A lot of people in the US imagine putting in a backyard pool, something for summer days when you just need to cool off or have people over. It seems like it would be great for relaxing without ever needing to leave your house. It is expensive for its construction, requires periodic upkeep, and is accompanied by safety regulations. Here in this guide, we shall discuss what it is really like owning a pool. We shall examine costs involved, upkeep requirements, laws covering safety, lifestyle advantages, and how it increases the value of a property.
The Initial Investment – What Homeowners Can Expect
Pool installation is a large undertaking. Your first decision is whether you should get an in-ground or above-ground pool. In-ground pools are dug in a pit in the ground. They are lovely and durable. However, an in-ground pool is costly. It costs between $35,000 and $65,000 to put in an in-ground pool. Some cost even more if you would like an exact design or add-on features.
Above-ground pools are less expensive. These are located above ground level and are less physically demanding to set up. Most above-ground pools range in price between $3,000-$10,000. Above-ground pools are not as durable as in-ground pools, but they are a great option for people with minimal money.
You may also have other things you would like to add to your pool. Some heaters can cost between $1,500 and $5,000. There are pool covers that can cost between $500 and $2,500. Decks and patios around the pool look wonderful. These can cost between $5,000 and more. Lights, a spa, or a fancy waterfall are more expensive.
Where you are can make construction costs for a pool vary. In warm states such as Alhambra or Escondido, there are trusted pool builders, so costs may be lower. Building pools gets pricey in areas with hard soil or colder climates. You’ve got machinery costs going up when digging through tough ground or dealing with frost lines messing with installations.
Ongoing Maintenance and Seasonal Care
Then you have a pool which you must take care of. Swimming pools are always supposed to be clean. You should have safe pool water for swimming. There are only two types of pool water: chlorine and saltwater.
Chlorine pools are standard. You have to put in chemicals so the water is clean. That means you have to check in on the water a lot and add chlorine when you need to. Chlorine kills bacteria but is rough on your eyes and skin.
Saltwater pools produce chlorine from salt with a special device. It is softer water. It costs more at the onset to install a saltwater system, but you end up paying less for chemicals in the long run.
It is essential to clean the pool. You should use a skimmer to take out leaves and dirt. You should brush the floor and walls of the pool. Your filters and pumps should operate daily in order for the water to remain clean. Some individuals rent a pool service for assistance. It may rent for $80-$150 per month.
You'll also pay year in and year out for chemicals, for water for the pool, and for electricity for the pool. Most families pay between $1,200 and $1,800 per year for in-ground pools. Above-ground pools are cheaper.
Pools for cold regions should close up in winter. That means draining out the water, introducing special chemicals, and covering up the pool. You reopen the pool in spring. These operations can range between $300 and $600 every year if you opt to pay for them.
Safety and Compliance Regulations
Pools are dangerous, especially for young children. That is why laws are in place in an attempt to protect everyone. Most towns and municipalities even have laws for pool owners. These laws may require a pool fence. Such a fence should be no less than four feet in height. Automatic closure and locking should be a requirement for the gates.
Some areas also need pool alarms. These alarms are noisy when someone goes into the pool without permission. Some cities like Alhambra also enact further legislation regarding what location where a pool can be installed. Homeowners are responsible for complying with local codes for buildings. These can include forms and inspections. If you are confused, you can hire trusted Alhambra Pool Builders, who can help obtain permits.
These safety regulations are essential. It keeps your neighbors and family safe. It also decreases the chances of you having an accident. Most insurance providers request proof that you comply with all safety regulations for a pool before issuing you home insurance.
Pools as a Lifestyle Investment
A pool is not about money. It can improve life in a million different ways. Families can remain near each other outdoors with a pool. Happy children are children who are swimming. Adults can swim or exercise in the pool.
Having a pool is convenient for entertaining friends. Pool parties and BBQs are classic summer fun things. Swimming’s good exercise, too. It helps kids burn energy while giving older people low-impact movement options without harming joints.
For others, pool enjoyment and memories are worth paying for and keeping up. A pool is a wonderful place for making a home a memorable setting for friends and family.
Do Swimming Pools Raise Property Values?
Everyone wonders if a pool is going to raise their home's value. Answer: It depends. In sunny areas such as Escondido, there is a desire for a pool. There are people out there who are willing to pay a premium for a pool-equipped home. In those locations, a pool is worth up to 5% in a homeowner's value, if constructed by experienced Escondido Pool Builders.
In colder states, it is different. Some buyers do not want a pool because it is a lot of work. They worry about the cost of keeping the pool clean and safe. In some areas, a pool might make it harder to sell your home. If the pool is old or damaged, buyers may even ask for it to be removed.
It is best not to consider a pool an investment in raising the value of your home. Instead, real estate professionals recommend enjoying a pool by taking proper care of it. A pool that is safe, clean, and appealing is less likely to add value to your property. However, it is best not to view a pool as a means for you to make a financial gain from your property.
After all, owning a pool in the USA is a thrilling experience. Constructing a pool is costly, as is keeping it up. There are safety laws to uphold, and man-hours spent in keeping it clean and repairing it. There is enjoyment as well, exercise, and happy moments spent around a pool. If you are thinking about owning a pool in your residence, do a proper cost versus benefits study.
