So, you’ve finally decided to upgrade and put a pool in the backyard—congratulations! Of course, now comes the hard work of figuring out all the details. What pool will you buy? Who should install it? Are certain types better than others? What about adding upgrades like lights, a hot tub, or even a poolside barbecue or kitchen? There are a lot of options available today, so it helps if you have a plan.
First, you will want to think about your budget—although you need to consider other factors, what you have to spend is going to set the pace for the entire project. Someone with a $50,000 backyard upgrade budget has quite different options than someone looking to spend less than $20,000, for example. Once you know what price bracket you’re in, you’ll be better able to narrow your options.
Pool Types
You will typically have two main options when you are installing a new pool: geometric pools or freeform pools. Both can be made from fiberglass shells or other materials, which means you can get exactly what you want in that regard, as well. Pools are made of vinyl, fiberglass, or concrete. Each has its pros and cons to consider.
You’ll also need to decide whether you’re installing an above-ground pool or an in-ground pool, and what type of pump system you want to go with it. Your pool installer can help you with these technical decisions to ensure that you get the right equipment for maximum pool enjoyment.
Add-Ons
Today, you can get a lot more than just a pool. Once you start looking, you’ll find water features, lighting, heaters, and plenty of other features that you can add to your pool to create a totally unique space. Make sure that you know about these when planning your budget and work in the ones that matter most to you.
If you just want a simple pool with steps and a couple of ladders with some lights for safety, that’s fine. And if you want to go all out, that’s fine too.
Zoning and Building Considerations
Installing a pool is a big job. It’s also one that usually requires a permit and a check of city codes to ensure that you can install one without incident. Although your pool company should know the rules and regulations in your area, it would behoove you to check them yourself. This will allow you to get familiar with the rules and know what to expect along the way.
The last thing that you want is to be ready to install your dream pool and backyard oasis only to find out at the last minute that you don’t have the right permits (or worse, that you live somewhere with strict regulations about pools).
Another consideration here is your home insurance—adding a pool is going to increase your rates. Some companies won’t even cover the pool, or they will have rules about how the pool needs to be secured (such as fences, locked gates, etc.) for them to be insurable.
If you keep these things in mind, getting a new pool can be the highlight of your summer instead of becoming a headache.
