A swimming pool is a great addition to your home. Not only does it increase the value of your property, but it provides a welcomed relief for those hot summer days. It’s also an excellent venue for entertaining and adds to the aesthetic appeal of your backyard.
If you are investing in a swimming pool, you need to do some research beforehand. When deciding which pool will be best, consider the following:
- The space you have
- Choice of materials
- The placement
Let’s get into more detail.
Tip 1: Consider the available space
Is the area where you want to place the pool large, long, straight, narrow, regular, wide, or irregular? Is the ground level or sloped? These questions will assist you in determining a suitable design.
You will not get the approval you need to build your pool if your design does not integrate well into your yard. For instance, your pool must always allow enough room for the required safety fencing.
If you intend to put up patio furniture or potted plants near the pool, you’ll require even more space – safety requirements stipulate that you can’t have any large objects right next to the pool’s fence.
Tip 2: Think about the pool’s safety
Consider the following factors to ensure that the pool isn’t dangerous:
- Ground Fault Circuit Interruption (GFCI). GFCIs are protective measures that prevent the risk of electrocution. The mechanism acts like a circuit breaker, shutting off electrical power in the event of a ground fault.
- Fencing. Erect a fence around the pool area. It’s recommended that security fences are over 1.2 metres high to prevent the risk of children climbing over. The fence should come with a secure, firmly attached gate that can’t be pushed easily.
As an added layer of security, you can install an alarm that sounds an alert if the gate is open.
- Cover. It’s important to get a pool cover, so children and pets don’t fall in. Better yet, consider getting an automatic pool cover to avoid such accidents.
Tip 3: Consider the pool’s placement
Select from these pool placement options: in-ground, above-ground, or on-ground.
In-ground pools require heavy machines to dig, so be sure the excavators can fit in your yard if you choose this option.
On-ground pools are only partially submerged but still give the look and feel of an inground pool. However, they limit your choice of material and only come in specific shapes and sizes.
Above-ground pools don’t require any digging and are more suited for smaller yards where you can’t use heavy machines. They also end up being much faster to construct and need less maintenance. We love above-ground and semi in-ground options as they offer versatility, beautiful landscaping and family fun – without breaking the bank.
Own your dream pool now. Consider these tips to select the right pool for your backyard and get in touch with the friendly Affordable Pools team to discuss your options. Check out these amazing pools to start collecting some inspiration.
Read Also:
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Heat Pumps 101: Keeping Your Backyard Pool Warm Year-Round
Should I buy an in ground or above ground swimming pool?