Anyone would love to have a pool in their home, and who wouldn’t? Not only can it add value to your property, but swimming is a fun and relaxing activity for the entire family to enjoy during the hot, summer months.
While some homeowners see swimming pools as a luxury, others find it a necessity. On the other hand, some believe that there are factors to consider before shopping around, such as safety risks and maintenance.
If you’re planning to build or buy a swimming pool for your home, choosing the perfect one can be quite overwhelming. Aside from deciding among the beautiful designs available, you also need to think about the right size, shape, and features suitable for your outdoor space. You also want to ensure that the rest of the family is ready for the responsibility of owning a pool. So, It is vital to understand the pros and cons first before diving in because it’s not all fun and games.
Fortunately, you’ll find all the information you need here. We’ve prepared a simple guide to help you find the best swimming pool for you and your backyard. And to help you decide if you’re ready to become a pool owner, we’ve also listed its perks and drawbacks.
How To Find The Perfect Pool Design For Your Outdoor Space
1. Make a wish list
If you’ve been planning and dreaming about your pool for many years, you probably have a pool design in mind already. However, it’s a good idea to read about the latest trends and technology in pool design. Do some research and gather ideas for your dream design. Once you know your requirements, you can speak to your local pool builder about it. He’ll be able to turn your dream into reality and help you determine how you want to use your pool. He can also provide you with style and design ideas, as well as materials and blueprints.
2. Create a lookbook
Translating your design concept into words is often tough. Your pool designer and builder will appreciate it if you’ll present them with magazine photos or pictures of swimming pools from your vacation. They’ll also have a clear picture of what you want and will be able to incorporate your personal style into the design of your swimming pool. It will also help ensure that you’re both on the same page.
3. Where do you want to put your pool?
Your swimming pool is not only a place for the family to cool off, but it’s also a massive part of your home’s aesthetics. Think about your swimming pool more like your landscape’s water feature. So, make sure to consider how it’ll look in your overall landscape. The ideal place for it is usually in the sunniest place of your backyard. It should always look good-looking even when you’re not using it, especially if it’s highly visible from your home.
4. Pool size
To determine the right pool size for your property, consider the following questions:
- How much outdoor space do you have?
- How many individuals will your swimming pool accommodate?
- Do you plan to have pool parties often with plenty of guests?
- How do you plan to use your pool?
Pool size will vary depending on your region, but the average size is around 15 by 30 feet. On the other hand, the smallest swimming pool is about 10 by 20 feet, while the largest is usually approximately 40 feet long.
5. What’s the best pool shape for my space?
Design experts recommend not to go overboard or too fancy with the shape of your pool. It will be pretty difficult to incorporate your pool with a freeform shape in your landscape.
Rectangular pools work well with almost all kinds of architecture. It’s also great at accommodating pool covers, not to mention the perfect shape to do your swimming laps. But if you want a pool that doubles as a spa, opt for a square or round shape.
6. Know the different types of swimming pool
Just like with your property or car, your pool is also an investment. So, don’t just get or build the first thing you see. You have to put some thought in its design.
Your swimming pool can be made of fiberglass, vinyl, and concrete. Concrete and vinyl swimming pools being the more flexible type in terms of design perspective since you can customize them. And although fiberglass pools may not be customizable, they are durable, beautiful and low maintenance. You also have to consider coping, filtration and cleaning systems, as well as special features, and finishing touches.
7. Safety
Aside from fencing requirements from local codes, consider additional safety measures when planning the design of your pool. You can equip it with alarms to notify you when something or someone enters its water. There are also child-proof lock systems you can install on your gates and window security alarms. Also, ensure that it’s free of any harmful bacteria and safe for swimming by learning these valuable cleaning hacks for your home.
Benefits Of Owning A Pool
1. Hours of endless fun for the whole family
Pools are an excellent way to bond with your family while having fun and doing entertaining activities. You can swim, splash around, do some pool games, and other physical activities. Additionally, if you want to relax, simply lounge by the poolside or float on your favorite inflatable while sunbathing while the kids swim nearby.
2. Adds value to your property
Swimming pools are an excellent addition to any home. It’s a smart investment, especially if you place it in the perfect location with just the right amount of landscaping and design. It can even serve as the deciding factor that may encourage a potential buyer to seal the deal when you’re home is on the market.
3. It can help you stay or get in shape
Gym memberships are expensive, and having a pool is a great alternative to stay in shape. You can live a healthy lifestyle while enjoying a cool dip during the hot season. You won’t have any excuse as well since it’s just a few steps away.
4. Great for entertaining
Backyard BBQs and cookout will be even more enjoyable with a pool in place to entertain your guests further. Also, you can have pool parties to celebrate anniversaries, birthdays, holidays, and so much more. Decorate your poolside with tiki torches and the pool water with floating candles, and you have the perfect place to celebrate any special occasion.
Cons Of Having A Pool
1. High maintenance
Your pool will need regular monitoring and maintenance. You need to ensure it has the appropriate levels of chemicals, keep the filter system clean, keep the pool water free of dirt and debris, and so on. You can hire a pool cleaner to do the daunting task for you, but it’ll cost you a fortune. Fortunately, various types of pool sweepers that can cut down on cleaning time while ensuring your pool is clean and safe for everyone.
2. Running costs
Swimming pools are an investment, but running them is also costly, as well as its maintenance. A heated pool can also add to your monthly electric bills. Plus, topping it up with water is additional costs to your water bills. Furthermore, not keeping its filter system clean can also affect its performance and your bills. So make sure to perform regular maintenance to prevent a little issue from blowing up and costing you more in repairs down the road.
3. Additional dangers
A pool can be a risk hazard if you have kids that don’t know how to swim. For this reason, there are numerous red tapes and several council safety regulations involved in owning a swimming pool. It is your responsibility as a pool owner to keep your pool area safe for everyone. There should always be sufficient supervision when children are swimming or playing around your pool. You also need to make sure you have proper fencing, and your gates are child-proof, if not, you may face costly fines.
