The kids have been at it for at least two years. Three kids hounding you with the same question, “When are we going to have a pool, Daddy? When?” The kids are ages 4, 6, and 7. You’ve been holding off on the decision, but you also realize that this might be the best time for the kids to enjoy a pool. And in a few years, they will get bigger and will develop other interests.
You’re returning home from a business trip in Ogden, Utah, and you’ve had a bit of time to think things through. This will be the news that you will bring to your children: We’re going to build the pool! There are still many lingering questions in your mind, like will you DIY the project or hire a general contractor. Is it within the budget that you have in mind?
Let’s look at the primary things you need to consider when building a pool or before even making one.
The Big Pool Picture
Association of Pool & Spa Professionals (APSP) estimates that around 10.4 million private homes in America have swimming pools. And the pool making business raked in an estimated $1 billion in revenue in 2018.
The cost of building a pool starts at more than $30,000 to upwards of $62,000. California, Florida, Texas, Arizona, and New York belong to the top 5 states with in-ground pools.
Main Considerations
The voices of your children begging and the faces of disappointment every time you say no are probably enough reasons for you to decide to do it finally. But that’s making a significant decision purely based on emotion. Building a huge project like a swimming pool creates a considerable impact on your collective and individuals lives. It will also significantly alter your outdoor landscape. Here are some of the things that you need to consider:
- Family meeting first. It’s a serious decision, so everyone needs to understand what it means to build a pool. Everyone will have a voice but tell little Betty, your four-year-old daughter, that she’s not allowed anywhere near the pool area without an accompanying adult! There are rules, and safety is the first one.
- Purpose. That you’re doing it for the kids is a valid reason. But don’t use it as an excuse to justify your reason, that of envy because you’re the only one amongst your friends who don’t have. Again, it’s a huge investment, that has a significant impact on how you and your family will live your life. Make sure that your purpose is compelling. Using it frequently to do laps to keep yourself healthy can be one of many reasons.
- Design. Go for something simple and functional. If you’re doing laps, box-shaped is the way to go, and this is what many expert pool builders advise. It will also be cheaper to build.
- Water treatment by pros. Look, water is the principal ingredient of a pool. You don’t want your children choking on iffy pool water or having to deal with moss or algae all year round because you didn’t have proper water treatment. Let the pros do it. It’s less costly in the long run.
The depth of your pool, the tiles to use, and the draining system are the other main areas you need to make a sound decision on. Make sure that you consult a professional if you are not even half-experienced as a builder hobbyist or handyman.
