Poolwerx founder and CEO John O'Brien has observed a 168 per cent increase in mineral pool transitions during the past year and expects the popularity to continue this summer.

Here John answers some questions on this growing backyard trend.

What is a mineral pool?

A mineral pool uses naturally occurring minerals like salt, magnesium and potassium, and pairs them with a water purification system that works to keep your pool clean and significantly reduce the need for chemicals such as chlorine.

Can you turn any backyard pool into a mineral pool?

Any pool can be transformed into a mineral pool. The process is fairly straightforward. You don't need a new pool, you don't need completely new equipment, you don't need to empty out your pool and refill it.

A Poolwerx qualified pool technician can come to you, test the water chemistry of your pool and advise on the best process to turn your backyard pool into a new resort style pool.

The process may differ from pool to pool. If you use a mineral additive, your pool will be transformed overnight. With mineral salts, the process is more gradual, and conversion depends on the size of your pool.

What are a mineral pool's benefits?

There are many benefits to transforming your backyard pool into a mineral pool. Switching to minerals means swimmers are left with soft, silky skin, which can help with dryness or inflammation.

People often say their eczema or psoriasis doesn't flair up like it would in an ordinary pool, as the minerals in the pool soothe sensitive skin.

Magnesium in particular can help reduce stress and anxiety, relax muscles, stimulate hydration and improve sleep.

Sodium chloride, magnesium and potassium are essential to the functioning of several body organs and can help detoxify your body.

Salt helps detoxify your body, relaxes and helps skin-barrier function.

The calming and detoxifying effects of sodium chloride in pools can support the immune, nervous, and lymphatic systems.

Why do you think mineral pools are so popular?

Everyone can enjoy the benefits of a mineral pool, and as the 'healthy pool people', we're seeing many clients convert their pools due to the wellness and beauty benefits while still retaining a healthy pool.

The health benefits of mineral pools are extensive, helping improve circulation, ease pain, relieve stress and are gentle on the skin.

From young children with skin issues such as eczema, to seniors with aches and pains and athletes using it for its recovery purposes or you just want to enhance your pool, the benefits of a mineral pool will appeal to people of all ages.

Plus, with more people spending time at home in their backyards, the swimming pool has become not only a tool for fun and exercise, but also for relaxation.

What are some of the biggest myths around mineralisation?

Many people think they have missed the boat on having a mineral pool as they have previously installed a chlorine pool.

This is definitely not the case, as the mineralisation process can occur at any time throughout the pool's lifespan.

Some people may also think it's expensive to install or maintain, when in fact the installation process is very affordable and maintenance costs won't differ too much from that of a salt or chlorine pool, ultimately allowing you to enjoy a luxurious spa experience in your own backyard.

What are your top tips for getting the most out of your pool through mineralisation?

Mineral pools are a great way to recover after high intensity exercise sessions or long hot summer days.

They have the added benefits of maintaining healthy skin and hair to keep you looking as good as you feel post swim.

But some benefits of a mineral pool will be lost if the pool isn't being regularly cleaned and maintained, so ensure regular summer services occur to keep your backyard oasis pristine.