Top 10 Pool Buying Tips
Having a swimming pool in the backyard can completely overhaul your lifestyle, providing you with countless hours of fun in the sun however, we understand that it is a big decision that requires careful consideration. With that in mind, we’ve put together our top 10 ten buying tips to help you select a pool that will suit your budget, home, and swimming requirements.
1. Work out your budget
Before deciding on the style, design, and layout you want, the very first thing you should consider is your budget. Once you have established how much you can spend, you can select from the options available within your price range. Your pool builder will work with you to determine which style and design will work best in your backyard. There are many things that can contribute to overall cost of your pool such as lighting, cleaners, and accessories. When doing your research, ask how much it is for the pool you want plus any added extras.
2. Decide what your pool will be used for the most
Determining what your pool will be used for the most is an integral part of choosing the right pool. The intended purpose of your pool will influence the size, shape, and style that it will be. There are a few types of pools on the market that have been designed with different purposes in mind. For example, if you want a pool to use for relaxation, a plunge or swim spa might a good choice. If fitness is your motivation for purchasing a pool, a lap pool may be suited to you.
3. Location
To cut down costs, it may be tempting to choose a spot in your backyard that is the cheapest to install, however you should ask yourself if that is going to be the best place for your pool long term. If the location you have chosen is shady and surrounded by trees, it could end up costing you more in heating and cleaning in the long run. How much sun your pool gets throughout the day will affect how warm your pool water is. If you have heating for your pool, the cooler the water is, the more it will cost to get it to a bearable temperature. Its always a good idea to choose an area in your backyard that doesn’t have trees surrounding it, if leaves constantly fall into the pool, you will have to get them out regularly to prevent them from disrupting your equipment and chemical levels.
Some other things that you should consider when choosing the location of your pool:
• How you want your pool to look from inside your home
• Whether your pool will be highly exposed to wind
• Can you use an existing fence line as a part of your pool fencing to reduce costs?
• Ensure there are no pipes or cables in the ground where you want your pool to go. You can do this by getting a sitemap.
4. Ongoing costs
Some make the mistake of not factoring in the ongoing expenses involved with owning a swimming pool. Concrete pools for example need to be resurfaced every 10 to 15 years which costs an average of $10,000. Other types such as vinyl liner pools, require vinyl liner replacements every 5 to 10 years and they cost approximately $4,000. Fibreglass pools do not require resurfacing or replacing over the lifetime of the pool, making them a popular choice.
Some additional things to look for when deciding which type of swimming pool to choose:
• Which type uses the least chemicals?
• How much does it cost to run?
• Requires the least upkeep?
5. Factor in additional extras
When conducting your research, it is important to factor in additional extras that may not be included in your quote. Fencing, landscaping, paving, heating, and lighting are features that you can include in your pool area for an extra cost. If there are extras you would like for your pool, ask for them to be included in your quote. Some features such as self-cleaning pool systems cannot be added at later date. Ask you pool builder what options are available for your pool and decide which ones you do and don’t want.
6. The time of year you install your pool
When deciding on the time of year to install your pool, it may be tempting to wait until the summer season approaches, however this is peak season in the pool industry and it my be harder to get your pool installed exactly when you want it to be. In winter, pool companies are far less busy and generally offer added extras or discounts at this time, which can save you money. By having your pool installed in winter, it will be ready to go come summertime.
7. The look you are trying to create
Before purchasing your pool, you should think of the overall look you want to create for your backyard and how much space you are willing to sacrifice for your pool. If you want to transform your backyard into a tropical oasis, kidney shaped pools have soft, round edges and are ideal for complementing this style. If you are wanting something ultra-modern, rectangular shaped pools are contemporary and timeless.
8. Type of pool
Choosing the right type of pool can save you a substantial amount of time and money over its lifespan.
There are 3 main types of swimming pools here in Australia. They include:
• Vinyl liner pools
• Concrete pools
• Fibreglass pools
Vinyl liner pools are the cheapest initially to install, although the interior vinyl liner is susceptible to tears and punctures which is costly to replace.
Concrete pools offer flexibility when it comes to the depth of your pool and the style, however they are highly porous making the prone to algae and bacteria infestations. They are the most expensive to install and maintain.
Fibreglass pools cost more initially to install than vinyl liner pools, but they don’t need to be replaced or resurfaced over their lifetime. They interior surface is virtually nonporous making it algae and bacteria resistant. Fibreglass pools are the least time consuming and most cost-effective option on the market today.
9. Ensure your pool has extensive warranties
This is an important one. When buying a pool, make sure that it comes with a generous warranty. Many reputable pool companies offer lifetime warranties on their pool and their construction. This allows you to have peace of mind knowing that your pool is covered if anything unforeseen happens to your pool.
10. Qualified builder
Another vitally important tip. Ensure that you are using a licenced and insured pool builder that has extensive experience in the pool industry. Have a look at their work, customer references and reviews for feedback. If you chose to hire someone that is not qualified to cut down on costs, you should be aware of the major safety risks involved.
A swimming pool is a big purchase and you want to be sure that your hard-earned money is being invested in a superior quality pool. Our team here at Barrier Reef Pools are leaders in the pool industry and with over 30 years’ experience manufacturing and installing superior quality fibreglass pools, we are confident we can help you find the pool of your dreams. Call us today to organise your free onsite quote.
