Begin with a Family Plan

Planning a family pool should invite input from all family members, encouraging ideas from teens and young children. If everyone has a chance to participate in the planning, no one will be unhappy with the result. Consider the current ages of the children and plan for the pool's future use. Will pre-teens swim laps? Might Mom and Dad enjoy adding a spa for exercise of hydrotherapy? Will the family entertain frequently? Has a budget been established? Recent pool purchasers agree that a family conference held beforehand, not only improves family relationships, but also adds to the anticipation, enjoyment and satisfaction experienced by all users.

The Type and Size of the Pool

Often the size of the yard, the types of pools in the neighborhood and the amount of money you want to commit will dictate the pool you'll buy. Pool owners of all types and sizes say that it really doesn't matter which pool ends up in your backyard. If it holds water, it'll be perfect!

Swimming pool ownership is about fun, not about type or size. It's about togetherness for family and friends, and sometimes showing off. Owning a pool is also about cooling off in hot weather, exercise and downright good, healthy outdoor activities for everyone. The most important decision you make is to have a pool, not whether it shoud be X or Y feet long.

The Placement of the Pool

This is not an easy decision. Everyone may have an idea as to where the pool might look best, but no one can be absolutely certain. Parents sometimes insist that the pool should be right outside of the kitchen window so that they can keep an eye on the children and see everything that's happening in the pool area.

An owner of a large property may want to have a more comprehensive site plan developed by an architect. On the other hand, when a property is small, the owner may not have much choice. But, when there is no site plan and when the property affords the owner several locations, recent pool purchasers generally agree that it was their pool builder or installer that had the best placement ideas. Even owners who felt that their yards were not level or those who perceived some disadvantage with the topography were pleasantly surprised when their pool builders came up with the right solutions.

Selecting the Right Pool Builder

There are good and bad pool builders Finding them may be as simple as finding houses with backyard pools and talking to the homeowners about their pool purchases and their satisfaction. In addition, you can find out about a pool builder's reputation by talking to the local Better Business Bureau. It doesn't hurt to talk to pool owners who have owned their pool for more than a few years. Their opinions regarding pool builders may be more beneficial because the initial euphoria has had a chance to mellow. A great recommendation from such an owner may prove to be best of all.

Think about Options

Today's pool buyer can select options from a big menu. Experts advise homeowners to do some of their own investigating before sitting down with a contractor. The areas to look into include lighting (both in and around the pool), pool finishes, tiles, decking materials, energy and time saving products, covers, cleaners and inground spas. Also, remember to find out about a pool house or cabana for your family and your guests. This is a good time to start planning the area around the pool. Landscape designers will tell you that there are right and wrong plants for a pool; experienced pool owners will agree. The wrong plant next to or near the pool or spa can be a problem, so always consult with a local landscape professional to get advice on the right plants and trees for your climate and your yard. If you would like to add extravagant landscaping features, inquire about waterfalls, ponds, lagoons and rock formations.