Swimming pools are a great addition to any home. They can be a source of fun, exercise, and even improved home value. Unfortunately, the entire cost implications may not be immediately evident. If you’re thinking of building a home pool, here are nine things to consider first.
Table of Contents
You may not be able to keep your kids out.
Owning a pool unlocks a new level of play for your kids. You can expect them to make the most of it by spending as much time as possible in the pool. Water games and poolside activities may well become a weekly routine for your family.
Adults will also enjoy the experience by hosting parties and entertaining guests. For the first time, you won’t have to fight for space at local parks or share the pool with strangers.
It’s a good idea to get some insurance.
The addition of a pool may change your home insurance policy. You should speak to your provider and determine if you’ll need to add policies to your existing plan, like an umbrella liability policy, for example. On the other hand, your policy may already cover the pool.
On the subject of protection, it’s also a good idea to install a fence around your pool, so your small children don’t wander in. Keep in mind that someone will also need to be on lifeguard duty when you go swimming. Accidents can happen, and you surely want to have available help.
You’ll have a workout system at your disposal.
If you struggle with visiting the gym or exercising in general, a pool might change that. Swimming is a great form of exercise since it engages your entire body, while also working your heart and lungs. Enjoying the occasional swim can help you stay in shape.
If you want a bigger challenge, you can race against your best times, practice dives, or even holding your breath. These will help you develop impressive muscle strength and endurance, and you may never need to visit the gym again.
Initial costs can be staggering.
Getting a pool requires a lot of consideration. Installation and customization options will cost a pretty sum. More importantly, you may have to make home modifications to accommodate your swimming pool. For example, cutting down a tree to make room outside, or rearranging your home’s interior to make space for an indoor pool.
Above-ground pools are usually cheaper than indoor pools. Unfortunately, you can’t just substitute one for the other. They both have advantages and disadvantages, and it’s better to get your desired pool the first time around. Thus, it would be best if you prepared to part with the building costs.
It may not add as much value as you think.
Before you install a pool, it’s also helpful to know that it doesn’t automatically raise your home’s value. While it’s easy to think spending $20,000 on a pool immediately increases your home’s value by that amount, the reality is slightly different.
The actual value of your property depends on several factors, including the current market, buyer demand, and the state of the pool when you’re ready to sell. In the right climate and with proper representation, you might get a great deal for your home. But then, it’s not a guarantee.
Maintenance costs may stack up.
After parting with the initial costs, you still won’t be out of the woods. Pools can be expensive to maintain depending on where you live, how often you use them, and the kind of pool you own. You’ll need to keep the chemicals in balance, filter the water, remove leaves, winterize it, and much more.
It’s easier to hire help for these tasks, but it’s also more expensive. According to Citizens Bank, it costs an average of $3,000 to $5,000 to maintain a pool per year when you consider heating costs, toys, cleaning, filtering, and so much more.
Hire the best installers.
If you’re going to spend all that money on your pool, it only makes sense to do it right. You want professionals with years of experience, the best materials you can get, and so much more. Pros can build your pool in a way that it blends with your other amenities and looks as beautiful as possible.
Besides installation quality, the right professionals can also help you save costs where it counts. For example, wall panels in the pool are beautiful, but they may not be the best for your needs. You can find savvy pros at https://www.titanaquaticexhibits.com
Indoor pools have their perks and downsides.
One functional benefit of indoor pools is that they are all-season. You can enjoy a lovely swim, whether it’s in the middle of summer or the cold winter months. Indoor pools can also give your family privacy. This is important if you live in a slightly populated area, as there’s only so much picket fences can do to keep out prying eyes.
On the other hand, indoor pools tend to give off humidity. Outside, the moisture dissipates in the air, and you don’t notice. Indoors, the air becomes thick and sticky, and you may require more equipment to clear it up.
Above-ground vs. in-ground pools
For many people, above-ground pools are the better option. They cost less to build and maintain, and you can easily pack them up and take with you. They are also great for summertime fun with the family.
If you’re looking for a pool with more exercise options or a bump in your home’s value, in-ground pools are the better choice. They are also more aesthetic than the above-ground variety.
The Bottom Line
There’s a lot to consider when getting a pool. The financial costs alone may deter you. However, if you do install your pool, there’s also a significant payoff. With proper installation, you and your family can enjoy your pool for years to come.
About Carson Derrow
