budget: Larger, deeper pools tend to have a higher initial cost. Also consider the costs of maintenance, heating and water treatment that increase with the size of the pool.

The above ground swimming pool is the only one that does not require any municipal authorization. This is true in theory, since in practice it depends on the type and composition of the kit chosen.

Easy-to-dismantle basement and prefabricated swimming pools, especially in fibreglass and relevant to the building, ⁣ do not require any permits.

However, if the volume of the pool exceeds 20 per cent of that of the main building, then a building permit must be applied for. This is also true in the case where technical standards consider the pertinent interventions as “new construction interventions” perhaps for the particular environmental value of the area.

In any case, the advice is always to inquire well at the relevant municipal offices to avoid unpleasant situations.

The cleanliness of a swimming pool is essential to keep the water clear and safe for bathers. Here are the main steps for effective cleaning:

• Surface cleaning: Use a net to remove leaves, insects and other debris floating on the water surface. Carry out this operation daily to prevent the accumulation of dirt.
• Wall brushing: Use a pool-specific brush to clean the walls and bottom of the pool, removing algae and dirt deposits. Brush the walls at least once a week to keep the surfaces clean.
• Bottom suction: Use a handheld vacuum cleaner or robot cleaner to vacuum the bottom of the pool, removing sand, gravel and other debris. Vacuum the bottom of the pool at least once a week, or more often if necessary.
• Filtration system: Check and clean the pool filter regularly to make sure it is working properly. Backwash the sand filter at least once every fortnight to remove accumulated debris.
• Chemical balancing: Use a kit to test the pH, chlorine and alkalinity level of water. The water PH level must range between 7.4 and 7.6 and the chlorine between 1 and 3 ppm. Maintain the alkalinity between 80 and 120 ppm to stabilize the pH. Add chemicals needed to maintain water balance, including chlorine, algaecides and pH correctors.
• Additional treatments: Perform a weekly shock with high-concentration chlorine to eliminate resistant bacteria and algae. Use flocculants to aggregate suspended particles, facilitating their removal via the filter.
• Regular maintenance: Clean the skimmer and pump baskets to remove accumulated debris. Ensure proper operation of pumps and circulating jets to ensure proper water mixing.

The maintenance costs of a rigid pool can vary depending on several factors, including the size of the pool, the type of filtration system, and the use of chemicals.

Initial cost of accessories:

• Filters: Purchase sand, cartridge or diatom filters with variable prices.
• Pumps: Swimming pool pumps can cost 100 to 500 euros or more, depending on power and features.

Chemicals:

• Chlorine: Chlorine is essential to keep the water disinfected, with an annual cost of between 100 and 300 euros.
• PH Regulators: Products to adjust the pH of the water, with costs ranging from 50 to 150 euros per year.
• Algaecides and flocculants: Products to prevent algae growth and improve the clarity of the water, with annual costs of about 50–100 euros.

Electricity:

The cost of electricity to run the pump and filtration system can vary from 200 to 500 Euros per year, depending on local usage and rates.

Routine maintenance:

• Clearing: Cleaning tools such as pool vacuum cleaners, screens and brushes with initial and periodic replacement costs.
• System check: Regular inspection and maintenance of the filtration system and pumps, with variable costs.

Seasonal maintenance:

• Wintering: Products and covers to protect the swimming pool during the winter, costs from 50 to 200 Euros.
• Spring opening: Cleaning and restoring chemical levels at the beginning of the season, costing approximately 100–200 euros.

Repairs and replacements:

• Components: Replacement of worn or damaged components such as filter cartridges, seals and pump parts, with variable costs.
• Liner: Liner replacement may be required every 5–10 years, with costs ranging from 500 to 1500 euros or more.

Although it may be tempting to let pets play in the water, it is not recommended for above-ground pools. Animal nails can damage the liner and compromise water hygiene. The presence of animals in the swimming pool may pose certain risks and requires specific considerations regarding:

• Animal safety: Chlorine and other chemicals used in pool maintenance can irritate animals' skin and eyes. Ensure animals can easily enter and exit the pool to avoid accidental drowning.
• Water Hygiene: Animals can carry debris such as hair, dirt and bacteria into the water, increasing the workload of the filtration system. The presence of animals can alter the chemical levels of the water, requiring additional maintenance.