Installing a pool not only enhances your home but also raises its worth while providing a relaxation and entertainment space. It calls for thoughtful decision-making and careful planning. Each step requires careful consideration, from choosing an ideal spot to understanding the different pool types.
Discussed below are six factors to consider before installing a pool.
Pool Contractors
Installing a pool in your backyard requires expertise. This is where pool contractors come in. Hiring a skilled pool contractor is a major decision that comes with numerous benefits, including:
- Proper installation: Professional contractors have the knowledge and skills to ensure your new pool is installed correctly according to industry standards and that appropriate procedures are followed. This helps safeguard your investment
- Custom designs: A pool expert can custom-design your pool to ensure it suits your backyard and lifestyle. They can create perfect layouts and pool decks and incorporate the best features
- Safety and compliance: A reliable contractor will follow all the safety standards and local building codes to ensure your pool is legal for your locality and is properly engineered
- Licensing and experience: Most experienced and reliable pool contractors are licensed and have a proven track record or portfolio to reduce risk and ensure proper installation
Pool Varieties
Understanding the different pool varieties available before starting your project is key in helping you pick the right pool for your home, needs, and preferences. They include the following:
- Fiberglass pools: These are manufactured pre-built shells made purely from fiberglass that you can install as above-ground or in-ground pools. A fiberglass pool is resilient to common wear and tear and harsh weather, making it durable. It has low maintenance requirements and comes in various styles and sizes
- Gunite pools: They’re concrete pools made from a combination of water, sand, and cement applied via a high-pressure hose. A gunite pool is long-lasting, durable, and can be custom-built to any size or shape to suit your particular needs and preferences. Gunite plaster comes in a range of colors, providing customized finishes
- Liner pools: These pools use PVC or plastic liners to hold water. A liner pool can be built above the ground or in the ground. It’s an excellent option for those working with a strict budget. Liner pools are affordable and come in multiple options with regard to size and shape. In addition, these pools are easy to install
Skilled and experienced pool contractors can help install any of these pools and even advise you on the best option for your property.
Location
When installing a pool, location is one of the most critical decisions. Factors to consider when selecting an ideal spot for your pool include:
- Sun exposure: A pool is best built in an area that receives sufficient sunlight across every season and throughout the day. This helps keep the water comfortably warm for fun swimming experiences
- Accessibility: Installing a pool near your house makes it easier to carry things between your home and the pool, making your outdoor space more convenient
- Terrain conditions: Your backyard’s soil and terrain are key in picking the most suitable spot to install your pool. Level surfaces are perfect for pool installation because they reduce the need for vast foundation and excavation work. Avoid low-lying spots because they’re susceptible to poor drainage or flooding. This will ensure water doesn’t accumulate around the pool area while maintaining a cleaner and safer environment
- Privacy: It’s a major consideration when creating comfortable, enjoyable experiences. Evaluating your pool’s visibility from surrounding public spaces and your neighbors’ homes can help you build a private oasis you can comfortably enjoy
- Pool permits
A pool permit is a legal document the local municipality gives to ensure the new home addition complies with federal or local regulations regarding location, safety, and design.
Pool permits are key in maintaining safety standards while ensuring the installation of your pool doesn’t violate the local zoning laws or affect the surrounding environment negatively. Without the right permits, you may be forced to bring down your pool or pay fines and penalties. Getting a pool permit ensures:
- The pool installation meets all the necessary construction and engineering standards
- Your pool doesn’t cause electrical hazards or crack
- The pool is being installed in a safe area and has structural integrity
Budget
Proper financial planning is key for successful pool installation. Budgeting for your pool involves understanding the different expenses and making smart choices to ensure you remain within your spending limits. The cost of installing a pool varies based on the following:
- Pool type: An in-ground pool is costlier than an above-ground pool because of the in-depth construction and excavation work required
- Shape and size: Pools with complex shapes or larger options need more labor and materials, raising the overall cost
- Material: Your material choices, including vinyl, fiberglass, or concrete, can significantly influence the cost
- Labor: Partnering with skilled pool builders is crucial. However, it comes at a cost. Ensure your builder is insured, licensed, and reputable
Beyond the apparent costs, there are hidden expenses that may catch you off-guard, including landscaping, utilities such as plumbing and electrical systems, and inspections or permits. To set a realistic budget before installing a pool, evaluate your needs and research costs.
Materials
Materials are vital for your pool’s functionality and appearance., so picking the best is paramount. Common pool construction materials include:
- Stainless steel: The material is not only lightweight but self-sealing as well, meaning it doesn’t need extra finishing
- Concrete: It’s a common pool construction material with features like longevity and strength. Concrete can be molded into different shapes, making it possible to construct pools of any size and shape
- Wood: The material is not only natural but aesthetically pleasing and warm. A wooden pool blends harmoniously into different landscapes. Wood provides a rustic appeal and can be treated to withstand pests and weathering
- Fiberglass: it’s another pool material that’s easy to care for. Fiberglass has a smooth, non-porous gelcoat surface that prevents contaminants like algae from accumulating and building up. This means you don’t have to spend on supplies to keep your pool algae-free. Also, the fiberglass material is non-abrasive, meaning it doesn’t have sharp, hazardous edges that can scrape the skin
Considering pool maintenance, material quality, durability, and cost-effectiveness can help you find the best material.
Endnote
Pool installation involves many considerations and careful planning. Consider contractors, pool varieties, budget, materials, permits, and location before installing a pool to ensure a smooth process.