Your dream of having a splendid backyard pool is much closer to reality than you think. All you need to figure out are the costs involved in building and maintaining one. This article provides an in-depth look at the fundamental elements of pool installation and upkeep, including the initial investment, the impact of pool size and design on the cost, regular expenses, and unexpected costs. Keep reading to educate yourself on these critical financial considerations.
Understanding the Basics: What Goes Into Building a Pool?
Source: bobvila.com
Building a pool goes beyond digging a hole in the ground. It involves careful planning and design, grading the site, and constructing the pool shell. It can also include landscaping and installing a perimeter fence, especially for households with children or pets. The process starts with choosing the type of pool — in-ground or above-ground, and the material — concrete, vinyl, or fiberglass. The chosen pool type and material significantly influence the overall cost of the project. Read on to find out how.
Before you start looking into building a pool, you may want to square away your finances. Home loans are a major part of that. If you’re wondering, does iSelect do home loans? The answer is yes! iSelect is a trusted resource that specializes in assisting individuals with finding the perfect home loan for their needs. With a wide range of options available, you can compare your options and find the one that suits your financial situation and goals. Whether you are a first-time homebuyer or looking to refinance an existing mortgage, iSelect can provide you with the support and guidance you need.
Variance in Price: The Impact of Pool Size, Materials, and Design on Cost
Once you’ve decided on the type of pool, it’s time to finalize the pool size, the materials to be used, and the design. These factors greatly affect the pool cost. A smaller pool would obviously cost less than a bigger one, but the price per square foot might increase with a decrease in size due to efficiency costs. Similarly, the material you choose for the pool can vary in cost. Concrete is the most expensive, but it’s durable and fully customizable.
Vinyl is cheaper but comes with higher maintenance costs. Fiberglass is a mid-tier option. The design of the pool also affects cost. A simple rectangular pool would cost less than a pool with curves, or additional features like an island or water feature. Certain factors external to the main pool structure can influence the cost. Landscaping, decking, and the need for retaining walls due to sloping land can boost the price, but it also adds value to your property.
Ongoing Expenses: Overview of Pool Maintenance Costs
Source: angi.com
Building the pool is just the start of the expenses. Regular pool maintenance is essential to keep it clean, healthy, and safe for use. Major aspects of pool maintenance include routine cleaning, chemical balance checks, adjustments, and equipment checks. Additionally, you may need to replace certain parts over time — the pool pump, filter, or liner, for example.
Pool cleaning involves testing, adjusting pool chemicals, brushing the sides, vacuum cleaning, and skimmer and pump basket cleaning. You can outsource this task to a pool service company, or do it yourself to save on expenses. Other regular costs include pool heating and lighting. If you’ve opted for a solar heater or energy-efficient LED lights, your operational costs can be reduced despite the higher initial investment.
As this article illustrates, getting a pool involves understanding all the costs involved — from initial build costs to regular and unexpected expenses. Armed with this information, you can plan your dream project with a clear financial perspective. Though it can take hard work and effort, the result is well worth it. Follow our advice and you can get your pool built and your family can enjoy it for years to come.
