Putting in Your Own Pool? Read This First!
Thinking about installing a pool for summer? Don’t be fooled, there’s a lot to consider before you engage with a supplier or contractor. Check out our top points to consider before you get started.
What are you using the pool for?
Is your land suitable for the construction of a pool?
It’s important to ensure that you do soil tests to check whether the site that you have chosen for your pool is suitable for installing one. Sandy, rocky or contaminated soil can be a concern for builders, while a high-water table can increase the costs of the building. Another factor to consider is that your site can be easily accessed by heavy machinery that is needed to dig the hole for your pool.
Fencing
It is a requirement by law that you have a temporary pool fence erected during the construction of your pool. This cost should be included in your contract with the company that is installing your pool so be sure to check your contract.
During the construction of your pool, it’s a good idea to start thinking about the style of permanent fencing you would like to install permanently. There are many options out there including:
Glass
this is the most popular option as it provides you with an unobstructed view of your pool; it can, unfortunately, be a pain to clean and it could possibly shatter under duress.
Tubular
A classic look that is made from aluminium, pre-galvanised steel or even wrought iron. It does have a reasonable visibility design which is practical for supervising children in the pool without the benefit of not having glass accidentally shattering.
Timber
Timber is a cheap option for pool fencing and, depending on your home style, can be pleasing to the eye. Plus, you can also change the colour of your pool fence at your leisure.
Fabric
The use of outdoor blinds is a visually appealing and durable way to fence off your pool. The wide range of colours and styles allow you to match your current home design.
How do I find the pool right builder?
Do your research on pool builders and find one that has a reputation for quality construction. Ask for referrals from people who have used a builder you are considering, to make sure that they were happy with the overall finish. Or why not check out the Pools Home One forum to see what others are saying in your area.
Once you have found the right builder you’ll want to discuss important factors such as the materials that will be used for your pool, cleaning systems and the actual style of your pool; ensuring it fits well with the design of your house. Design options are also important; does this builder produce infinity pools and creative designs or are they well known for building straightforward lap pools?
Remember safety
Don’t forget, if you have little ones or even frequent visitors with small children; be sure to keep your finished pool area child safe. Check your fence parameters; as things like plants, outdoor kitchens, umbrellas, BBQs or other climbable objects can be an easy way for a child to sneak over your fence. It’s best to ensure there is a minimum of one-metre distance between climbable objects and your pool fence - it only takes a few seconds for a child to drown.
Also, remember to install anti-slip flooring in the pool area. There are a range of paving and composite decking products with anti-slip properties.
What are you using the pool for?
- Do you intend to use your new pool for entertainment or leisure time with the family?
- Or do you want a pool for other reasons like health and fitness?
Is your land suitable for the construction of a pool?
It’s important to ensure that you do soil tests to check whether the site that you have chosen for your pool is suitable for installing one. Sandy, rocky or contaminated soil can be a concern for builders, while a high-water table can increase the costs of the building. Another factor to consider is that your site can be easily accessed by heavy machinery that is needed to dig the hole for your pool.
Fencing
It is a requirement by law that you have a temporary pool fence erected during the construction of your pool. This cost should be included in your contract with the company that is installing your pool so be sure to check your contract.
During the construction of your pool, it’s a good idea to start thinking about the style of permanent fencing you would like to install permanently. There are many options out there including:
Glass
this is the most popular option as it provides you with an unobstructed view of your pool; it can, unfortunately, be a pain to clean and it could possibly shatter under duress.
Tubular
A classic look that is made from aluminium, pre-galvanised steel or even wrought iron. It does have a reasonable visibility design which is practical for supervising children in the pool without the benefit of not having glass accidentally shattering.
Timber
Timber is a cheap option for pool fencing and, depending on your home style, can be pleasing to the eye. Plus, you can also change the colour of your pool fence at your leisure.
Fabric
The use of outdoor blinds is a visually appealing and durable way to fence off your pool. The wide range of colours and styles allow you to match your current home design.
How do I find the pool right builder?
Do your research on pool builders and find one that has a reputation for quality construction. Ask for referrals from people who have used a builder you are considering, to make sure that they were happy with the overall finish. Or why not check out the Pools Home One forum to see what others are saying in your area.
Once you have found the right builder you’ll want to discuss important factors such as the materials that will be used for your pool, cleaning systems and the actual style of your pool; ensuring it fits well with the design of your house. Design options are also important; does this builder produce infinity pools and creative designs or are they well known for building straightforward lap pools?
Remember safety
Don’t forget, if you have little ones or even frequent visitors with small children; be sure to keep your finished pool area child safe. Check your fence parameters; as things like plants, outdoor kitchens, umbrellas, BBQs or other climbable objects can be an easy way for a child to sneak over your fence. It’s best to ensure there is a minimum of one-metre distance between climbable objects and your pool fence - it only takes a few seconds for a child to drown.
Also, remember to install anti-slip flooring in the pool area. There are a range of paving and composite decking products with anti-slip properties.
