Constructing Pool: Swimming Pool Design and Construction

Swimming pools are excellent places to chill out, exercise and indulge in recreational sports like water polo. Moreover, swimming pools add value to the property. People passionate about swimming can invest in constructing their very own swimming pool. However, swimming pools are custom construction projects, and are built differently by different pool contractors. Careful investigation and homework regarding swimming pool designs, and construction has to be done before actually constructing the pool.

As far as swimming pool designs are concerned, their selection is influenced by a variety of factors. The owner has to take several factors into consideration while choosing the pool for his backyard. Pool usage is an important factor; that is 'who is going to use it and for how long?'. For large families who want to play games in the pool, the deep 1.5 - 2.0 m pools are appropriate. Whereas, if after some years, only the parents are the ones going to use it, then the 1.2 - 1.4 m deep pools are appropriate. Nobody wants to regret 10 years down the line, regarding the style and size of the pool.

Then comes the pool type. The market offers various types of swimming pools such as in-ground and above-ground pools. Above-ground pools as compared to the in-ground ones are cheaper to install and maintain. However, they lack the same comfort level and feel that in-ground pools give. For those not tight on budget, and are looking for quality and comfort, the in-ground pools are better. Outdoor and indoor pools can also be considered, depending upon the space available to construct the pool.

Among the in-ground pools, there are various varieties to choose from, such as concrete block pools, fiberglass pools, vinyl-lined pools, gunite pools and poured concrete pools. This choice will be determined to a large extent on the budget in hand. It is advisable to invest in a pool that is proportionate in cost to the actual cost of the house. It is not appropriate to have a mere $22,000, 10 m fiberglass pool in a $200,000 house. Similarly, it is foolish to invest in $40,000 luxury pool, in a $100,000 property, as the resale value will never be there to benefit from.

Everybody wants an elegant and bigger pool, however, it is advisable to go for smaller pools with better quality equipments and finishers, rather than spend all the money on low quality pools with a larger area. This is something very important and must be remembered while planning for a swimming pool construction. Never opt for the lowest cost. In case of swimming pools, one gets what one pays for.

Besides the budget, certain other factors also determine the selection of pool type. For people not looking for customized options, and are happy with the standard shapes available (which can be fit in the backyard), the fiberglass pool is a wonderful option. On the other hand, those who want to construct their own pools can opt for in-ground vinyl liner pools. People who want their pools to blend with the property can opt for sprayed concrete construction. With spray concrete construction, one can attain either free-form or pool with formal lines to match the house lines.

Swimming pools require constant attention and must be cleaned regularly. Swimming pool maintenance is not a child's play, and needs to be considered before constructing the pool. Approximately 2 hours of work is required every week, and somebody has to carryout this function regularly. One cannot build a swimming pool and then leave it in the backyard. Improper maintenance can make swimming pools breeding grounds for bacteria, thus resulting into waterborne illnesses. The climatic condition of the area will also have to be taken into consideration. Cold regions will require heating systems or solar covers to keep the water warm after the summer season.

Swimming pools are fun, however, they can also be dangerous, especially when children are around. According to a study conducted by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), 'drowning is the second leading cause of death for children under the age of fourteen'. Swimming pool fencing is a good safety measure which will prevent children from going near the pool without supervision. Swimming pool safety covers are also available, which can be spread across the pool surface to prevent accidental drowning.

One need to get permission from the local council before constructing a pool. The council will send application forms, which need to be filled and submitted. Once the local council gives the approval, the owner can approach a swimming pool specialist, who will undertake the swimming pool construction project.

A good swimming pool design and construction is all about achieving a balance between aesthetics and function. The pool, while performing all its functions to its fullest, must also have a fantastic appeal. The authentic look adds beauty to the surroundings and the property, even when its not in use.