Are you ready to take the plunge?
A pool is a large financial investment and it’s a decision that should not be taken lightly.
If you are considering installing a pool this spring, you may want to ask yourself the following questions:
Is my yard suitable for a pool?
Some yards may not be large enough for pools, while others may not meet the zoning requirements. Still other yards may have soil that’s not suitable for putting in an inground pool, or may have a high water table that can delay construction.
How will we use the pool?
Decide if you’re putting in a pool for the kids, to entertain the family, or to make an architectural statement in the yard. Having a clear sense of purpose will help to guide the decision-making process.
Who will maintain the pool?
Many pool owners tackle the day-to-day maintenance required to keep them clean and safe. Others hire pool cleaners to maintain their pools and ensure the water is properly balanced. Maintenance can cost additional money, so consider this when determining if a pool is for you.
Are there any safety concerns?
Parents of young children may be hesitant to install a pool, but today’s codes consider many of the potential hazards. Fences surrounding inground pools with self-locking gates, as well as locking ladders for above-ground pools can eliminate accidental falls into unattended pools.
Understand the process
If the decision has been made to move ahead with a pool, it can be helpful to understand a few facts about the process of installing a pool. Always work with a pool-installation company that has earned positive reviews and has a stellar record of service. While this does not guarantee that the job will not encounter problems, contractors with glowing reviews tend to have earned those reviews.
Read reviews from unbiased, online customers as well as any friends or family members who have used a particular pool company. It’s important that homeowners recognize that the installation of a pool may require some heavy machinery, which can damage lawns.
Fence panels may have to be removed to let in excavation equipment. Sand, soil backfill or gravel may be needed to level out a landscape, and things may get noisy and messy when the installation hits full swing. Always secure the proper permits and inspections prior to using the pool. This not only ensures the safety of swimmers, but also guarantees the pool is legal.
Backyard swimming pools make for an enjoyable place to congregate when the weather is hot.
Follow a few guidelines and ask the necessary questions to make a pool installation go more smoothly.