If you’re planning on installing a custom swimming pool, you know that there are numerous options to choose from. You’re idea of the perfect swimming pool will vary from those of your neighbours. Then there’s the family budget to consider, as well.
It’s never a good idea to jump into a project as permanent as a swimming pool without carefully considering what you really want and can reasonably afford. Here are four important things to consider before actually hiring a swimming pool contractor.
Why Do You Want A Pool?
Prospective pool owners should ask themselves these questions before buying: Why do I want a pool and what is it for?
Some of the reasons for wanting a pool include:
- Personal recreation
- Family recreation
- Exercise
- Physical therapy
- Entertaining
- Water safety instruction
Once you decide on the “why,” it will be easier to decide on the type of pool you want.
Does Size Matter?
It isn’t necessarily true that bigger is better. Apart from paying more for a large swimming pool, you must take into consideration how much of the backyard you’re willing to sacrifice for the pool, as well as what size of swimming pool will actually suit the space you have. A swimming pool builder can help you make the decision about what size of pool will reasonably fit in your yard.
Sometimes, a smaller pool will suit a family’s needs, as well as the backyard it’s installed in. This is often the best choice and cheaper to build, as well.
Consider the Maintenance
Keeping a swimming pool maintained can be expensive and time-consuming. Various water tests must be done on a regular basis and chlorine added accordingly. The filter will need to be cleaned every now and then and the pool itself drained and cleaned at intervals.
Hiring a professional to properly maintain your pool is the best option. A pool contractor will come out several times during pool season to perform routine maintenance like vacuuming the pool floor, monitoring water levels, balancing chemicals in the pool and keeping the pump serviced.
Alternately, you can add a robotic pool cleaner as an option for your pool. Salt water pools generate their own chlorine and so eliminate the need to buy, transport and store chemicals.
Additional Costs
All swimming pools need a filtration system to keep the water clean, steps or ladders and skimmers for surface cleaning. If you install heating equipment, poolside decking and landscaping, that too, is extra.
A pool cover is a smart investment, as it will help to keep the pool water warm and clean when the pool isn’t in use. It’s also a great safety measure.
Pool lights, diving boards, slides and other such accessories are all extras that can be added after construction but it’s more economical to have fixed pool equipment installed at the time the pool is being built.
A security fence with a self-closing gate is a wise safety precaution and, indeed, may be required by local laws.