6 Things to Know Before Constructing a Swimming Pool

Would you love to add a swimming pool to your home? Having a pool in your backyard means several hours with your friends and family lounging and splashing. A pool is an excellent home upgrade which you can build to your specifications and preferences. If you opt for a custom-made pool, you can choose the materials, size, shape, and extra features. 

However, a swimming pool is a major home investment with several available options. Therefore, you must consider some things before contacting pool contractors. This is significant to ensure you are truly adding an upgrade that adds value to your home. 

This article will show you things to know before undertaking this project. Continue reading to discover how to build a swimming pool that best serves you and your family. 

Consider Your Needs

As you would do with other major home upgrades, start by determining why you need a swimming pool in your home. 

Do you need it to practice swimming laps or entertain guests? Do you need the pool to reduce your children’s screen time and welcome their friends? Or do you want the pool to be a centerpiece in your backyard? These are the examples of questions you should ask yourself when planning to add a swimming pool to your home. 

Your answers to these questions and related ones will help you determine the pool type, shape, size, and materials. Once you are clear about your pool needs, other things become easy.

Consider the Size

When building your swimming pool, you must ensure it’s big enough to serve your purpose and accommodate your needs. Nevertheless, it must not be too big to make maintenance become an issue or take considerable yard space. 

Since you already determined your needs as discussed above, it will help you determine the right size for you effortlessly. If you need a swimming pool to practice, you want to make it long and narrow. On the other hand, a broad and shallow pool can be ideal for you to relax and entertain friends. 

Additionally, you must consider the available space in your backyard and how well the pool will blend well when determining an ideal size. The pool should never cover most parts of your yard and it must never be too small when compared to other backyard features. 

Consider Your Local Laws

Before you start your swimming pool construction, you must understand the local building regulations to ensure you are not breaking any law. If you refuse to do so and your pool construction violates any rule can lead to substantial fines or jail time. 

Note that these regulations are different from state to state. Therefore, do your homework before you undertake a swimming pool project. Check homeowners’ bylaws in your community to know the restrictions on placement or if fencing is essential.

Furthermore, get your city permits to ensure you or your pool builder meets the requirements to construct a pool. Moreover, verify if there are utilities under the ground of your yard before digging. Contact the utilities body to know how close your pool can be to water pipes or sewer lines around. This might also help you determine how far you are allowed to dig. 

Additionally, check for any setback requirements to determine your pool placement. Also, find out if there’s any limitation on your property’s terrain and never forget to ask about construction site access. 

Set a Budget

Another essential thing you must do before constructing a pool in your home is setting a budget. You must know that adding a pool to your home is not a one-time expense. You must put the upfront and the long-term expenses into consideration. 

Do your research to know how much your pool will cost. This will depend on the materials, design, size, and type. Yet, don’t hesitate to shop around. Consider the costs of other features needed for pool installation. Such features include decks, covers, heating systems, patios, spa areas, landscaping, and water features. 

Never forget running and maintenance costs. These costs may include water chlorination, pump servicing, cleaning, and filters cost. 

Never leave any stone unturned, consider all aspects from groundwork and final touches to maintenance. Remember, a well-thought budget will make your pool construction process smooth and save you a lot of financial headaches. 

Choose a Pool Type

Choosing a pool type depends largely on your needs and tastes. You can choose from several pool types options to serve your purpose. Common types include in-ground, above-ground, and infinity edge pools. Each pool type is unique with their pros and cons.

Above-ground pools are pocket-friendlier than in-ground pools. In-ground pools are durable and customizable. An in-ground pool can be the best one for you if you want a lot of options. On the other hand, infinity edge pools are the most visually pleasing pools with sleek modern designs. 

Consider the Pool Finishes

Your pool finishes can determine the aesthetics of your swimming pool. Most homeowners use tiles in mosaic or large designs to finish their pools. You can use non-slip tiles around the shallow spaces and stairs. 

It is best to avoid using slate or natural stone because of its porosity. This is because slate can change color and leave residues on the pool floor. Nevertheless, you can test such stone against pool chemicals if you must use it. 

Use a rendered finish to waterproof your pool floor and walls. If you are building a stainless pool, you can leave it bare or polish it with a mirror finish. Moreover, PVC liners are an affordable finish. Overall, consider your pool type and materials when choosing the best finish. 

Constructing Your Dream Swimming Pool

If planning and consideration are not given enough thought, building a swimming pool can become intimidating. Above are some factors you must consider to site a suitable pool that will serve you for years. 

Understand your needs, set a budget, select a pool type and materials, review your local laws, and choose the perfect finishes to build a practical and aesthetically pleasing swimming pool on your property. Get ready for a lot of fun!