Negosentro.com | Thinking of Buying a Pool? Here’s What You Need to Know | There are few things that can create great summer memories for family and friends like a backyard pool. Swimming, relaxing, enjoying snacks and drinks…what could be better? The answer is, not having to leave your home and go to someone else’s house! If you’re considering adding a pool to your home, here are a few key considerations to evaluate.
Understand the Pros and Cons of In-Ground vs. Above Ground
Of course, money is a huge factor in deciding whether to get a pool. As you start to look at swimming pool financing options, it can be very helpful to narrow down what kind of pool you want to get. If you have the space, you may opt for an inground pool. These are in some ways easier to clean and heat, but they require more digging and foundation work, and therefore cost more.
Above ground pools come in many shapes, sizes, and types. Smaller, “pop-up” style ones may only cost a few hundred dollars, but they are not incredibly durable or long-lasting. Weather can also wreak havoc on them. A more conventional, permanent above-ground pool with a circumference of 24 or 25 feet, is more expensive, but much stronger, and can fit over ten people in it comfortably. It can also usually be built up to a deck, or have a deck built up around it.
Educate Yourself on Maintenance
While it’s not hard to keep a pool in good working order, it is very important. Many people don’t realize that safe, clean water relies on a correct chemical balance, not just throwing in a chlorine tablet every now and then.
Don’t let the idea of balancing chemicals frighten you, though. While it’s easy to learn how to open and close a pool for the season, you can buy a service contract from a pool retailer in most places. They can send technicians to set you up in the spring and come by weekly to clean the pool and check the chemicals. On the other hand, if you learn how your pool’s filter operates, you can probably handle cleaning and backwashing by yourself. If you get off to a good start at the beginning of the season, adding some clarifier, shock, and chlorine weekly should keep you in good shape.
Also be aware of semi-regular maintenance that will need to be done to your pool over its lifetime. For example, above ground pools will need a new liner every 10-15 years, but it may be sooner if it develops a tear or crack. You will also likely need a new filter basket or pump in about the same amount of time. In-ground pools usually require less, but a concrete issue must be addressed quickly if it arises.
Objectively Evaluate Your Location
Before you really dig into this, however, you need to take a long, honest look at your space and decide if a pool will work at all. The answer is usually yes, but there are many factors to consider. First off, if you live in an area with a Homeowners Association, you will need to make sure you’re following the established rules and asking for the appropriate permissions. The last thing you want is to start construction and be told you can’t finish (and be left holding a bill!)
You also need to be realistic and considerate with your space. If you have a tiny backyard with neighbors stacked around, you’ll need to look for a filter that won’t be noisy, and plan on using your pool only in respectful hours. Or you may opt for a more portable, temporary sort of pool.
With a little planning, building and enjoying a pool could be one of the best decisions your family ever makes! Be sure to work with professionals and get as much information as you can to make an informed decision about what will be best for your space, budget, and neighborhood.
