Choosing to install a swimming pool is an important decision because it will affect your life for several years. A good pool must meet your expectations, whether you want to use it for relaxation or exercise. You can find dozens of different pools online, each with its advantages and disadvantages. How do you know which to choose? First, decide on the purpose of your pool. If you plan to swim regularly, you might prefer a larger pool. But a smaller outdoor pool is probably enough if you just want to relax in the sun. Thankfully,
swimming pool builders can help you create the facility you've always wanted.
1. Decide whether to build the pool yourself
Swimming pools are often seen as luxury additions to homes. But there are some ways you can build one yourself without breaking the bank. For example, you could buy a small portable outdoor pool kit, put it together in your garden and enjoy hours of fun in the sun. Or you could start planning your dream pool now - even if you don't know where to begin. If you'd prefer to hire someone else to do the job, plenty of companies out there specialise in designing and building custom pools. They can advise on what type of pool suits you best and help you decide exactly what features you require.
2. Choose the right size of pool for your garden
A typical backyard swimming pool measures around 2 metres x 4 metres, which could be ideal if you have limited space. This is enough room for a few adults to swim laps, but it won't accommodate a whole family or a group of friends all looking to have a good time in the water. You'll probably need something bigger if you plan to entertain guests regularly. For example, a standard pool measuring 5 metres x 8 metres will easily fit ten people comfortably. There are types of pools to fit all sizes of gardens.
3. Make the most of the sunlight
If you're planning to have an outdoor swimming pool installed, it's important to do all you can to make the water temperature just right. If you site the pool in an area in shadow for long periods of the day, the water won't have the opportunity to stay warm enough for regular use. Therefore, consider which parts of the garden get the most sunlight and make the most of this free, natural source of warmth.
4. Avoid the external boundaries of the property
It's important to place your pool in as convenient a location as possible. One of the main criteria you'll need to consider is how close to fences and other boundaries it can be. Generally, it's best to leave at least a metre between fences and the pool's edge. This gives you space to access the pool from all sides, and if you need to repair the fence in the future, you'll have space to work.
5. Ensure you have a good view of the pool
The safety of everyone who uses your pool, especially children, is a critical consideration. Therefore, keep a clear eye line between the pool and areas where you might want to watch them, such as your patio or through windows in the house. You need to be able to see the youngsters at all times, especially if they aren't powerful swimmers. This will be a vital consideration for anyone with an L-shaped garden.
6. Create a convenient location for your associated equipment
If space allows, make sure you have space nearby for a range of swimming pool-related equipment. This can all be incorporated into the pump housing area, for example. If you have a swimming pool pump installed, try to keep it no higher than the pool itself, as this will place undue stress on the pump while it's working. If you have enough room to store inflatables, the pool cover, pool maintenance tools, water slides and toys for the children, then so much the better.
7. Arrange to have trees and bushes trimmed if necessary
Overhanging trees, hedges and bushes can create a great deal of debris both in and around the pool, especially in the autumn months. It's a good idea, therefore, to perform some trimming from time to time. This may be a job you can handle yourself, but if not, there are plenty of accredited professionals to be found locally.
Conventional swimming pools can bring you, your family and your friends so much pleasure in the summertime, but placing it in the optimum position is crucial. Therefore, make sure you spend a little time deciding where it should go before making a firm decision. After that, you can look forward to pool parties with friends while simultaneously adding to the value of your real estate.