Swimming pools offer plenty of benefits to a property and its owners. It provides a space for entertaining guests and can even serve as a practice area for swimming athletes and professionals. Having a pool built within your property can also enhance its curb appeal and boost its value should you decide to sell.
But, if you’re planning to dive into a swimming pool project, you need to think about what you really want to do with it. Are you after the luxury it offers? Or do you merely want to match your neighbor’s lifestyle? Can you even afford it?
From planning and building to the maintenance and upkeep, having a swimming pool should be thought through thoroughly. Before even calling up a pool contractor, you must first think about certain considerations first, including:
1. Your Purpose
Before you can proceed with designing a swimming pool, you must first determine the very reason why you’re building one. If you’re not alone in the house, make sure you talk with everyone living with you. Be it your partner, children, or other members of the household, it is important that you convene about why each person wants to have a pool.
During this time, you should also be able to define the purpose that the structure will serve for each of you. Will it be for swimming practice for an athlete in the family? Or is someone in need of a pool for therapeutic reasons? Maybe you plan to have guests over for pool parties?
After you answer these questions and more, you should be able to decide on the following factors listed in this article.
2. The Type of Pool You Want
After you’ve settled the reason why you want a pool in the first place, it is time to think about the type of structure to be built. Some of the things you should also think about are the materials to be used, dimensions, and the kind of water circulation you want for your pool.
Material
In-ground pools can be made using three main types of materials: concrete, fiberglass, and vinyl-lined. Make sure to weigh the benefits of each one and see whether they outweigh the disadvantages each of them brings.
If you have no idea where to begin, research about it online or ask for a pool builder’s opinion. Doing the latter is the most recommended since it will help you understand certain aspects of the project that only industry experts can explain.
Size and Depth
Another important pool design consideration is its dimensions. The size and depth of the pool will depend on what you plan to use it for. The size of the property and your local building code also need to be considered for this.
As for the depth, most pools that are used for training should be deep enough for a dive. However, if you have children in the house or plan to have some over in the future, you might want to consider a pool design with shallower sides and a less dramatic depth transition.
Shape
Older pools have the traditional rectangular shape with rounded or cut corners. These shapes are most ideal if you or a member of your household will be swimming laps. However, these often have less visual impact, which means they won’t do your property appeal any good.
For outdoor relaxation and guest entertainment, you might want to consider building a swimming pool with a more irregular and rounded shape. This will mimic the aesthetic of a natural pond, add to your property’s curb appeal, and serve as a great gathering spot for friends and family.
Circulation System
The pool circulation system is a crucial aspect to be considered as it would determine the extent of maintenance needed for the structure. Aside from choosing between having it built indoors or outdoors, you also need to decide whether you want a saltwater pool or a chlorine pool.
3. Your Budget
As with any other building project, you must also consider your financial capability of covering the construction of a swimming pool. While keeping maintenance, pool accessories, and longevity in mind, you should think about how much you can spare for this project.
If necessary, speak with a financial advisor regarding the costs and weigh them out with the benefits it can provide you and your property. Some options you have for financing this project include credit lines, savings, home loans, family contribution, and inheritance, among others.
4. The Pool Contractor
The last, but certainly not the least, of your concerns is the swimming pool contractor you want to hire. Avoiding unnecessary costs and unforeseen setbacks entails hiring experienced professionals for the job. You must also pick a company that you can trust and those who have a good reputation among people you know.
Time to Dive In
Building a swimming pool is a major project that requires a significant amount of time and money. To avoid making the wrong decision, take your time thinking about the different factors that can make or break the project. Only then would you be able to enjoy the benefits of the structure to be built.
