What to Consider When Planning a Pool
A backyard swimming pool can be the ultimate upgrade for your outdoor space, offering an endless source of relaxation, entertainment, wellness, and a way to cool down on warm summer days. However, careful planning before you embark on the pool building process will help ensure that your new addition fits your property, budget, and lifestyle. Here are some key factors to consider when planning a pool:
Purpose and Usage
First, think about how you’ll use your pool. Are you looking for a family-friendly design with a shallow area for kids? A lap pool for exercise? A stylish centerpiece for entertaining? Defining your goals will help guide your decisions on size, shape, and features.
Pool Type and Design
When you choose a gunite pool—our specialty at Aqua Pool & Patio—one of the main advantages is the ability to customize your pool to suit nearly any shape or size. Whether you’d prefer a compact plunge pool (ideal for smaller spaces or simple relaxation), a sleek infinity pool, or a large, freeform resort-style pool, your vision can be brought to life with gunite.
Budget and Ongoing Costs
Your budget should include not only pool construction, but also long-term maintenance. Costs will vary depending on materials, size, and additional features, such as attached spas, waterfalls, lighting, or heating. Another advantage of gunite pools is that while they may be more expensive to build upfront, they tend to be the most cost-effective option over time due to their long-lasting durability—when properly constructed and maintained, a gunite pool should last for a century or longer without the need for major repairs!
Local Regulations and Permits
Before breaking ground on your new pool, it’s important to check local zoning laws and building codes. Most municipalities require permits and may have rules on setbacks, fencing, or pool barriers for safety. At Aqua Pool & Patio, our team is familiar with local regulations within our service areas, and we’re experienced at pulling the permits, completing the paperwork, and working with town officials to ensure a smooth construction process.
Location and Layout
When deciding where to place the pool on your property, consider factors such as sun exposure, wind patterns, and privacy. A sunnier location will help keep the water warm, while nearby trees may drop leaves and debris into the pool. Additionally, think about how your pool will integrate with the surrounding landscaping and your outdoor living areas.
Pool Safety Features
When it comes to pools and spas, safety should always be a top priority—particularly if there are children or pets in your home. Options for enhancing pool safety include:
- Fencing and gates to prevent unsupervised access
- Pool covers for protection when the pool is not in use
- Alarms and motion detectors for added security
- Slip-resistant surfaces around the pool area
Maintenance and Upkeep
Pools require regular maintenance to keep them clean and safe for swimming. As you prepare for your new pool, think about whether you’ll want to manage the upkeep on your own, or entrust it to professionals like the team at Aqua Pool & Patio. Critical pool maintenance tasks (all of which we can handle) include:
- Frequent cleaning
- Water testing and chemical addition
- Filtration system cleaning and testing
- Pool opening in the spring and closing in the fall
Additional Features and Enhancements
When building an inground gunite pool, the options for customization are virtually endless. From built-in seating and swim-up bars to attached spas to eye-catching features like waterfalls or fire bowls, your pool can serve as a statement piece that reflects your unique style and enhances your enjoyment of your property for years to come.
Whether you’re ready to begin construction or you’re still in the initial phases of planning your dream pool, the experts at Aqua Pool & Patio are here to guide you through the process. Contact us today to get started!
