How to Choose the Right Pool for Your Home

As with any other major home improvement project, the process of building a pool presents numerous different choices. Whether you’re envisioning a small pool with a simple design, a resort-like oasis, or anything in between, it’s important to approach these decisions strategically to ensure that the finished product will suit your needs and style. Here are a few factors to help guide you in choosing the right pool for your home:

• Budget. Financial considerations are often the starting point for any home improvement project. When starting to plan for a backyard pool, set a realistic budget, taking into account not only the upfront construction costs, but also the costs associated with ongoing maintenance. It’s also important to keep in mind that different types of pools carry a different return on investment over time. For instance, inground gunite pools – our specialty at Aqua Pool & Patio – tend to be more expensive to build, but will last much longer and add more value to your property than vinyl or fiberglass pools. Therefore, they will be more cost-effective in the long run.
• Space constraints. Before getting your heart set on a particular pool design, assess the terrain and how much space you have available in your backyard. Be sure to consider the layout of your outdoor space and how a pool will complement existing features like gardens, patios, or outdoor living areas. Another key advantage of gunite pools is that they are fully customizable, and can therefore be built to accommodate small or unusually shaped spaces.
• Shape. Custom gunite pools in particular are available in a wide range of shapes, from classic rectangles to free-form designs. When choosing your preferred shape, one important consideration is your home’s architecture. For example, if your home is contemporary with clean lines, a pool with a geometric shape, possibly with an infinity edge, would be complementary; if your home has an elegant style with classic architecture, a pool with smooth curves and a softer look may work best. Another important consideration that may influence the shape of your pool is your intended usage—a pool designed for entertaining or as a play space for children will require a different shape than one intended for swimming laps.
• Colors and textures. When striving to design a pool that matches your home’s architectural style, other factors that can make a big impact include the color and texture of the pool materials. For instance, light-colored surfaces can help create a clean, vibrant aesthetic, while darker hues will have a more natural, earthy effect.
• Custom features. From key safety features, such as incorporating a shallow end if your family includes children or inexperienced swimmers, to luxurious touches such as water and fire features, tanning ledges, or swim-up seating, there are virtually endless options to consider for customizing your pool and the surrounding area.
• Serviceability. An inground pool is meant to be for many summers, not just “this one”. Over time, every pool will require some sort of service and or repairs. Does your builder offer not only a quality pool construction process but also a quality pool service agreement after the build? Will the plumbing be installed in a manner to service and winterize? Is the tile able to withstand the ice and frost of winter? Does your pol builder discuss expansion between the patio and pool perimeter. And the structure or foundation of the pool (what’s behind the beauty of the garden feature) matters as well. Like any business or relationship, start with a strong foundation and over time it will last.

At Aqua Pool & Patio, our pool design and construction experts are here to help you create a high-quality gunite pool that will reflect your unique vision and deliver satisfaction for years to come. Contact us today to get started!