By Timothy Jones


Putting in your own swimming pool so you don't have to brave the crowds at public pools or pay monthly fees at a health club makes the concept sound very attractive. But there are many things to seriously think about before putting in a swimming pool in your yard in order to make the proper choice. Homeowners who relish the idea of having either an in ground or above ground pool right in the privacy and convenience of their own yard should realize that putting in a pool represents a big investment of time and finances. The first question to ask yourself is why do you need a swimming pool. Is it for the added satisfaction and entertainment value for family and close friends or are you simply putting in a swimming pool to increase your home's real estate value? Although a pool may be an attractive selling feature for some home buyers, understand that in some neighborhoods it just may make your home more difficult to sell and to get back your investment in having the pool installed.

The second thing to take into account are local zoning and construction codes regarding putting in a pool. Is your backyard really big enough to support a pool? There are a number of types of pool sizes and patterns depending upon the area you have designated for this installation. These can include a gunite or concrete pool which is permanent and also the most costly choice, a pre-formed fiberglass swimming pool which can be inserted into the ground, a vinyl swimming pool which is a liner supported by walls, or an above-ground swimming pool, the weight of which must still be able to be held by the soil you have designated for the pool area.

It is usually best to talk with a qualified loan company when it comes to a pool loan. Expenses for swimming pool installation can range anywhere from several hundred dollars for modest above-ground pools to over $10,000 for permanent in-ground private pools. Affordability is the 3rd thing to consider when thinking about installing your own swimming pool. And don't forget the expense of an adjoining patio area for relaxing, security fencing which keeps out unwanted visitors, intruders or domestic pets, and any special features such as gardening around the pool or the addition of an eye-catching pool deck. A pool also involves a monthly expenditure for its maintenance and care. Once you have expended the cash for its design and installation, you need to also allocate a budget for things like weekly washing and repairs when needed.

Fencing, pool covers and other security devices are crucial when planning a home swimming pool to avoid incidents with curious children and pets as well as to dissuade trespassers. Consult with your property insurance agent on how having a swimming pool in your yard might impact your insurance charges or even expose you to the chance of getting sued by someone you invite to use the pool facilities. The last aspect to consider before the installation of a swimming pool is the accountability factor. Using a swimming pool may be a pleasure but having one is a continual monetary responsibility.

Many home owners who decided that putting in a pool was an excellent use of their money did so because pools provide a wonderful family entertainment center, a daily source of exercise and are often viewed by many home purchasers as a very appealing amenity when the property is placed on the market. It is essential to consider the pros and cons of personal swimming pool ownership.




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