A pool is a great addition to any home. It provides a place to relax, cool off, and entertain guests. But before you take the plunge and start construction, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. This guide will cover what you need to know about building a pool at home, from the initial planning stages to the finishing touches. You’ll be ready to take on this project confidently when you’re done reading!
A Place to Build the Pool
The first thing you need to do is decide where you want to build your pool. You’ll need to factor in the size of your yard, the amount of sun exposure, and any existing landscape features you want to incorporate into the design.
If you’re planning to install a pool, there are many things to factor in before making any decisions. Where you position the pool is subject to your preferences and city and county regulations. Some areas only allow pools if they’re a certain distance away from both structures on your property and the bordering property line — typically 15-25 feet. You should also consider how rainfall will affect drainage around where you want the pool located.
The type of pool you want will also play a role in deciding its location. In-ground pools can be built into a hillside or on level ground, while above-ground pools are less expensive and require less installation. However, they may not last as long as in-ground pools. Having your heart set on a particular type of pool will help narrow your search for the perfect spot.
Once you have a general idea of where you want to build, it’s time to start gathering quotes from contractors. Be sure to get at least three different estimates to compare prices and services.
Designing Your Pool
Now it’s time to start thinking about the design of your pool. Do you want a traditional rectangular shape or something more unique? What kind of decking do you want around the perimeter? What kind of finishes do you want? There are endless possibilities when designing your pool, so take your time and think about what you want.
The pool’s shape won’t just be for show — it will also serve a purpose. Curved shapes, for instance, can create a lagoon-like atmosphere, while geometric pools give off more of a modern vibe. If you have a large backyard, you might want to go with an oval or kidney-shaped pool.
You can also customize the pool shape depending on your purpose and needs:
Oval: Ideal for swimming laps or recreational use
Kidney: This swimming pool has both deep and shallow areas, making it perfect for everyone from young children to adults.
Rectangle: The perfect choice for swimming laps or if you have a narrow yard.
Round: Great for socializing and recreation, plus it’s cost-effective
L-shaped: The pool offers two areas: one for lap swim and the other for kids’ swimming.
Getting the Right Materials
The material you choose for the decking around your pool is also important. There are many options available, from concrete to pavers to wood. Consider both the look you want to achieve and the maintenance that will be required. For example, wooden decking will need to be sealed and cleaned regularly, while concrete can be left as is.
Beyond mere aesthetics, there are important practical considerations to take into account when choosing your deck material:
- Safety: it shouldn’t become slippery when wet.
- Texture: it shouldn’t be coarse, bumpy, or uneven. If you plan on going barefoot often, choose a heat-reflective material!
- Aesthetics: pick something that will look good with the other hardscaped areas in your yard
If possible, make sure the material is resistant to unwanted things like algae growth, chemicals, and mold.
If you decide on concrete, there are a few different types to choose from:
Stamped concrete: this is concrete that has been textured or stamped to resemble other materials like stone, brick, or pavers. It’s a popular choice because it’s less expensive than those materials and can be customized to match any design.
Stained concrete: this is concrete stained with a color of your choice. It’s great to add personality to your pool deck without breaking the bank.
Painted concrete: if you want a unique look, you can paint your concrete deck. This is a great option if you have kids because you can easily add fun designs or colors.
Building Your Pool
Now that you’ve designed your pool and chosen the perfect spot for it, it’s time to start building! This is where working with a reputable contractor comes in handy. They will be able to get the job done quickly and efficiently, and they’ll also be able to help you troubleshoot any problems that come up along the way.
Once the pool is built, it’s time to add the finishing touches. This includes adding decking, installing a fence, and adding any other features you want (like a waterfall or slide).
Installing a Pool Fence
Now that your pool is built, it’s time to install a fence. This is an important safety measure, especially if you have young children or pets. There are different pool fences to choose from, so you’ll need to decide what material you want and what style will best complement your home.
Aluminum is a popular choice for pool fences because it’s durable and low maintenance. Also, you don’t have to worry about it rusting or rotting like you would with other materials. Plus, it’s a great way to keep your pool area clean and sleek. One of the advantages of this aluminum fence is you can install it by yourself to save costs.
Many people choose to install a DIY aluminum pool fence to save money that would otherwise be spent on professional installation. You can complete the project at your own pace with your chosen equipment, and even involve family members so everyone feels invested in the outcome. Suppose you’re working within a tight budget. In that case, DIY-ing your pool fence is one of the best options available—the extra money saved can be allocated towards other improvements or purchases, like decking materials, toys for the pool, or patio furniture.
Other pool fences that you can install are made of mesh or glass. These are both great options if you’re looking for something that will provide a clear view of the pool and won’t obstruct your yard’s aesthetic. Glass is also a great choice if you live in an area with high winds, as it won’t blow over as a mesh fence might.
Installing Your Pool
Once you have all the materials, it’s time to start installing your pool. If you’re doing it yourself, follow the instructions carefully. It’s also a good idea to have someone on hand to help you, especially if you’re working with a larger pool.
If you’re hiring a contractor to install your pool, they will take care of everything for you. All you need to do is sit back and relax while they do all the work!
Once the pool is installed, it’s time to add water. This is where things can get a little tricky. Ensure you follow the instructions carefully, so you don’t overfill or underfill the pool. It’s also important to test the water’s pH levels before adding too much.
The ideal pH level for swimming pools is between 7 and 7.6. If the pH level exceeds 8, swimmers risk developing skin rashes. A pH level that’s lower than seven can sting swimmers’ eyes. You can use a pool test kit or strips to check the pH level.
After the pool is filled with water, it’s time to add chemicals. These are essential for keeping the water clean and preventing the growth of bacteria. The type and amount of chemicals you’ll need will depend on the size of your pool and the number of swimmers. It’s important to follow the instructions on the packaging carefully so you don’t add too much or too little.
Time to Enjoy Your Dream Pool
After the pool is filled, it’s time to enjoy! Add some lounge chairs and a few floaties, and invite your friends and family for a swim. Building your pool is a big project, but it’s ultimately worth it. You’ll have years of the water being considered “hard” and can damage the pool’s surface.
