A swimming pool is a big and exciting home addition, and it pays to be organised before the build to ensure your pool is exactly how you want it as changing things after the fact can be difficult and costly. We’ve put together 10 of the best tips to consider to ensure your new pool is everything you’ve ever wanted and more.
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Establish your budget
Before jumping in the deep end and going pool shopping, you should work out how much you can afford to spend first. Once you have determined your budget, you can then choose from the pools in your price range. Many things can add to the cost of a pool, and when a company lists the price, it’s usually for the pool only unless stated otherwise. When looking around, ask the builder how much it is for everything you need and ensure the quote they give you is all-inclusive.
Determine the best spot for your new pool
If you have a small backyard, you may not have much flexibility when it comes to the placement of your pool. Do you know The Most Common FAQs About Small Pools? If you’re lucky enough to have a bit of space to work with, it’s important to consider the best location not only from an aesthetic point of view but also to ensure it is highly functional too. Some things to think about:
Is the proposed location of the pool in full shade or sun? If yes, this will affect the temperature of the pool. In the summer, if there is no shade, the water may become too hot from the sun bearing down on it all day that it doesn’t provide any relief. If it is surrounded by trees or shade, the pool won’t get as warm, meaning you will have to spend more money on heating if you have it and time scooping out leaves that will continuously fall into the pool. It’s worthwhile investigating all of the possible places your pool can go. Sometimes a spot that requires more excavation or is difficult to get in, can be better long-term in terms of cleaning and heating. Your builder will be able to offer helpful advice on this, and you as the pool owner will need to weigh up the pros and cons of each possible location choice.
Decide what your pool will be used for
The right pool is one that you will use often, and having an understanding of what you will use your pool for the most and who will use it can help you narrow down your choices. Nowadays, there are pool options to suit every lifestyle and swimming need.
Factor in ongoing costs
All pools require regular maintenance, some more than others and when you’re deciding on a swimming pool type, you should know the costs involved with their long-term upkeep to avoid any surprises down the track. Ideally, you want a pool that uses the least energy, chemicals and requires the least maintenance.
Research the different pool types
Following on from the tip above, there are three main types of permanent swimming pools, concrete, vinyl liner and fibreglass. Here is a basic rundown of what you can expect with long-term maintenance of each type:
Vinyl liner pools – Vinyl liner pools are usually the cheapest, however, the inner liner is prone to damage which can be expensive to replace with a new liner starting at around $4,000.
Concrete pools – Concrete pools are made onsite so, you can have any depth and design you like but, they are highly porous which makes them more susceptible to algae outbreaks, not only that, they need to be resurfaced every 10 to 15 years and this is around $10,000.
Fibreglass pools – Fibreglass pools are slightly more expensive than vinyl liner pools, although they never need their interior replaced or resurfaced, ever! As the surface is smooth and nonporous, it is highly resistant to algae as it has nowhere to attach itself.
Factor in additional extras
Things such as fencing and accessories usually cost more. You will need to allow additional funds for these essential items. It’s best to ask about all the extra features available to you and decide which ones you want as adding them later can be expensive. If you were considering a self-cleaning pool, this must be built-in at the same time as the pool, it can’t be added down the track.
Install your pool in winter
You’re probably not going to use your pool a whole lot in winter and this is why people wait until the warmer months to purchase their pool. By installing your pool in the wintertime, you can avoid the peak season rush. Pool companies aren’t as busy and many offer discounts or extra incentives during this period.
Check what kind of warranties the company offers
It is vitally important you check what kind of warranties the company offers on their pools before signing your contract, otherwise, if something happens to your pool down the track and you are not covered, you are going to be out of pocket for the repairs.
Work out what kind of look you want
Rather than considering how you want your pool to look, you should think of how you want your entire backyard to look. This can help you create a cohesive space that ties in with the rest of your home. For instance, if your backyard is contemporary in design, a geometric pool with clean straight lines may suit the space best, or if you’ve got a tropical theme, a pool with softer edges may be more appropriate.
Hire a qualified builder
If you want your pool to be installed properly and last, you need to hire an experienced pool builder who is licenced and insured. Look at their work and customer feedback for unbiased reviews. Using someone who is not qualified is a huge financial risk and one that should be avoided.
Like anything worth investing money in, it pays to do a bit of research first to ensure you are making the best choice for your family and home. Our team here at The Fibreglass Pool Company are fibreglass pool industry leaders and would be happy to explain anything else you would like to know before diving into pool ownership. Get in touch today.