It’s summer. It’s hot. And you’re dying for a way to cool down. Could this be the year you finally install a pool in your backyard? Sure, you can have more gatherings, and you might even get in some more swimming exercises. However, many people don’t consider the planning, building, maintenance, and freshwater required. Before you pay a pretty penny to install a backyard pool, consider these pointers.
Set a Budget
A pool is like any other home addition: You’ll need to find the money somewhere, like through home equity or a line of credit. Here’s the good news: There is a pool for every budget. Here’s the bad news: Budgets are not always correctly calculated. That means you should probably plan to spend more than you initially budgeted.
Your Utility Bill Will Cost More
Utility bills will rise when your pool is open. Why? Because you need electricity to power the pump. And if you have a heated pool, that’ll require even more energy.
Size and Shape Matters
If you have a small lot, you must strategically choose a size and shape that works for your yard. This may require custom designs and creativity to make your swimming pool dreams come true, and that can add another expense to the overall bill.
Don’t Forget the Landscaping
You can’t place a pool in your backyard without considering the surrounding landscape. For instance, do you want shade covering half of the pool to protect you from the afternoon sun? Do you want a pool deck for tanning and lounging? Do you need lighting to go night swimming? Do you need your pool to be gated? All of these factors should be considered when planning your backyard pool.