5 Tips for Building the Pool of Your Dreams

Creating the pool of your dreams can be incredibly exciting. However, many decisions go into the planning process, making it overwhelming. Be sure to cover all your bases to eliminate any annoyance that might creep up later; creating a list of necessities ahead of time will help smoothly complete the process. To assist you in adequately preparing your pool, look into these five tips.

1. Getting Funding for Your Pool

Having a swimming pool in your backyard is a goal for many homeowners. Relaxing in your private oasis makes every day a vacation. Be that as it may, acquiring a pool will not come cheap. Should you come upon any financial hurdles, there are many options available. Look into ways you can finance a pool for any questions you may have. Once the money becomes available, you can start the planning process for your new pool.

2. Deciding what Type of Pool You Need

With the amount of money that goes into a pool, you want it to last. An in-ground pool usually requires more upkeep, but they tend to be more durable. With proper maintenance, an in-ground pool has an average lifespan of about 25 years. Pools are naturally going to get exposed to the elements, but an inground pool is better equipped to withstand whatever the weather brings.

If you are looking for a more affordable, kid-friendly option, an above-ground pool is better. The walls are tall enough that your child will have a more challenging time accessing them, making accidents less likely. Another added safety feature is the ability to remove the ladder or lock it when it is not in use.

On average, the cost of an in-ground pool is around $40,000, whereas the average price of an above-ground pool is approximately $3,000, making the above-ground a much more feasible choice for a tight budget. In addition, an above-ground pool comes pre-prepared and requires less labor. You can skip having a hole in the backyard for weeks and get into your pool faster.

3. Choosing the Size and Shape of Your Pool

You need to know how much space is available before deciding on the size of your pool. Start by mapping out and measuring the exact location of where you want the pool to be. For instance, the amount of space you need will depend on the size of the pool you get. For example, if you worry about not having enough room, consider clearing out a spot to create more space.

Choosing the shape of your pool is an important aspect that you might not have considered. For instance, you can pick from the typical forms or even have one custom-made. Here is a list of shapes to help with your decision.

• Rectangle pools have clean lines, with the corner cut at a 90-degree angle. 
• Kidney pools are rounded on both ends and curve in on one side.
• L-shaped pools are two smaller rectangles joining at a right angle.
• Freeform pools have an irregular shape with flowing lines.
• Grecian pools have the standard rectangular shape but are curved at both ends.
• Custom pools will fit whatever design you desire.

No pool shape is better than another. It all depends on your preference. So, whatever shape you choose, your pool is sure to be your backyard's focal point.

4. Selecting Water Features

Now is your time to get creative and pick out unique aspects for your pool. Whether your goal is to create extra movement or added sound, water features create a luxury that emulates any resort. 

Adding a water slide into your pool design will increase your fun during the summer months. There are a few choices based on how adventurous you want to be. For example, you can choose from prefabricated, landscape and free-standing. A prefabricated slide can be quickly assembled and mounted on a pool deck, whereas a landscape slide fits into the actual terrain. A free-standing slide is adjustable to accommodate the depth of any pool. 

A cascading waterfall is a beautiful addition to any pool. These waterfalls have a steady flow that sharply falls off natural rocks and into the pool. This makes your pool more majestic, and it also helps filter the water, quickly spreads pool chemicals and helps lower the temperature of the water.

5. Deciding Who Will Install Your Pool

Keep in mind that swimming pools are not only for soaking up the summer sun; they are also an investment. You would not buy a car or house without asking all the necessary questions, so do your research when choosing who will install your pool. Here is a list of questions you need to be prepared to ask:

• How long has the company been in business? First, you want to find a company that has a long-standing quality reputation.
• Do they have a contractor's license? Not all states will require contractors to have a permit, so make a wise decision and choose the licensed contractor.
• Can they show references? Look for a builder that offers you references for their work. It is often a red flag if they can not or will not give you this information.
• Does their work come with a warranty? Finding out if they offer a warranty will show confidence in their work. Also, be sure to find out what the warranty covers.
• Do they have insurance? Since accidents can happen, finding out if your builder has insurance, should something go wrong, is something you should plan for.

You can make the list as extensive as possible, but these few questions are just some of the basics that need answering. Your overall goal is to be confident in the contractor you choose. 

Using this information, you can confidently decide the best fit for your family. Installing a pool is not a small task, so be mindful of your wants and needs when choosing a design. Choose the right financing that will help you stick to your budget, and make sure the contractors are equipped for the job.