If you’re looking to spruce up your backyard, you might be considering purchasing a pool. Widely considered a luxury, swimming pools and other water features can add visual appeal to your home’s exterior. Depending on where you live and a number of other factors, you likely won’t recoup the cost of a pool if you were to sell the home, but a thoughtfully conceived water feature may make your home more desirable. A pool may bring satisfaction and enjoyment to your household and that may be all the reason you need to buy one. Here are some things to consider as you contemplate this purchase.
Purpose of Pool
As you do your research, think carefully about the purpose of adding a pool or other water feature to your yard. Are you looking for a fun activity for the family during warmer months? Are you looking for something grand that will make your yard fit for feature on TV or in a style magazine? You need to make sure that what you buy is what you really want. For example, a deep end and a diving board would take up a significant amount of available space, but would anyone really use it regularly? Whatever you decide to go with, it should complement the features of your yard and home in the present and in the future.
Type of Pool
You can either install a pool above-ground or in-ground. Above-ground options are usually round or oblong and don’t last as long. Often they are eyesores and do not blend in with the surrounding environment. For in-ground pools, you should carefully consider the type of container you buy. Containers may be made of concrete, vinyl and/or fiberglass. Each comes with its own pros and cons. Concrete containers can be built to almost any shape, but they are the priciest. They are susceptible to algae and bacteria growth and chips and cracks, making maintenance quite expensive. Vinyl liners are relatively affordable, but they must be replaced if torn. Fiberglass containers require the least upkeep, but not all containers are made equal. If you live in Nevada, they have some great pool builders, you can consult a reputable builder for pool construction in Las Vegas to help you explore all your options. Often they can help save time and money, and can get you the most value out of a pool construction based on your budget.
True Cost
As you consider your options, be sure to take into account the true cost of having a pool. The cost of ownership involves more than labor and materials. Pools that require more maintenance are more expensive in the long run. You need to include the expenses associated with filtration, cleaning and heating. Covers, skimmers, decking, steps, ladders, diving boards, water slides and lighting are other items that you need to factor in. Local regulations may require non-climbable fencing and other safety features. Adding a pool may require more homeowner insurance coverage. Your property taxes may also increase.
Understanding the Fine Print
Don’t skim over your contract and warranty with a builder. You need to make sure you fully understand what a warranty includes. A pool warranty usually covers three parts:
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Structural – Structural integrity of walls, container materials and other reinforcements
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Equipment – Filters, skimmers, heaters, pumps and other items related to operation and maintenance
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Workmanship – Usually involves plumbing, electrical and other related materials
Take as much time as you need to fully understand what is covered in the warranty and who is providing coverage. Some items may be covered by a manufacturer while others are covered by a dealer. When something goes wrong, who do you call? Watch out for prorated warranties. These usually offer partial coverage for items based on how much time has transpired since installation. When considering bids for the work, request a blank warranty and go through it with each contractor.
On a hot day, it’s great to be able to go outside and enjoy time in your own watering hole. It can be part of a great fitness regimen. A beautiful pool elevates the aesthetic appeal and enjoyment in your home’s yard; however, there are significant upfront and maintenance costs that come with ownership. Plan thoroughly and carefully when considering contractors and configurations to minimize the risk of a swimming pool from becoming a horror story.
