Tips for Choosing the Best Size and Style of Swimming Pool for Your Home
When you're ready to have a new swimming pool installed on your property, you need to ensure you've thought over your choices carefully so you know you'll be happy with that pool for years to come. Note a few tips for choosing the size and the style of pool that you might prefer, and then be sure to discuss all your options with a contractor as needed.
Visibility
If you have kids, you may want an in-ground model rather than an above ground pool. Having visibility at all times is vital even if you need to step away from the pool for just a few minutes. Don't assume that an above ground pool means less risk of children falling into the pool, as it's easy for toddlers and pets to climb the stairs to an above ground pool where they are out of your line of sight. Something with greater visibility and a sturdy fence can be a better option, so opt for an in-ground pool when you have kids.
Portability
Do you think you might move sometime in the future? If so, consider if you would want to take your pool with you; an above ground pool can be disassembled and relocated when you move so you can enjoy it at your new home. Talk to a real estate agent about how a pool may affect your home's property values and this can help you decide if you want an in-ground pool that stays or an above ground pool that's portable.
Soil conditions
The soil conditions of your property may help you decide on the size of the pool; if the soil is very soft, it may need treating with lime or clay to make it strong enough to hold up the weight of a pool. The cost of preparing the soil may affect the size of pool you choose; the larger the pool and the more depth you add to any side, the more water it will hold and the heavier the overall weight. Once you add the cost of creating a solid base for the pool, you may see that you can only afford something much smaller than you had intended!
Features and comfort
You need to ensure you have enough room around the pool for added features such as landscaping, a patio area, an outdoor shower for rinsing off and of course your safety fence or barrier. Don't underestimate the space needed for comfortable foot traffic around these items when choosing the overall length and width of your new pool.
