There's no better way to spend a hot summer day than with a swimming pool in your own outdoor area. Whether you're doing laps in the cool water or just stretching out on a lounge chair while your kids splash each other, this is fun for the whole family. Of course, installing a pool is a big commitment that will change the design of the garden forever. Before you have a swimming pool installed in your garden, you should consider the following tips.
One of the most popularElements of garden designis the swimming pool. If you plan correctly, a swimming pool can become the focal point of your yard, bring you joy and increase the resale value of your home. However, it is important to note a few things.
Planning the pool according to the terrain
Most inground pools are rectangular in shape, but not all gardens are flat enough to support this design. Additionally, if you have to work around garden beds, this may limit the size and shape of your inground pool. Fortunately, although a rectangle is the norm, there are many shapes an inground pool can be formed into.
Round, semi-circular and even triangular pools can also be built, and depending on the shape and slope of your garden, they can fit better and look much nicer than the standard rectangular pool. If you want a custom design that doesn't fit into a specific geometric shape and fits elegantly between your gardens, that's possible too.
Think about how you want to use the pool
One of the most important steps in thePlanning your poolis the consideration of what you will primarily use it for. Do you have children who will play in it all the time? Will you use it for water aerobics or other sports? Will you be hosting pool parties? Or will you hardly “use” it and your main concern is that the pool increases the aesthetic value of your garden?
The reasons why you want to install a swimming pool in the garden should influence the design. If you want a pool for family gatherings that is also suitable for children, you should choose a simple, shallow and easily accessible pool. On the other hand, if you want a pool that is primarily intended for adults, you are better off with a deeper pool that focuses on looks rather than ease of access.
Protect your swimming pool
Since you won't be able to use a backyard pool year-round, one of the most important planning steps is to make sure your pool is built to withstand the cold winters. This means installing a pool with a foundation that will not be damaged in cold weather and ensuring the pool is drained properly before the water freezes. Also, purchase a sturdy cover that will withstand the elements and prevent snow and ice from accumulating in your empty pool.
It's also important to keep people, especially children, away from your pool. It is highly recommended that you install a fence around your swimming pool to prevent children from falling in and drowning. Motion detectors in the swimming area are also a good idea.
Planting around the pool
The perfect swimming pool should complement your landscaping, not contrast it. Shrubs, trees and flowers that harmonize well with the blue color of the water are ideal. It can also be a good ideaPlanting shrubs, which are dense enough to offer you privacy from the neighbors.
The most important thing is to avoid anything that puts a lot of strain on the pool filter. Trees that shed a lot of leaves can be particularly problematic as they can quickly clog drains and filters. If you don't want to rake leaves out of the pool every morning, stick to evergreen plants.
Calculate your budget for the backyard swimming pool
Perhaps the biggest downside to installing an inground pool is the numerous costs that will be incurred. Electricity bills, maintenance of the pool's interior, equipment like pumps, and the chemicals used to keep the water clean are all necessary expenses that can add up to an unpleasant sum. Also, don’t forget to insure your backyard swimming pool against any damage or injuries that may result.
Although installing a pool can be a lot of fun, you need to make sure it doesn't eat up too much of your paycheck. One of your first steps in pool planning should be to calculate your estimated annual costs. You should still make sure you can afford the construction and maintenance of your new pool. If you can, do it, the benefits are many. Here are just a few reasons why you should have a swimming pool in your backyard:
- Pools are ideal for outdoor activities
- Swimming pools can create their own microclimate
- Forget crowded beaches or public swimming pools
- Children love them