Tuesday, 8 March 2011

Items to Consider Before Adding a Pool

By Pat Miller


The first question to ask yourself is why do you desire a swimming pool. Is it for the added enjoyment and entertainment value for family and close friends or are you simply investing in a swimming pool to increase your property's real estate value? Although a pool might be an attractive selling feature for some home buyers, realize that in some neighborhoods it just might make your home more challenging to sell and to make back your investment in having the pool put in. Putting in your own swimming pool so you will not have to brave the crowds at public pools or pay monthly fees at a health club makes the idea sound very attractive. But there are a number of things to seriously take into account before installing a swimming pool on your property in order to make the proper decision. Homeowners who like the idea of having either an in ground or above ground pool right in the personal privacy and convenience of their own back yard should know that installing a pool represents a significant investment of time and cash.

The secondary thing to consider are local zoning and construction codes regarding putting in a pool. Is your back yard really sizable enough to support a swimming pool? There are several types of pool sizes and shapes depending upon the space you have allotted for this installation. These can include a gunite or concrete swimming pool which is permanent and also the most expensive choice, a pre-formed fiberglass pool which is inserted into the ground, a vinyl swimming pool that is a liner supported by walls, or an above-ground swimming pool, the weight of which must still be able to be supported by the area you have allocated for the swimming pool area.

Costs for pool installation can range everywhere from several hundred dollars for simple above-ground pools to over $30,000 for permanent in-ground private pools. Its usually best to meet with a qualified lending company when it comes to a pool finance plan. Funding is the third consideration when dreaming about installing your own pool. And do not forget the cost of an adjoining patio area for relaxing, security fencing to help keep out unwanted visitors, intruders or domestic pets, and any special features such as landscaping around the pool or the addition of an eye-catching pool deck. A swimming pool also involves a monthly expenditure for its maintenance and care. Once you have expended the money for its design and installation, you should also allocate a budget for things like weekly cleaning and repairs when needed.

Consult with your property insurance agent on how having a pool in your yard may impact your insurance rates or even expose you to the possibility of getting sued by someone you invite to use the pool. The final thing to consider before the installation of a swimming pool is the liability factor. Using a pool may be a pleasure but having one is a continual financial responsibility. Fencing, pool covers and other security devices are essential when planning a home swimming pool to avoid incidents with curious children and pets as well as to discourage trespassers.

It is essential to think about the pros and cons of private swimming pool ownership. Many homeowners who decided that putting in a pool was an outstanding use of their financial resources did so because pools provide a superb family entertainment center, a regular source of exercise and are often viewed by many home buyers as a very attractive amenity when the house is put up for sale.




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