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You may have thought about installing a swimming pool for a long time but now you are ready to do it. You have a home you intend to live in for a long time, and you’re sure a pool is going to increase your enjoyment of your home. So, what are some of the questions you need to ask before you proceed?
How will I use my pool? A pool designed for the kids will be different from a pool designed for adults only. If the main purpose of the pool is fitness, you may want a lap pool rather than a traditional swimming pool. If you intend to entertain large groups frequently, that will change the look of your pool. Or, are you interested in a multipurpose pool that will accommodate all these uses?
What features do you want? This question is important for your immediate build but also to prepare for the future additions to your backyard. It will be less expensive to run the water and gas lines to a future outdoor kitchen now when you are running lines to the pool. Plus, you may have to tear up the deck you are putting in. So, make a list of all the features you want both now and in the future. Think about the size pool you want and if it is going to be an in-ground or an above-ground backyard pool. What shape do you want? Do you want a diving board or slide? Check out the LED lighting systems that include colored lights that make your pool water glow in different colors. Will there be water features like waterfalls or sprays? What style pool do you want? Do you want a sleek contemporary look or a more natural look that blends with the surrounding terrain and incorporates large rocks and lots of plants?
Where is it located? Decide where you want to locate your pool. If you live in the city with a typical size lot, this is the time to find out what the laws are for pools. There are sure to be rules about required fencing, but there may also be restrictions about how close your pool can be to the neighbor’s lot line. Consider the type of soil in your area. A high-water table or bedrock barely covered with soil may affect the type of pool you can have. There also must be access to the area where your pool will be constructed. Generally, there will be an access of no less than eight feet needed for heavy equipment.
What materials will be used? Above-ground pools are limited to a vinyl liner, but the outside of the pool, which is exposed, can vary. The pool companies are now offering options besides white. Also, you may want to consider adding a surround to your pool to give it a more custom look. You’ll have more decisions to make about in-ground pools. First is deciding what type of material you want your pool made of. There are three choices: cement, vinyl, and fiberglass. Each has advantages and disadvantages. Many pools today have the addition of glass or natural tiles in the pool.
What kind of equipment do you need? The biggest problem people have with their equipment is it being undersized. If your equipment is smaller than recommended, it will have to run longer, using more energy and shortening the life of the equipment. The turnover rate will be slower, giving bacteria and algae a chance to grow. If the option is to get a pump and pool filter that are a little smaller that your pool requires or a little larger than required, go big. You will never regret your decision when keeping your pool crystal clear and ready to use is so much easier. Consider installing a pool salt system that will automatically maintain the chlorine level of your pool.
Who will build the pool? If you are installing an above-ground pool, the answer may be you! It is perfectly possible for the homeowner to install an above-ground pool themselves. If your pool will be in the ground, you will need a professional. Talk to your friends and neighbors to find out who built their pools. It doesn’t hurt to also check with the Better Business Bureau.
This is a really exciting time for you and your family. Do your research. The more you know before you build, the better. Include the entire family in the planning stage. Find out what features are important to them. Then get ready to enjoy your backyard pool for many years to come.
