If you’re hoping to make your backyard more conducive to summer fun in the sun, you’re far from alone. According to recent estimates, the pool industry is thriving: there are around 10.4 million residential pools in the United States alone. In other words, if you’re shopping for outdoor pools, you’re in good company!
Of course, with a huge variety of sizes, materials, and styles, it can be difficult to find the best option. Worse, the last thing you want to do is invest in a pool you’ll regret in a few months. To avoid the most common pool building mistakes and select a pool you’ll enjoy for years, check out these quick tips.
Not Hiring the Right Team
Here’s a key fact to keep in mind as you continue reading: most of the mistakes below can be avoided as long as you hire the right contractors! With an experienced, reputable builder, you’ll have access to expert advice that can keep you from making common outdoor pool mistakes—in addition to more peace of mind.
Always Deferring to Your Construction Team
On the other hand, it’s important to remember that although the team you’ve hired are experts, they aren’t the ones who will be using the pool: you are. In other words, absorb all of their advice, but make sure you’re getting results you’ll feel comfortable with for the long-term.
Opting for a Diving Board
Diving boards sound like a great idea until you add one to your pool design. The use of a diving board requires you to put in a deep end in your pool design, and many homeowners discover after just a few pool sessions that this end of the pool rarely gets used. Worse, this pool feature can offer an expensive surprise: in some cases, it will drive up the price of your homeowners insurance!
Choosing the Wrong Kind of Pool
First and foremost, you’ll have to make a crucial decision between the two main types of pools: an above-ground pool or an in-ground pool. There’s no right or wrong answer, but it’s important to weigh your options and preferences with care.
For homeowners who are on the fence about adding a permanent new feature to their yard, for example, an above-ground pool is often the better choice. If you’re looking for high-quality above-ground options, consider these.
Ignoring the Sidelines
It may come as a surprise to hear this, but if you’re like most homeowners, you’ll spend just as much time—if not more—on the side of your pool as inside of it. As a result, it’s important to save enough space for a relaxing poolside environment instead of cramping the pool too close to your home.
Start Pool Building With Care
At the end of the day, it’s hard to ignore the fact that a new pool is a major investment of time, money, and materials—meaning that it’s crucial to get it right. Make sure to partner with a reputable team and listen to their insights with care as you move forward with your new pool building project. A little forethought on the front end can help you create a great design your household will enjoy for years to come!
Want more of the tips you need to make major home decisions? Check out our other home and real estate guides for more insights.
