Thinking about a pool for this summer

Start planning now! Chances are that most pool contractors are booked up solid by Spring!

Fall or early in the new year is an ideal time to contact a contractor. Planning a pool involves a number of things to consider and it should not be a rushed process. You want to make sure it fits your yard and fits right once it is in place!



Most common things to consider:

• Pool size and equipment location is usually the first idea to cross the table... What would fit best?...a humpback kidney shaped pool with its rounded edges?... or a roman-end pool? Layout planning with either your pool contractor or a landscape designer will come in handy here.

• Backyard access!!! Is there a wide enough gate or fence area to allow excavation equipment through? You may need your neighbours participation in granting equipment access across their property with the promise of full repair once the job is completed. (Promising use of pool usually wins them over.)

• Check local by-laws and regulations regarding pool installs. Building codes are put in place to ensure safety for both the wandering public and the property residents. Things considered are pool locations, ravine protection by-laws, septic systems, maintaining a certain percentage of regulated green space and most importantly... fences & gates!

• Vinyl or concrete? In-ground or above ground? An average cost for an in-ground vinyl-lined pool can start at $35,000. Concrete based pools average $50,000. Above ground pools are cheap to install yet often look like an eye-sore in the landscape because of their height.

• Consider pool patios & finish materials... A three-foot wide band of concrete is typically installed to encase the sides of the pool and add to the paved access area. It helps guarantee the pool edges from being damaged by frost or prevent rainwater from washing in soil & debris that clogs the pump/filter. Consider a different look before it is done.
  

• Pool coping... They can build the pool edge to accept stone coping or to finish with a plastic edge-moulding. Depending on stone choice, it could cost between $3,500 to $7,000 for installation. Once you know the size of your pool, start looking for the proper amount of stone coping needed as supplies sell out fast!

• Last thing to consider is a Saltwater or Chlorine-treated pool. Saltwater systems actually produce a natural type of chlorine that keeps the water clean and is gentle on your skin. The filtration systems are different so you need to determine which way you want to go. Ask your contractor to explain all the pros and cons of both systems.