Making a Splash: swimming pool do's and don't's

A swimming pool can be a great lifestyle asset in summer. It can also add to the value of your property. But before the heat overwhelms you, or you get starry-eyed about money - give some thought to the attention you need to pay to the acquisition/installation of a pool and the maintenance required thereafter.

Pools can certainly add aesthetic appeal, property value, and a welcome cooling down on a hot day, but think about what you want from the addition of a pool in your life. Are you choosing to upgrade your property or looking to purchase a house with a pool already in place. Why do you value a pool? Is it for the kids? Exercise or entertaining? Or simply to beautify your outdoor area? These considerations will possibly determine shape and depth, and any special features.

Things to look out for:

• Building in your own pool from scratch can be an intrusive process for all in the neighbourhood. Make sure you've spoken to your neighbours before going in with a bulldozer! Don't underestimate the project. It's a big project that can take up to 8 - 12 weeks or longer. During this time, your backyard or garden will be in noisy chaos. You'll need to plan for this commotion, especially if you have children, pets or you work from home.
• Whether you choose go with a generic format or customised design, remember that following a popular trend might prove expensive in the long-run when you have to eventually upgrade or remove an aging and out-of-fashion design. Look upon your pool as a solid, lasting acquisition that is easy to maintain, and not just as a fancy accessory to your home.
• Always work with professionals who can advise on style, materials, and best maintenance options. The cheapest option is not always a good route to go with swimming pools. They present a large body of water and cracks or early deterioration issues can cause real headaches. The pool contractor will have a direct impact on the quality and longevity of your swimming pool, so choose carefully. Do your research. And get several estimates. 
• A pool is not only expensive to install, but carries costs going forward with regard to continuous maintenance. Keeping the water free of pollutants is important. Ensuring your retainer walls are strong and well-maintained is an ongoing responsibility. Overflow outlets must be kept clear, paving around the pool must be inspected for cracking or uneven appearance, and the clarity of the water is a high priority both health-wise and visually.
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Things to keep in mind:

• Make sure you know about the relevant municipal rules and bylaws regarding private garden pools. You will have to comply with local building and safety regulations - and you need to have some idea of these before you begin your project, or even when you are purchasing a ready-made pool with your new house. Plans are required for a pool installation, which must be approved by the local municipality.
• The materials you choose are key to both durability and maintenance, and these may depend on the environment. Concrete, fibreglass, gunite or vinyl. There are several choices and it's best to get professional advice. 
• One of the best aspects of a pool - and which seriously adds to the appeal - is the design and development of the surroundings. Whether you want your pool as a feature in your garden, or as a private place discreetly hidden by foliage, your pool must suit the landscape and your lifestyle. Terraces can enhance, and flowered trellises can hide and create a place of quiet reflection. Rocks strategically placed can give a pool a sense of natural tranquillity. Build a vision, make it your own.
• The place where the swimming pool will be situated is important. Probably situating it higher than the house is not a good idea, unless you have very secure retainer walls. Flat areas below the house are best, even if the area you choose does not reflect the most aesthetic appeal. The flow of access from the house to the pool should be as easy as possible, keeping it in good view while ensuring it's not an obstacle to entertaining. Guests falling into the pool at inopportune moments is not a good idea. 
• Security is always a major issue. Make sure you meet regulations with regard to fencing and pool cover. It doesn't matter whether you have children or pets, you will need to ensure safety standards are met - because you can never be certain that someone else's child or pet may wander into your pool environment. Safety includes other aspects such as: secure drain covers, perimeter fencing, and anti-slip tiles. 
• If you should be lucky enough to have an indoor pool, then you must take care of the ongoing humidity problems. The complex mix of heat, humidity, and chemicals will require the use of a good dehumidifier. It is vital to ensure that the pool itself, and all mechanical workings remain as safe and efficient as possible.
• Maintenance cannot be neglected. If you do not care for your pool regularly, it will end up in bad shape fairly quickly. Cleaning and attention on a weekly or bi-weekly basis is highly recommended. The area surrounding the pool must also be taken care of is also important - paying particular attention to the potential arrival of ants, which can do considerable damage to your pool over time. You will need to know how to test the pH level, clean filters, shock the pool, add water, etc, or at least have a regular maintenance service to take care of these aspects.

Leapfrog Property Group

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