A backyard is a wonderful thing. There are so many things you could do with it! You can keep the grass itself healthy and neatly groomed—something you can be really proud of. You can build a patio with a fire pit … or you could install your very own swimming pool. What’s better than walking out your back door to take a dip on a hot summer day? Building a pool is no small task, though. It’s more of an undertaking, and one you should consider from multiple angles before pulling the trigger on it.
To make sure you avoid making costly mistakes in pursuit of your dream pool, we’re going to go over how to build a pool the smart way, including steps to take before you even break ground.
Understand Your Why
Why do you want a pool? We want you to answer that question for yourself, because it can inform plenty of decisions involved in the process. Whether you’re building a pool for family fun, party hosting, fitness, or an aesthetic upgrade, that “why” will shape the choices you make from here on out.
Want to host parties? You’ll want a larger pool and plenty of room for people to mingle. Looking to improve your backyard’s aesthetic? You’ll likely want to include plenty of visual flair throughout the area. Knowing all these things helps you decide on things around features, pool shape, depth, and more.
Know Your Budget
How much is it to build a pool? Many homeowners make their decisions based on the up-front construction costs without considering costs that go beyond the build, so let’s look at the big picture. In addition to construction and installation, consider:
- Cleaning supplies
- Long-term maintenance
- Increased utility bills as a result of electricity and water needed for the pool
- Pool insurance and liability coverage
- Landscaping in the area around the pool
- Safety features such as fencing and covers
- Pool furniture and other accessories
When you’re financially prepared for the full scope of a pool installation, you’ll make good choices and avoid unwelcome roadblocks in the future.
Check Local Regulations and Permit Requirements
It’s one thing to know how to build a pool. It’s another to understand all the rules around such a project. Before you begin construction, make sure you’ll be adhering to all local safety codes, permit requirements, and zoning laws. These vary depending on municipality, so there isn’t a one-size-fits-all guide. Since we’re based in Frederick county, we’ll use their codes as an example.
Regardless of where you live, things that may be impacted are minimum distances from structures and property lines, fencing/barrier requirements, construction permits, and electrical and plumbing codes.
Choose the Right Type of Pool
There are plenty of different kinds of pools you can get, each offering its own benefits and drawbacks (depending on your preferences). Consider what will work best with your budget and lifestyle. At Aquatic Solutions, we offer custom inground pools, radiant pools, and even PDC spas. They’re all unique and provide different experiences.
- Custom Inground: The best choice for those who want full control over their pool design and its features.
- Radiant: These above-ground pools offer short installation timelines and lower costs compared to traditional in-ground pools.
- PDC Spas: Outdoor hot tubs are a great addition to your backyard area, whether you want a swimming spa or just a place so soak and relax.
Pick a Reputable Contractor
Building a pool isn’t just about choosing the right designs and materials; it’s about choosing the right people to perform the installation. While on your search for the perfect candidate, take the time to:
- Read reviews and check references
- Look at the candidate’s past work
- Confirm the company’s licensing and insurance
- Compare quotes
As a reputable contractor with the licensing and experience to handle your pool installation, we invite you to give us a thorough inspection. You won’t be disappointed!
Consider the Pool Location
If you have a sizable backyard, you have options around where your pool should go. Think about sun exposure, accessibility to and from your house, surrounding landscaping, privacy factors, and even drainage. These will all play a significant role in the comfort of those who use your pool.
- Sun exposure will lead to warmer water.
- Accessibility to the house will make a relaxing time more attainable.
- Overhanging trees might look nice, but also mean more leaves and other debris falling into the water.
- When it comes to privacy, a good blend of openness and seclusion is ideal for most people.
- As for drainage, make sure your property’s water runoff doesn’t lead into your pool.
Think About Features and Design
These days, there are plenty of options for adorning your pool with features that make it truly unique—truly YOU. Popular choices include waterfalls and fountains, LED lighting (great for night swims), heating systems, built-in benches, pool decking, slides, and diving boards. What speaks to you and will let you enjoy the pool to its fullest?
Plan for Safety
No matter what, safety should always be your top priority. This is doubly true if you have kids or pets around. Here’s what you can add to maximize safety:
- To-code fencing
- Pool covers
- Gate, door, and pool entry alarms
- Non-slip surfaces surrounding the pool itself
- Clearly posted depth information, as well as safety rules—such as “No Running!”
Maintenance Requirements
If you want your pool to be clean and safe, you’re going to have to perform maintenance on it. Before you commit to building a pool, there are plenty of maintenance-related things to consider—removing debris, checking chemical levels, cleaning pumps and filters, and opening and closing services (we can help with that).
Timeline Expectations
It would be nice if you could just wake up one morning to find a brand new pool in your backyard, but that’s not the case. The process takes time, and that time depends on the type of pool. Simple installations like radiant pools will only take 6 to 8 weeks, while more complex, custom pools could take anywhere from 10 to 16 weeks. Keep in mind that inclement weather or delays with permit approval could add to those timelines.
Building a Pool With the Professionals
When you know what you’re getting into and have a clear vision in mind, building a pool is an exciting and stressless undertaking. By setting your goals, deciding on a budget, and working with experienced professionals, it will go off without a hitch! Get in touch with us and we can provide the pool you’ve always wanted, right in your backyard.