Swimming pools have been a centerpiece for recreation and excitement longer than most people remember. Pools remained essentially uniformly rectangular no matter where they were built until the 1960s when an adventurous architect challenged the norm by designing a kidney-shaped pool. Since then, pools’ sizes and shapes have become more and more varied.
Now that you have decided to make the most of your yard by installing a swimming pool, you may be excited about the prospect and looking forward to enjoying your new investment. However, there are some things you must consider before starting the installation process.
1. Type
There are three types of pools: above-ground, in-ground, and semi-inground. Each class has specific characteristics that dictate the best places to install them based on your budget and design. It is crucial to learn more about each type of pool to better understand the requirements and limitations before choosing.
The main reason why you should learn more is to be able to determine the right model that will fit your home. For example, if you are not interested in spending too much, or you are not sure for how long you will be living in the current home, then the best solution is to install the above-ground option. On the other hand, another solution brings higher quality, bigger sizes available, and more fun.
2. Materials
These go hand in hand with the type of pool you select. Pools are constructed using vinyl, fiberglass, or concrete. Vinyl is used chiefly in building above-ground pools. Fiberglass and concrete are excellent materials, though fiberglass tends to limit you to specific designs and pool surface coverings, while concrete allows for more versatility.
The fiberglass option is less expensive and easier to install. However, concrete allows you to make it more unique. On the other hand, the maintenance of the first option is much cheaper. Besides that, the installation lasts only for a couple of days, while it takes several months to build a concrete pool.
When it comes to additional features, you can find many accessories and add-ons that will improve the experience. For example, you can add a water slide or a Jacuzzi. If you want to make an indoor option, it is very popular for any to add a separate part as a sauna bath.
3. Budget and Time
The pool you can install will be a product of how much you are willing to spend and the time you are ready to allow for installation. These factors are directly proportional to the types and materials.
Above-ground vinyl pools are the cheapest to install. They will also take the least amount of time to set up. If you are comfortable with the prospect of a costlier, longer-term project, look into in-ground concrete pools. Constructing these pools takes some considerable time, sometimes months, to complete. Concrete pools, however, are more durable than fiberglass and vinyl pools, so they will last longer if well maintained.
Your budget also dictates what additional features and extras you can commission if any. The more elaborate additions like caves and twisty slides will require more money and time to actualize. If you want to add additional features, you have to be prepared to include extra effort and resources. Also, you will have to choose the concrete option. It is recommended to people with large backyards. The main advantage is that the whole family can have a lot of a great time there. Besides that, you can invite friends, make pool parties, and more.
4. Water Circulation and Sanitation
The water in the pool must be cared for and maintained at certain recommended levels to certify that it remains safe to swim in. Ensure that you get a quality circulation system to keep up with the demands of the pool, maintaining its clean and fresh state.
In addition, consider the type of sanitation technology you will use. Chlorine generators are standard but do have a corrosive effect over time. Technology today offers better options with less harsh methods. MuchNeeded.com recommends considering having robotic cleaners, as they save you a lot of time, cause bacterias to diminish, and protect the pool from corrosion.
It is crucial to pay attention to the proper maintenance of technical parts and the quality of water. If you avoid dealing with technical parts, you could face serious malfunctions, that will require more money and time to fix. When it comes to the quality of water, be sure to use all necessary filters and additional products.
5. Landscaping
Installing the pool is not the end of the story. The surrounding areas must also be cared for to match the landscaping to the pool. The landscaping is best done to highlight and integrate the pool into the rest of the yard. It’s best to leave this to an expert as they are better equipped to plan and execute the landscaping in a way that will have a pleasing outcome.
Take your time before beginning the pool installation process to form a sound operational strategy which may help make it easier to overcome any obstacles you may encounter along the way. You should also vet and hire a local pool builder whose expertise has been established and proven to help guide you through the process.
Therefore, never rush with your decision. Contact an expert who will recommend various solutions depending on the size of your backyard, additional options, time of building, and more. Also, if you live in an area with drastic changes in weather conditions, the best option is to choose an indoor or half-indoor pool.
Last Words
As you can see, there are various options for pools today. It is very important to learn more about technical aspects and how to determine the right solution for your home. Also, be aware of the additional expenses related to maintenance and cleaning. Besides that, the key is to choose a company with lots of experience who will help you to install the right option.
On the other side, in case that your main goal for installing a pool is to increase the value of your property, be aware of the fact that it can be quite tricky today. Having a pool in the backyard can be very attractive, and some people might decide to buy your house only because of that. However, it doesn’t necessarily mean that it will increase the value. Therefore, you should consider other factors like the values of similar homes in the area, and what additional amount will a pool add to the price.
