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Planning for an In Ground Swimming Pool

• Zoning restriction.  Verify that you have the most up to date zoning and building restrictions for swimming pool and ask your local building department how the permit process is handled.  Also ask about regulation on fencing and barriers, pool depth requirements for diving boards, set-backs, and proximity to utility lines.

• Pool shapes, size, and depth.  Simple geometric shapes (squares, rectangles, circles, and ovals) are the best for complimenting a landscape setting and enhance the appearance of typical residential lots.  It is difficult to incorporate unusual swimming pool shapes into most homes without overwhelming the rest of the landscape.  However, odd shapes pools may be used to integrate natural features of your property.

• On going expenditures.  The cost for pool chemicals, average from $50-$100 per month depend on your climate, pool size, and frequency of use.  Equipment lifespan vary tremendously by brand and quality.  Other elements such as proper water chemistry and location of pump equipment can affect lifespan.  Pump locates at the pool level last longer than the one that sit higher and have to pump (push) water.

• Pool patio.  When drawing up swimming pool building plan, make sure to include extra space around the pool for a deck or paved area surrounding all sides of the pool.  The pool side area provides easy access to the pool for safety reason, minimize the amount of dirt entering the water, and catches over spills which would otherwise caused the surrounding area to become waterlogged.  As a rule of thumb, the total poolside area should be approximately equal to the pool and should be at least 5-8 feet wide.  Remember to include a safety fence around the outside of the patio too.