Dreaming of summer days spent lounging by your own private pool? The thought of an inground pool is exciting, but there’s a lot to know before breaking ground. To make planning a little easier, we’ve put together a guide to five essential things every homeowner should understand about pool building.
1. Budget and Long-Term Costs of Pool Building
Your pool building budget spreadsheet has to involve more than just the construction price tag. There are also design fees, excavation costs, and equipment prices, plus an extra budget for your finishes.
It’s also smart to leave a little wiggle room for the unexpected. Sometimes, once the digging starts, soil conditions or utility lines can require adjustments. Being financially prepared for these variables keeps the project moving forward without stress.
Financing Options
Don’t let the initial cost scare you away from your dream backyard. Many pool building companies partner with lenders to offer loans or flexible payment plans.
Ongoing Maintenance and Utilities
Owning a pool is a long-term commitment. You’ll need to budget for chemicals to keep the water balanced and safe. Factor in the costs for regular filter changes and the energy required to run pumps and heaters efficiently.
2. Choosing the Right Pool Style and Features
Your pool should reflect your lifestyle and aesthetic preferences. Are you looking for a sleek lap pool for exercise or a freeform lagoon for relaxation? The materials you choose play a huge role in longevity and the overall look. The most popular options include:
- Concrete (Gunite): Highly durable and fully customizable to any shape or depth
- Fiberglass: Quick installation and smooth surface, though shapes are limited to factory molds
- Vinyl Liner: Cost-effective initially, but the liners will need replacement over time
Let’s not forget those fun add-ons:
- Waterfalls: Create a beautiful backdrop with cascading water
- Sunshelf: Perfect for lounging and catching some rays while still being in the shallow end
- Spa: Relax and unwind with heated jets in a separate section of your pool
- Lighting: Set the mood with LED lights that can change colors
- Slides/Diving Boards: Add some fun!
3. Location, Site Prep & Permitting
Where your pool goes is just as important as what it looks like. Sun exposure is important if you want to keep the water warm naturally, property lines might limit the size options, and landscaping can impact privacy and debris maintenance.
What lies beneath the grass matters, too. Soil type, grading, and slope can significantly affect construction methods and costs. Luckily, a professional designer can assess the site during the initial consultation to make sure the ground is ready for excavation.
And don’t forget that before the pool building process, paperwork is required. You must navigate local building permits and HOA rules to ensure your project is within regulations.
4. Timeline and Seasonal Planning
Construction rarely goes according to plan. Rain, cold weather, and busy installation seasons can all impact how quickly your project moves. Plus, unforeseen issues can arise during pool building that require additional time and attention.
To better prepare for potential delays, it’s important to work with your designer and contractor to create a realistic timeline and plan for the different seasons. To get you started, here’s a simple construction timeline of the basics:
- Excavation: Digging the hole and grading the site
- Rebar & Plumbing: Installing the steel framework and pipes
- Gunite: Spraying the concrete shell and letting it cure
- Masonry: Installing tile, coping, and water features
- Decking: Laying the patio area surrounding the pool
- Plaster & Fill: Applying the final finish and adding water
5. Maintenance, Safety & Warranty Considerations
A sparkling pool requires routine care to stay enjoyable. You need a plan for cleaning, checking the water balance, and inspecting the equipment. Many homeowners opt for professional service to keep their warranty valid and the water crystal clear. This includes adding and maintaining any safety features, such as:
- Self-latching fencing gates
- Automatic safety covers
- Pool alarms
- Slip-resistant decking materials
Create a Beautiful Pool With Outdoor Living Pool & Patio
Pool building is an investment in your home, your health, and your happiness. By understanding these five factors, you’re ready to dive into the process with confidence—and Outdoor Living Pool & Patio is ready to dive in with you!
We specialize in creating beautiful, custom pools that will transform your backyard into a personal oasis. Start the conversation with our designers today!
