If you’re thinking of installing a pool at home, you’re probably imagining a slice of vacation in your backyard. And while you can make this dream a reality, you also need to consider the fact that having a pool put in means less glitzy realities. Excavations, building regulations and safety considerations are all part of it too. Here’s more about the practical considerations you need to think about for your home pool project.
You just need to look at the latest stats to see how popular pools are in the United States. The Pool & Hot Tub Alliance says there are over 10.4 million residential swimming pools in the United States. And there are around 68,000 new in-ground pools installed in homes every year, with a further 27,000 pools with spas constructed in people’s homes too. That comes to a massive $4.5 billion that people spend on a new pool every year! And these figures don’t even account for above ground pools and hot tubs. The ten states where new pools are most popular are Arizona, California, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Massachusetts, Maryland, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Texas, Virginia and Washington.
If you’re thinking of jumping on the band-wagon, you’re in good company! But you don’t want to get swept up in the dream before thinking of the practical side of pool installation. Here are the top things you’ll want to consider.
Digging Your Pool: Considerations from the Ground Up
You’re probably ready to get started and start digging, but you’ll find there’s more to consider than just where to place that first shovel in the ground. How deep will you need to go, and what will be good pool dimensions for your space? This totally depends on the type of pool you’re envisaging. Do you want a shallow splash pool for the kids? Or a deeper pool suitable for doing some serious lap swimming too? Beyond the depth, you need to think about what’s beneath the surface. Hitting a utility line could be a very expensive mistake. So get utility maps before you book your work in, and do some sample trenches to be sure of what you’re dealing with.
Space around the pool is another crucial aspect. You’ll need enough room not only for the pool itself but also for a surrounding area. This could be a deck or simply a safety barrier – the pool safety experts: Pool Guard USA, can advise you on this. Think about future additions you might want as well, such as a pool house or a BBQ area. Can your space accommodate this, or is there a better way you could plan this project?
And have you thought about drainage? Proper drainage means the water from both the pool and natural rain doesn’t stagnate or flood your property. If you let this happen, it could damage the pool structure and your garden as a whole. Consult with a professional to evaluate the best drainage system for your specific yard condition. You won’t regret it, as water damage can be another very expensive thing to rectify.
Building Regulations for Your Pool
Before you break ground, you’ll need to ensure your pool meets local building regulations. Didn’t know pools had to follow building regulations? You’re not alone? A lot of people think that because it’s something you do in your private yard, it doesn’t have a wider impact on your locality. Actually, there are regulations, and they’re a set of standards created by local or state governments to ensure safety, sustainability, and compliance with zoning laws. You’ll find they can include anything from the required fencing or barriers around your pool to specific construction materials, depth limitations, and even the type of backfill that can be used.
It’s totally normal that these regulations can vary from one state to another, as many other things do. For instance, in California, you might find stricter energy efficiency requirements for pool pumps, while in Florida, the focus might be more on storm-resistant construction standards to withstand hurricanes. The key here is to remember that these rules are not there to dampen your dream but to protect you, your family, and your investment.
Before you get too far into your pool planning, make a pit stop at your local municipal office or check their website. Often, they’ll have a detailed list of what’s required or, at the very least, point you in the direction of a helpful representative. Ignoring this step can not only lead to costly redo’s but also legal headaches you definitely don’t want.
Prioritizing Safety in Your Pool Area: A Must for Every Home
When it comes to installing a pool in your backyard, thinking about safety is as crucial as selecting the right pool design. It’s not just about making your pool area look good; it’s about ensuring it’s a safe haven for everyone who uses it, especially if children are around.
First off, consider the fencing. It’s not merely a boundary marker; it’s a critical safety feature. A properly installed fence with a self-closing, self-latching gate can be the difference between peace of mind and a heart-stopping moment. Next, think about pool alarms. They aren’t just gadgets; they are your ears when you can’t be around the pool, alerting you the moment someone enters the water unexpectedly.
And don’t forget the pool cover. A robust cover doesn’t just keep your pool clean; it acts as a barrier for unsupervised access, giving you an additional layer of security. Lastly, a clear set of pool rules can help avoid unnecessary risks — no running, no diving in the shallow end, and always swim with a buddy.
Stepping into the world of pool ownership isn’t just about adding a luxurious feature to your home; it’s about creating a haven for joy, relaxation, and family time. Yet, it demands a blend of dreams and practicality. From understanding the gritty details of excavation to navigating the maze of building regulations, and prioritizing the safety of your loved ones, every step you take brings you closer to making your dream pool a reality.