You’ve decided you want a pool but summer is gone and it’s a long wait until spring. However, you can make wise use of this time. Building a swimming pool is no small feat. It takes a lot of thought and planning if you want to make sure it ends up being everything you dreamed it could be. Winter is the perfect time to plan for a swimming pool because it gives you lots of time to think things through and look at all of your options.
Gather Ideas
The first thing you need to do is to determine what you want in a swimming pool. You can get ideas from:
- Pinterest boards
- Pool photo galleries
- Luxury pool photo galleries
Gather the ideas that you love together in a photo book that you can show a builder.
Establish a Budget
Early on, determine how much you have to spend. Costs may increase as planning and building progresses, so you need to know your limit and let your pool builder know what that is.
Find a Reliable Builder
Check out prospective swimming pool builders with organizations like the Better Business Bureau. Family and friends can also recommend builders that they’ve been happy with.
Choose Your Pool Location Carefully
You can suggest where you want your pool to be but your contractor may have another suggestion. Natural surroundings, the best view, soil quality and privacy will all factor in to choosing the right location. Be flexible.
Think About How the Pool Will be Used
How you plan on using the pool could mean that you’ll want options like a pool heater, landscape lighting or a water slide. Some potential uses:
- Swimming laps
- Entertaining
- Children’s swimming
Check Local Building Codes
Your pool builder will help you get the proper building permits but it’s a good idea to know the regulations before you even hire a builder. Many cities and towns require a safety fence and there may be laws restricting where you can build or how far away from the road or another property the pool must be.
Be Eco-Friendly
Look into rebates for using eco-friendly equipment that will help save energy and money. Your local government may offer green incentives.
Consider Maintenance
The matter of who will clean and maintain the pool is an important issue. You can do it yourself or hire a professional so you don’t have to worry about it. Some pool builders have their own service department.
Check with Your Insurance Broker
You will want to make sure that your homeowner’s policy covers your pool. Check with your agent before you begin building.
Safety
Safety is of the utmost importance when it comes to swimming pools. You will need to create layers of protection to keep children, animals and guests safe around the pool. Some safety features include fencing, safety covers and alarms.