Inground Pool Planning 101: Your Top Considerations
Deciding to take the plunge and install an inground pool in your backyard is a big decision. Once you’ve made the decision, there are a lot of things to consider. You want to make sure you get the right pool for you and your family.
Today, we’ve made a list of what we view as your top considerations when it comes to inground pool planning.
1. Fiberglass or Concrete?
Everyone has their own preference, mainly due to budget. A fiberglass pool is generally less expensive to install because it is manufactured in a factory. You are limited to a certain number of size and shape configurations. A custom concrete/shotcrete pool will generally cost more, because of the increased labor to build it. Every aspect of your concrete pool is customizable. At LiveWell, we exclusively design and build custom concrete pools for our clients.
RELATED READING: Why We Build Your Custom Concrete Pool the Way We Do
2. Your Inground Pool Size
Choosing how big your pool should be will depend on the size of your yard, who will be using the pool, and what they will be using it for. Do you plan to just lounge around the pool, and throw a few pool parties? Then a mid-size pool and spa configuration might be just right. Do you want to swim laps? Then you will want a larger, rectangular pool. If you have a small yard, you may want to consider a cocktail pool.
You also need to consider how much patio space or pool decking you want around your pool.
3. Your Inground Pool Shape
A note about pool shapes: we encourage our clients to avoid amorphous shapes because that takes more labor and materials to get it right. Instead, we encourage more simple shapes such as rectangular or one with a few curves. This allows you to add flair with high-end features and still stay within your budget.
4. What Pool Features You Want
Think about the added features that will make your pool a paradise. Do you want custom tile? Do you want a pool waterfall? A swim-up pool bar? LED pool lighting? An outdoor shower? You will want to figure out what features are most important to you and budget for that.
RELATED READING: Pool Waterfalls 101: What You Need to Know
5. Hiring the Right Pool Builder
You will also need to do your homework to make sure you hire the right pool builder for the job. Hire someone who installs the type of pool you want. You may want to consider hiring a company that does landscaping and other hardscaping projects as well, so you’re only working with one contractor.
Select an outdoor living who has years of experience and can provide references. Interview at least 3 pool installation companies to find the one that’s right for you. You’ll be swimming before you know it!
Dream It. Build It. Live It.
If you’re looking for an inground pool installation team who can design and build your pool paradise including pool decking, pool waterfall, pergola, and pool landscaping, we can help. Use the contact form to schedule an on-site consultation or call 301.720.1000. We work with homeowners in Maryland, DC, and Northern Virginia. 100% financing is available.
