Things You Should Know Before You Buy a Backyard Pool

An outdoor pool can provide an effective way to gain exercise while taking advantage of the summer sunshine, but before making this investment, there are certain things to keep in mind.

Make sure there is enough space for a pool, patio and landscaping. Don’t forget privacy too – perhaps a fence, shrubs or bushes might add the needed security measures.

Costs

Addition of an in ground pool can be an expensive venture. Starting prices for in ground pools start around $55,000, though costs could increase depending on size, shape and design options.

Your budget should also consider the costs associated with pool equipment, landscaping and possible fencing. In ground pools may be constructed using fiberglass, vinyl or concrete lining and require digging into the earth to hold back water.

Each of these choices impacts the cost to build, so you should be aware of the price when you make your decision. For example, concrete pools tend to be the most durable but have higher upfront costs than other materials.

If your budget is tight, consider an above-ground pool which sits on top of your yard. These units are typically constructed from aluminum, steel or resin and can be assembled and dismantled without too much difficulty as a DIY project. They’re more affordable than their in ground counterparts and come in various shapes, sizes and colors – ideal if you have kids!

Also keep in mind that pools increase utility bills by 9-27$ monthly as you must add water and chemicals for upkeep – both essential parts of pool ownership!

Maintenance

Your backyard pool provides a fun and healthy way for you and your family to exercise and unwind during the heat of summer, but requires regular upkeep in order to remain clean and safe for swimming. You can click the link: https://time.com/4688623/swimming-pool-health-benefits/ to find out more about the health benefits of swimming.

While some tasks such as skimming the surface of the water and emptying out its skimmer basket are easily done yourself, other work requires professional services.

Your backyard pool must remain sanitized at all times; therefore, its proximity to trees and bushes that release pollen, petals, leaves, or other forms of debris requires extra work for both chlorine and filter systems to remove it – driving up chemical costs significantly.

Make sure to brush the surface of your pool daily and before vacuuming to prevent bacteria build-up and contaminants from building up, while checking water chemistry regularly (a safe pH level should be 7). 

If necessary, “shock” the water with an extra dose of sanitizer to neutralize any imbalanced conditions and eradicate bacteria or organic waste present. Also take this opportunity to check filter pressure as any blockages could inhibit pump performance and cause improper functioning.

Safety

Backyard pools provide many recreational and health benefits when used safely. To avoid accidental drowning or injuries from misusing their pool, owners must take necessary measures, including having at least five-foot tall four-sided isolation fence with self-closing locking gate that prohibits climbing; they must also make sure that no footholds or handholds exist on it so as to discourage climbing attempts.

Other safety measures include making sure all family members and guests understand basic water safety, swimming skills, and the significance of wearing U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets. 

In particular, parents and caretakers should learn to recognize signs of swimmer distress quickly in order to respond promptly by calling 911 or providing CPR (there are many schools, community centers and the Red Cross offering CPR certification courses).

To reduce the risk of accidents, designating a water watcher who remains within arm’s reach of young children, and ensure no one swims under the influence of alcohol or drugs should help minimize accidents. 

Backyard pool owners should create and practice an emergency action plan in the event of an accident and stock their pool with lifesaving equipment such as an alarm system, first aid kit, reaching or throwing assistance devices and phone numbers for calling 911 are important precautions against accidents.

Design

A backyard pool is more than just water-based fun: It can also serve as an integral design element that impacts how you spend time outside. 

Your size, shape and accessories selections should reflect how you intend to use the space; for instance, lap swimmers may prefer a more functional layout that maximizes swim times; families seeking to entertain may opt for more lush outdoor spaces with plenty of seating areas. You can visit sites like https://www.pinterest.com/ for styling ideas.

Landscape design can have a substantial influence on pool design, from selecting plants to their placement and arrangement. If you want your pool to feel like an idyllic getaway, white pavers might be ideal; or for something more desert-inspired, cacti or shrubs can add character.

One key consideration when building your pool is deciding between building a deck or patio around it. Decks offer an elevated, luxurious aesthetic while patios blend more easily into the environment of your backyard.