There are probably very few people who, on the face of it, don’t like the idea of having a pool in their backyard. In a way a pool is the ultimate domestic bling, the thing that sets your property apart from its boring neighbors with their victory gardens and finely manicured lawns. But often there is a significant disconnect between the idea of pool installation and the reality, and when things go wrong with the cement pond it’s more often than not the result of poor planning.
To help prevent the backyard bling from becoming “that backyard thing of which we don’t speak” Pool & Spa Outdoor has posted an informative list of 20 things to consider before signing the contracts and bringing in the backhoes. While many of them are common sense tips some speak to more important, often neglected considerations such as:
Stop and think about why you’re installing a swimming pool. Is it for your kids? For entertaining? Is it an investment? Do you want it to make a dramatic architectural statement? Or is a relaxing retreat for you and your spouse? Answering these questions will help tell you what kind of swimming pool you want.
And..
choose a seasoned swimming pool construction professional. Check with friends, your local and regional pool builders associations, even the Better Business Bureau. Interview several candidates, and ask about their building philosophies. A good pool builder will offer examples of his work, provide references (be sure to check them), and be able to answer relevant questions.
The first point has a way of clearing away the fantasies and unrealistic expectations that can surround talk of a pool installation and focusing attention on real world considerations that can help you make an informed decision. The second point assumes a) you’ve made it through the first point and decided that you still want to go ahead with a pool installation and b) you’re smart enough to know that choosing the right contractor for any home improvement project is a process all on its own that needs to be addressed with your eyes and ears wide open.
So what are some of the ‘relevant questions’ you should ask of a prospective pool builder? Try these:
- How long have you been building pools?
- Can you show me other pools you’ve built in the area?
- Do you provide ancillary services such as landscaping?
- Can you provide a copy of your contractor’s license and liability coverage?
- Is there anything specific I need to do to prepare my home or property for construction?
In addition the Business Bureau reminds prospective pool owners that the contract they’ll sign with the builder may well be the most important aspect of the entire process. Read the fine print and make sure it includes everything you want and covers every possible expense. Yes, every one. It should also lay out specific start and completion dates and include penalties to the contractor if those dates are missed.
Other Things to Consider Before Taking the Pool Installation Plunge
While installing a pool will almost always add some value to your property the more important consideration is if and how it will actually add value to your life and that of your family. If you build a pool with the kids in mind make sure they’re of an age where they’ll be able to take advantage of it for a number of years. If you want a pool that you can use primarily for exercise purposes you’ll want to make sure you don’t get talked into some exotic configuration where swimming laps will be nearly impossible.
Seabreeze Pools: The GTA’s Leading Pool Installation Company
Before making any plans regarding pool installation call the pros at Seabreeze Pools. We’ve been providing beautiful state of the art swimming pool solutions for homeowners in the GTA for years and sport an impressive resume to show for it. We’ll sit down with you and help you decide exactly which type of pool will best serve your needs and then build it for you via a predictable, transparent construction process that will contain no surprises. Once your installation is complete it will be time for number 20 on that Pool & Spa Outdoor list: Time to plan that first pool party!