Should we buy an in ground or an above ground
pool?
Choosing between an in-ground and above-ground pool depends
on budget, space and preference. Before buying either one, you need to know what
you can afford, how big you want it to be and how much it will cost to maintain.
Both styles have advantages and drawbacks, but once they're installed, you're
sure to have hours of enjoyment from either style.
Besides
picking the style of pool, you also can choose among a wide range of
accessories. You can add slides, steps, diving boards, decorative lighting,
solar covers, awnings and many other items. Certainly two accessories you want
to be certain to include are a heater - solar, gas or both - and a pool vacuum.
Both of these are almost essential to pleasurable pool
ownership.
Many owners build decks or patios around their
pools to make the leisure space more practical. Some cover the pool with an
enclosure so it can be used year-round. Discuss the countless options with your
builder and make sure he is clear about what you want. Be aware, though, the
more accessories you add, the higher the price.
What is the most important thing to keep in mind
when considering a pool?
When installing a pool, safety should be foremost in
any owner's mind. Nearly all municipalities have laws dictating what kind of
protective barriers are needed around a pool to keep people from swimming
unsupervised, limiting the risk of drowning. Most building codes require a
six-foot fence that isn't easy for children to climb. Gates should have a lock,
as should any door from the house that leads to the pool area. You also can
install an alarm on the door that goes off when it's opened unexpectedly. A pool
also should have a strong cover to keep children out. Floating pool alarms and
self-closing gates make the pool area safer as well. Check your local
regulations regarding pools.
Are pools a lot of work?
When you buy a pool, plan on spending lots of time on
maintenance. In colder climates, you have to prepare the pool for winter and get
it ready for swimming in the spring. You also have to constantly monitor the
quality of the water, adding chemicals as needed so swimmers have a clean,
refreshing experience. Keep the pool clean to ease strain on the filter. If
you're not into spending lots of time taking care of the pool, hire someone to
do the work. Especially with an in-ground pool, you'll want regular visits
year-round for cleaning and to ensure that the pool is stable during the dormant
months. Remember, you can find someone to build and maintain your pool right
here on the Home Improvement Hotline!
What type of materials are used to build an in
ground pool?
In-ground pools can be built using three kinds of
material: vinyl, fiberglass and concrete. One advantage of an in-ground pool is
that it lets you create your own custom shape depending on the layout of your
back yard. In-ground pools usually are more expensive than above-ground because
of the extra effort needed to prep your yard for
installation.
Fiberglass pools are more expensive to install
than concrete or vinyl-lined pools. The one-piece fiberglass shell is dropped
into an excavated hole. Fiberglass may be a better choice in areas affected by
earthquakes since the material flexes easily. Another advantage is lower
maintenance. Fiberglass pools require fewer chemicals, and less brushing to keep
clean.
Concrete pools can be custom built to fit your needs
and the space available. Concrete pools take a bit longer to build since there
is more work involved. Gunite is a variation of concrete that gives pools a
unique look. Gunite is sprayed onto a wire or mesh frame, allowing for even more
shape options.
