A new swimming pool can be a great addition to any home. It makes staycations a lot more fun. It gives you the chance to expand your exercise routine by adding swimming, amping up the aerobic benefits for you.
Owning your own swimming pool lets you have fun family time at home any day, plus weekend outdoor gatherings with guests safely distanced. As you embark on your new project, keep in mind that there are several important things to know when building a pool, and we’ll cover them in this article. Being aware of them from the start will help you make the right decisions along the way while simplifying the entire process.
As with any big project, doing your homework beforehand and working with a trusted professional will help the end result turn out the way you dreamed. A pool enables you to make the most of your yard and spend more time outdoors getting sunshine, plenty of exercise, and fresh air. Careful planning is key to ending up with a pool that looks great, blends well with the environment, and brings your household a whole new level of recreation and fun.
Important Things to Know When Building a Pool on Your Property
One of the first things to think about is where your pool will be located. Ideally, you’ll want a zone dedicated to your pool area, complete with decking and lounge furniture and maybe unique features like a fountain and an outdoor fireplace.
But if your yard is small, perhaps it only has room for a modest lap pool or a good-sized spa, and that’s okay. There are clever ways to design the perfect pool, whether your property is tiny or enormous. Let’s go over some of the main points to consider.
Pool Size and Location
The size and configuration of your property will influence how large your pool area can be. The yard’s slope can also have an effect. If part of your yard sits on a hillside, you can take advantage of this feature and add an infinity pool, for example.
If you find the backyard limiting in size but you have ample space in the front or on the sides of your property, you can work with these larger spaces. An experienced pool builder can create ways to not only build a pool in your front yard, but also make it your private oasis through skillful use of deck covers, foliage, stonework, partitions, and much more for a space that’s both beautiful and secluded.
Pool Type
With a pretty good idea of what pool size you can fit into your yard, you can start to explore pool types. These are just some of your options:
In-ground pool
Above ground pool
Infinity edge pool
Lap pool
Swim spa
Hot tub
Fiberglass pool
Concrete pool
Vinyl liner pool
Reflection pool
Natural pool
Architectural pond
Saltwater pool
And other options
What are you leaning toward? You can also mix and match. For example, you can add an in-ground pool plus an above-ground hot tub area. Or you can have a lap pool with a nearby reflection pool that’s perfect for meditating and unwinding at the end of a busy day.
Shape & Design
A traditional rectangular pool might look beautiful on your property, or you may want a different shape in a custom design. A talented pool designer can help you come up with unique pool shapes and designs that add beautiful curvature and make the most of your property’s layout.
When thinking of design, consider what will go around your pool. Will there be plants? A deck? A lounging or tanning area? Specialized outdoor living spaces? Look at the whole picture and let a professional pool designer create some possibilities for you to choose from.
Pool Materials & Decking Style
When considering the top things to know when building a pool, don’t overlook the materials that will be used. You want to go with durable materials that will hold up well over time in your climate. Talk to a pool designer to determine which materials are right for you.
In addition to the proper materials, the style of your pool decking is as important as the pool type, because what you choose will add to the whole aesthetic of your yard. Are you interested in recreating the style of your favorite resort? Do you want a tropical look or something reminiscent of a Mediterranean retreat? Options abound.
Backyard Features
Another thing to consider is the addition of special features that will make your yard more interesting, attractive, and entertaining. Some ideas include:
Outdoor living spaces
Outdoor kitchens, grills, & pizza ovens
Fountains & other water features
Fireplaces & fire pits
Interactive & mood lighting
Pool lounge areas
A hydrotherapeutic heated spa
Attractive hardscapes, including walkways & bridges
Landscaping that integrates into the pool area
Process Length
How long will the pool building process take from start to finish? What needs to get done before the building process can begin? What factors might shift the schedule one way or the other? These are some of the questions you need to ask to get a good idea of how long the entire project will take.
Types Of Pools Available
You may have a vision of your perfect pool, but is this type of pool doable in your part of the world? Will soil conditions allow it? Will it hold up well in your climate? Find out which types of pools will and will not work on your property and take stock of your builder’s recommendations.
Will Costs Go Up?
When building a pool, one thing to know is whether costs might increase. You’ve budgeted for your pool project. How do you know if this will be enough?
As always, talk with your builder beforehand and insist on getting upfront answers. Costs may rise if the material prices suddenly increase and your builder can’t find a supplier willing to go down in price. Ask about alternate material options. Costs may also rise if you decide you want changes midway, so be sure to iron things out as much as possible beforehand.
Modern Features
More than ever, swimming pool areas can include a wide range of modern features that add elegance and a higher level of interest to the overall design. Your builder can tell you more about how these features can fit with your plan. Features to consider include:
Rock waterfalls
Decorative fountains
Deck jets
Fire features
Color-changing LED lights
Cabanas
Outdoor living & dining areas
Hidden speakers
Custom decking
Creative seating options
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