Top Ten Things to Consider Before Installing a Swimming Pool

Most people imagine having a lovely home with a swimming pool somewhere in the backyard where they can go to relax and have a good time. Having a swimming pool enhances the aesthetics of your home, gives it that extra wow factor, and will no doubt make your kids and their friends happy. 

A swimming pool is a significant investment with a wide range of options. Like any other investment, it is essential to know what it entails and how you can get the best out of it.

We have examined the top ten things you want to consider before installing a pool in your home. 

Top Ten Things to Consider Before Installing a Swimming Pool

Your Reasons for Wanting a Pool

The first thing you want to consider before you begin is why you want the pool. The purpose of the pool will determine its shape, depth, size, and type. Will you be using your pool for relaxation?

Is it for your kids, or do you want it to make your home look more beautiful and enhance its value? 

Having a clear idea will help decide how to go about construction.

You can now begin to talk to a pool builder about your idea and how to make the best choice for your home. 

Site Suitability 

The site where you intend to install your pool will affect its depth, design, shape, size, and construction costs.

Evenly level sites are the best for a swimming pool. Building a pool on a site that slopes steeply brings several challenges and will cost more.

Sandy, rocky, or unstable soils can make building your pool more tasking. 

Shading from close buildings and urban regulations can also affect the suitability of your site. You may need to make relevant inquiries to determine if and what type of pool you can build on your site. 

Location of the Pool 

If you determine that your site is suitable for a pool, the next thing you want to do is decide on an exact spot in your yard for the pool. The factors to consider before choosing your pool site include: 

  • Access

How will swimmers enter and exit the pool? Will they be able to hang around the pool for entertainment?

  • Storage

Will you have space to store your toys, sun umbrellas, pool cleaner, and filtration equipment? 

  • View

How would your pool look from within your home and surroundings? Are there extra features you can add to make your pool look better?

  • Sun Exposure

Does the location maximize sun exposure so the pool can remain warm? The presence of trees around the pool can block sunlight, and their leaves can fall into the pool. Wind exposure can cool the water and increase evaporation. You may have to build screens to shelter your pool. 

Your Homeowner’s Insurance Policy

If you already have a homeowner’s insurance policy, you have to consider how it may be affected by a pool. There are several types of homeowner’s insurance policies with different requirements for swimming pool coverage.

Most homeowner’s insurance policies cover in-ground and above-ground pools and will pay for medical bills or lawsuits due to incidents in and around the pool.

The pool damage coverage from wear and tear or other incidents like natural disasters depends on your insurance carrier. 

If you want to install a pool on your property, you should speak to your insurer about increasing your liability limits. 

Should You Build Above or Below the Ground?

Another important consideration when building a pool is whether it should be above or below the ground. Above-ground pools require soil excavation, which can be costly, while in-ground pools have a more permanent touch.

However, installing an above-ground fiberglass pool may be quicker and cheaper if you have a steep site. 

Construction Materials 

The most common materials for constructing pools are concrete, fiberglass composite, and vinyl. The landscape of your home and the surrounding areas will be pointers to the most suitable material for building your pool. 

If you want a customized pool, concrete offers the most flexibility for shape, depth, and size. Fiberglass composite pools are premade but come in a broad range of styles, shapes, sizes, and colors. They are also durable and easier to install.

Project Cost

Building a swimming pool can be a cost-intensive project, so you have to secure funding before you begin. Installing a pool in your home will cost you between $35,000 and $55,000, and concrete pools are typically more expensive than vinyl and fiberglass composite pools. 

You may also have to factor in other expenses heating, landscaping, covers, and decking.

The cost of maintaining the pool overtime should also be considered when budgeting. 

Project Handler

Building a pool requires some skill, and it is advisable to seek out a reliable contractor.

Like any other project, unplanned occurrences may arise, and you want someone who has experience dealing with such matters. It would help get recommendations from acquaintances who have had pools constructed recently.

Special Features

Would you like your pool to make a statement anytime someone enters your home, or want your pool to blend in with an understated feel? You can customize your pool with and surrounding deck with tiles, pebbles, colored quartz, and marble plaster. 

You can make a statement with your pool by adding underwater lighting, dynamic jets, and cascading waters for a unique touch. This fitting will add to the cost of your project, so you want to consider them carefully. 

Pool Maintenance 

Maintenance is a crucial part of having a swimming pool, as a well-maintained pool can significantly increase your property’s market value.

Conversely, a badly maintained pool can considerably decrease your property’s market value. Consider hiring trained professionals for your pool maintenance if you cannot do it yourself. 

Final Words

Installing a swimming pool in your home is an excellent investment in more ways than one. However, you must know what you are doing to make it worthwhile.

You must do your homework before you embark on such a project, and the ten points we have discussed are a good place to start.

Julie Higgins
Author
Julie is a Staff Writer at momooze.com. She has been working in publishing houses before joining the editorial team at momooze. Julie's love and passion are topics around beauty, lifestyle, hair and nails.