Never Settle for a Home You Don't Love

Swimming pools are a great way to cool off whenever temperatures begin to rise. They can also offer hours of family fun and recreational activities. Swimming pools can add a lot to outdoor entertainment. There are more than 10.4 million residential swimming pools in the US. These run the gamut from basic above ground pools to custom in ground retreats. Custom swimming pools are a great option for homeowners who know what features they want in a swimming area. However, there are a few different things to consider when building a custom swimming pool.

Cost

One thing that homeowners should know before building a custom swimming pool is that it's likely to be more expensive than a standard pool. The costs can vary widely depending on the features that the homeowners are interested in. To put things into perspective, an above ground pool can cost as little as $1,500 while a custom concrete in-ground pool can easily cost upwards of $80,000. Installing a spa can easily cost anywhere from $5,000 to $8,000, a high end diving board can cost $1,000, and a simple waterfall is around $1,000. Budget should be considered carefully when coming up with a custom pool design. 

Building Time

Many homeowners find the idea of having a pool for the summer very attractive. However, they may want to start the designing and building process in the spring if they want the pool finished in time for the Fourth of July. Installation alone can take anywhere from two to five weeks. Permits must also be obtained before the building process begins and can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks to get. Excavating the area where the pool will be built can also take up to a couple of days. Things such as weather and other issues can delay the process as well. Homeowners should try to plan for some of these eventualities when building a custom pool.

Landscaping And Other Projects

While the homeowner's main focus may be on the design of their custom pool, it's important to remember the surrounding area. A custom pool will often require landscape changes as well additions such as perimeter fencing and seating areas. Homeowners should consider these features as well when they are coming up with a budget for the project. The final touches can also add to building time and delay the homeowner's enjoyment of their new pool.

A custom pool can be a great way to have fun in the sun. However, it can also be quite the undertaking. Custom pools can be very pricey so a well thought out budget is a must. Homeowners should also know that it can take weeks for their pool to be finished, especially if there are weather delays. Building a custom pool also involves other supplementary projects as well. Landscaping and other finishing touches are often necessary once the pool has been built.