Photo Courtesy: Bruce

If you are fortunate enough to be in a position to have your very own swimming pool installed, you might want to read this article before you go ahead and order one. There are some very important questions that need to be answered before deciding on the design and type of pool you really want. After all, since the pool will be around for a long time, you may as well get the one that will suit your purposes the best.

Details

If you have wanted a pool for years, you probably have a few ideas of the type you really would like. You should also have a look online to see what types of products and features are currently available. Your ideas may be a little outdated and it pays to keep up with the latest technology. Once you have decided on the ideal design, you can contact the pool builder and start to turn your dreams into reality.

Pictures Are Good

It can be extremely hard to put a visual idea into descriptive words, if you happen to see a pool design in a magazine that you really like, just bring the magazine to your pool builder. He will appreciate the gesture and will have a much better idea of your vision of an ideal pool. If you are struggling for ideas, just type in ‘swimming pool galleries’ in your search engine and you will soon be spoilt for choice.

Pool Builder

A great pool can only exist if the pool builder is equally as great, so do not just use the first builder that you come across. If you happen to see a lovely pool in your neighbourhood, do not be shy to ask the owner about its origins. When you have narrowed down your choices, you should interview them as if you are their potential employer, because that is exactly your role is in this business relationship.

Shapes

The shape of your swimming pool is very important in relation to the design and its intended use. If you want to hammer out a few lengths after work, you should go for the classic rectangle shape. But if you prefer to float around on a lazy afternoon with your kids, you may prefer a novelty shape. Think about your garden space and style; if you have a lot of vegetation and trees in your backyard, you could think about a free form swimming pool.

Budget

You should have a budget in mind before you speak to the pool builder, otherwise you might end up overspending in a big way. He will happily take your money and will make your pool as beautiful as you can afford. Ask him for an estimate and explain that you will not be happy with any hidden surprises along the way. The builder should know how much you have to spend and will stick within that limit when suggesting ideas. If you find that he is stretching things too far, just say goodbye and look for a new one.

Luke Wright is an interior designer and a good one at that. Having a swimming pool is a privilege according to him and he advises people to take wise decisions when it comes to its design. He also suggests aquarightpools.com for this purpose, as they are the best when it comes to designing a pool in CT.

An elegant Swimming Pool designed for a home by Space Landscape Designs of Australia

You finally decided to take the plunge and now you are just about to choose your first ever family swimming pool. You can hardly wait, the summer is nearly here and the spring is mild enough to enjoy some great family time in the garden.

The missing part of the puzzle is just around the corner, so let’s look at how you should proceed. Swimming pools are a fantastic addition to any family home, but you should take a little time when deciding on the type of pool that suits your needs.

Think About Your Pool

A dip in the pool, sizzling BBQ treats and a nice backyard picnic – which family wouldn’t love it!

You will need to appoint a swimming pool designer to make your ideas reality but before contacting one, you need to be clear on what those ideas are. Make a list that contains all of the things you want from your pool and speak to your family for their input as well. The pool designer has seen it all before, but he will be happier if you are both on the same page. Check out some websites for visual ideas and print these out – a picture tells a thousand words.

Inground Pools

You may be aware that there are three different types of inground swimming pools; you should do a little homework and see which one suits your needs:

A custom Gunite Pool in Cleveland, Ohio – Photo Courtesy: Green Impressions

• Concrete or Gunite pools – These are the traditional type of construction and are very versatile. They have unlimited design options because of the nature of their construction medium. But they require more water treatment due to the concrete aspect.

Vinyl lined swimming pool – Photo Courtesy: RM Hauch

• Vinyl Liner Pools – These are constructed using a concrete floor and steel or polymer walls. The walls and floor are covered with a durable vinyl liner. These are almost as versatile as the concrete pool construction, but the liner needs replacing at some point.

Fiberglass pool in Ridgecrest, California with ‘coolcrete’ around the pool enabling someone to walk on the concrete with bare feet in the summer – Photo Courtesy: Don Cornelius

• Fibreglass Pools - A hole is dug into your ground and the fibreglass shell is then lowered into the space. These are easy to clean and will not require resurfacing, but the shape and size are limited to the shell construct.

Pool Designer

You need to be able to locate a credible pool designer, and this should be one of your priorities. If you are stumped for ideas then have a look around your neighbourhood for some smart looking pool designs. Ask the owners for the contact details; they may get a commission and so should be happy to help.

A nicely designed swimming pool.

A great pool designer is worth his or her weight in gold. They can give suggestions regarding the size and design of the pool, but should be happy to listen to your input as well. You need to find a balance between your new pool and your present garden and home aesthetics. The pool designer will be able to lend their experience and together you should find a happy medium.

Budget Issues

Both less space and money may be tackled with good planning and budgeting. Look at how nicely this small space has been converted into a nice pool and sitting area by Space Designs.

Buying a swimming pool is a little akin to buying a luxury car, and you can get carried away very easily. Unless you have won the lottery, it is wise to establish a budget and stick to it religiously. Explain your financial ceiling to the pool designer and you should have a realistic set of choices ahead of you for your magical family swimming pool!

Robert Blunt is a consultant to many leading landscape designers in Melbourne. He has worked on a wide variety of projects and has also written many articles on the topic of home improvement on his blog.