Many homeowners dream of a day when they can finally install a pool in their yard. The amount of enjoyment a family can get from a backyard pool is difficult to overstate. It can be a fun place to splash and play, while also giving people a nice place to relax and enjoy the outdoors without overheating in the hot summer months. A new pool requires much more than simply digging a hole in the yard and filling it with water. Before you start planning your new swimming pool installation, here are 9 important considerations to take a look at.
9 Questions You Should Ask Before Building a Pool
1. What Kind of Pool?
Pool designs have come a long way over the years, giving people plenty more ways to get creative with the type and size of the pool they want to install. For example, if you have young children who will be swimming in the pool on a regular basis, you will definitely want to have a shallow end where they can swim safely.
- Are you interested in a lap pool to help you stay in shape with daily swims?
- Will you want the pool to be the focal point of your yard
- Would you prefer something a little more understated?
With help from a pool design and planning team, you will be able to make these determinations fairly easily.
2. Zoning Laws
Some zoning laws in certain areas are more restrictive than others. Before you start your new swimming pool installation, it is important to become familiar with the restrictions that apply to your property. This includes the required maintenance for a property with a pool, as well as the liability laws that apply to you as the property owner. In most cases, it will be possible to build a new pool, but it is important to be aware of any additional responsibilities that apply to own a pool. Here is Pool Regulation in British Columbia.
3. Short Term Budget
The cost of a new swimming pool installation will vary depending on a wide range of factors. As you plan your pool design, it is important to be well aware of any associated costs and modifications to your property that will be required. You may need to extend an existing fence to meet the required building and safety codes. You may need to build a shed or cabana to house your new pool equipment safely. There are plenty of budgetary considerations to be made at the outset of your pool installation.
4. Long Term Budget
Over time a pool will require continuous maintenance and upkeep, not to mention the need for new and upgraded equipment. All of these costs will add up over time, which is why it is vital to make some long term budgetary considerations before committing to pool installation. You will need to make regular purchases for the pool such as chlorine and other cleaners, as well as sporadic purchases when equipment or components need to be replaced.
5. Shop for Circulation Systems
A new swimming pool will require an adequate system that can keep the water flowing clean at all times. Currently, there are many types of systems to choose from, and each one has its benefits and potential drawbacks. Your choice will greatly depend on the type and size of the pool you have installed, but other factors like exposing skin to chemicals can also impact your decision. For example, if you or a family member has skin that is sensitive to chlorine, you may want to steer clear of the chlorine systems and opt for a saltwater circulation system instead.
6. Added Features
Once you have the basic considerations out of the way you can start to think of added features for customizing your pool. Things like underwater lighting, jets and water features can be the perfect way to make the new pool truly yours.
7. Time Management
Sometimes time can be a factor when having a new swimming pool installed. If you want to make the most of your first season with your pool, and it’s already May, you may want to select materials for your pool that can be installed faster. A fibreglass pool can be installed in a fraction of the time it takes to pour a concrete base for a pool of the same size. When time isn’t a factor, it is often best to go with the more solid concrete option, but with a quality fibreglass pool installation, you really can’t go wrong either.
8. Consider the Weather
Before making such a large purchase and committing a bunch of yard space to a swimming pool installation, you should consider how often you’ll be able to use the pool. In the mild climate of Southern BC, homeowners will likely get a lot of use out of their pool each season. In a more rainy and cold climate up north, however, it may not make as much sense to purchase a pool that you will only get to use for 2-3 months each year.
9. Future Maintenance
Lots of pool owners fail to consider how much actual work goes into owning a pool. Keeping the water clean and the filter running is one thing, but what about when something breaks down in the future. It is important to consider who is available and able to look after your pool in your area. While you’re at it, you can compare prices of pool care services and decide which service best suits your needs and budget.
If you have more questions or concerns, please contact GRN Pool and Landscape for more detail.