Pool 101: Factors to Consider Before You Build Your Own Swimming Pool

Are you thirsting for a respite from the heat? Do you dream of just walking out of your door and going straight to your very own swimming pool? Have you thought of what considerations you should first think about before you take the plunge?

Before you go ahead and have your backyard excavated, you should first consult with reputable swimming pool builders.

While lounging and lazing in your own pool is easy to imagine, actually getting a swimming pool built requires more than just fantasizing about one.

Before Taking the Plunge

If you don’t want to drown in pool problems (pun intended), it is ideal that you take the time to plan your pool project carefully. It’s not enough that you get a sprinkling of ideas. What you should do is to really get in and soak up important information to avoid swimming in regret later on.

One of the most important factors that you should consider is to look for a swimming pool builder whom you can trust. Ask trusted friends or family for referrals, scour the Internet for rave reviews, or visit the office of a well-regarded swimming pool contractor.

Having a swimming pool built as part of your property entails a lot of hard work. It’s not as if you’re just going to inflate a kiddie pool in your backyard. Aside from the design, you also have to go over certain details such as checking if the builders are using the right waterproof paint, or if the surface finish follows safety regulations.

To help you, here are some important factors that you should consider before you start your swimming pool building project:

1. Purpose

Why are you building a swimming pool?

This is the first question that you should answer. From there, you can then map out the direction that will lead you to build the pool of your dreams. Do you want a pool for private use or for business? Will you be renting out your house or leasing it? How many people will be using it? The answers to these questions will determine the succeeding factors such as the design and size of your pool.

For example, if it’s just you who’s going to use it for swimming laps, then perhaps you don’t really need a large, expensive infinity pool. Or perhaps if it’s for a villa for rent, then maybe you can design it in such a way that it will look like a resort or recreational pool complete with slides and a hot tub.

2. Location

Where will you build your pool? Do you have a big enough yard to accommodate it? Will you be opting for an indoor pool? The location will also call for you to take the necessary action regarding zoning laws or housing rules and regulations. There may be some legal requirements that you need to meet before you can build your own pool.

3. Budget

How much are you willing to invest in your swimming pool project? Your budget will vary depending on the design, size, and other accouterments that you want to go with your pool.

For example, an above-ground pool can cost relatively lower than a saltwater pool or an infinity pool complete with a pool house. Adding features such as a hot tub, a plunge pool, or even built-in fountains and slides can also rack up the numbers.

4. Design and Style

Some like their pools to be sleek and modern, while others opt for rustic natural designs. Depending on the purpose, location, budget, and personal preferences, the design of your pool can take on many forms. It can come in a variety of colors, textures, and with all the bells and whistles that you can think of. You should also talk to your swimming pool builder about the best surface and pool finish. The wrong ones can compromise ease of maintenance, hygiene, safety, and visual appearance.

For example, non-slip material should be used, especially in critical areas such as around stairs or shallow areas. Pool finishes also come in various types such as stainless steel, tiles, or PVC liners. In addition to waterproof paint, a rendered finish can also enhance its look.

5. Size and Volume

You will also need to consider the size and volume of your pool depending on your specific requirements. If you have a spacious yard, then you can consider having a natural pool built in it, complete with landscaping, plants, and other features that mimic a lagoon or pond (without the murky waters, of course).  If space is limited, then maybe a decent-sized spool (a type that combines the features of a spa and a pool) would do the trick.

The volume of the pool will also depend on your preferences. If you have small kids, then maybe it would be prudent to have a kiddie pool built into it. A pool that cascades from shallow to very deep may also be applicable, especially if there are different people (with different swimming capabilities) who will be using it.

Get Help from the Right Pool Contractor

These are but a few of the basic considerations before building your swimming pool.

You can also talk to your pool builder about specific pool equipment you’ll need, such as the water filtration system, heaters, pumps, and the like. Other established swimming pool contractors also include landscaping services around the pool area as well as pool maintenance services. It’s critical that you choose a trusted swimming pool supplier, as their expertise and experience will help ensure you adhere to your budget during and after the pool building process.

When you entrust your pool project to the right team, then you can also expect great results.