Adding a pool is often a great way to add value to your home. It gives you a fun place to relax and cool off on a hot day, as well as a place to entertain loved ones and family friends. Before you start dreaming of the perfect design, you need to make sure that you know everything about installing a pool. Make sure to familiarise yourself with the many considerations and steps in involved in the process of building a pool.
Know the Local Regulations and Laws
Checking the local regulations and laws is one of the first things that you should do. As the laws vary across the country, you can check with your local council to see what is required of your pool. You will also want to check to see whether you can only put a pool in certain spots and if you need a fence.
Find a Good Location
Do not hire an installer until you choose the right location. The best location often depends on the size of your yard. You’ll want to consider the trees and other plants in your yard, too. The closer the pool is to large trees, the more you will need to clean it and remove leaves. Many people choose spots in their yards with a lot of natural sunlight. That light can heat the water and keep it at a good temperature without requiring a pool heater.
Choose a Style
You might not realize how many types and styles of pools there are until you decide to build one. One of the biggest decisions that you need to make is between an above-ground and in-ground pool. An in-ground pool takes longer to build but allows you to go both bigger and deeper. An above-ground pool often costs less time and money to build but will limit how much space you can use and how many people can hop in the water. In-ground pools also feature different types of liners. A fiberglass liner is a popular option because it is easy to maintain. The fiberglass won’t suffer damage caused by your pool chemicals and has a smooth and durable finish. Vinyl liners are less expensive and cost less to install. You can also choose a custom vinyl liner that matches the design of your pool. While concrete liners are the most expensive, some pool owners like that the material requires little maintenance.
Cost of Installation
Many homeowners want to know the average cost of installing a pool. While the cost that you pay depends on many factors, the average cost of a pool ranges from $10,000 to $100,000 in Australia, according to Oneflare. If you choose an above-ground pool, you might find that you spend between $6,500 and $10,000 on it. Other types, such as infinity or lap pools, can cost more to build.
How Long It Takes
The time that it takes to build a swimming pool depends on several factors. If you choose an above-ground pool, you’ll find that the process takes less time. You just need to create a flat spot in your yard and temper the ground with the right tools. It’s then a simple matter of putting up the sides of the pool and adding the liner before pouring in water. It takes more time to install in-ground pools because it can take up to six weeks to secure your permits. Workers will spend up to a week excavating your yard to make room for the pool and another few days to complete the electrical work. You might spend up to 10 weeks or around two months after hiring contractors before you can get in the water.
Routine Maintenance
As you look at the costs of building a pool, make sure that you look at swimming pool maintenance costs, too. You need the right equipment to test the water and make sure that it’s safe for swimming. Most pools require several types of chemicals to clean the water and remove bacteria. You can use a skimmer to remove branches, bugs and other trash from the water or hire someone to do the job for you, which will increase your maintenance costs. Pool owners are also responsible for any repairs that their pools need, such as replacing a broken filter or heater.
When you think of building a pool, you probably dream of floating around on a hot day or splashing with your kids. While you can have tons of fun with your family and friends, you need to know the basics of installing a pool, including the maintenance that you need and any local regulations you must meet.
