Five Things to Consider Before Having a Pool Installed
Having a professionally installed pool is one of the most elating things a homeowner can experience. Not only does it provide numerous relaxing benefits and help to get you outside and into the sun, but it also gives you somewhere to host parties and have late-night barbecues.
Before you can get to that point, though, there are some things you’ll need to consider before you make that leap. Here are the top five things to think about before having a pool installed:
#1: Check Local Regulations
Most cities will have regulations regarding how, when, where, and who can build a pool in your yard. For example, some cities may require it be done by a professional while others are more lenient and will let you do it yourself.
Regardless of where you live, the first step to having a pool installed in your backyard should always be to check your local laws and regulations so that you don’t get in trouble later after the construction money is already spent. Not to mention you’ll be able to avoid those potentially unpleasant interactions (and arguments with your HOA). Most counties will require a fence of some sort to reduce the chance of a neighborhood kid from falling into your pool. There are many different types of fences available, and no matter what you choose for your yard perimeter, we always recommend a Baby Barrier safety fence. You can read about the wonderful features of the Baby Barrier fence.
#2: Type of Pool
Most people don’t consider what type of pool they want in terms of material. Rather, they jump at the first style they see that seems appropriate for their home.
However, it is important that you take some time to discuss with your family what type of pool suits you best. For example, concrete pools are most sturdy, but they’re also more expensive and harder to get rid of if ever you decide you don’t want it. Vinyl pools, on the other hand, are much safer for small children but also pose the risk of getting rips and tears.
Regardless of how excited you are, it’s always a good idea to take some time, analyze the pros and cons, and figure out what pool is best for you.
#3: Maintenance
Another thing many homeowners fail to consider while they’re caught up in the excitement of having a pool installed is maintenance. Pools don’t take care of themselves, so if you don’t think you can handle the upkeep, it’s probably best to settle with an above-ground pool that can be put up and taken down as needed.
To give you an idea of the maintenance a pool requires, you’ll have to shock the pool at least yearly and sometimes multiple times a year, vacuum debris out of the bottom using a pool vacuum, skim the pool regularly to remove leaves and insects, and cover it during rain/thunderstorms.
#4: Budget
Naturally, the budget you’re operating will have a profound effect on what type of pool you can afford and, as a result, can affect the remaining factors as well.
We recommend determining your budget first, before doing anything else. This will help you in the long run by keeping your feet on the ground and your plans within a certain dollar amount. Pools can be expensive, so it’s easy to go over budget if you aren’t paying attention. Local builders can let you know what costs may be. You can also check social media sites like Nextdoor or Facebook to see what neighbors in your area recently paid for their pools.
#5: Safety
The most important aspect of having a pool installed is understanding the safety measures that you’ll have to take to prevent an accident. This may include things like covering the pool during inclement weather, ensuring people aren’t running around the pool so they won’t slip, and making sure children know not to dive into the shallow end where they can hit their heads.
The biggest aspect of pool safety, though, is making sure you have a pool safety fence properly installed so that young children and pets don’t accidentally wander in and fall. Not only will this help you prevent a catastrophe, but it will also help you maintain peace of mind.
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Pools, while exciting, can also pose issues if you don’t know what you’re doing.
If you’re considering having a pool installed, we recommend you start thinking about pool safety now, rather than later. Visit our blog for more information on pool safety fences and installation, as well as tips on which materials to choose and where to place them. Give us a call or complete our online contact form now.
