Building a pool in your backyard can be a great way to enjoy the outdoors and stay cool in the heat of the summer. However, there are a number of cost considerations that you should be aware of before starting the process.
How to build a pool in your backyard
From the cost of the pool itself to additional costs such as labor and materials, there are a number of things to take into consideration when trying to determine the cost of building a pool in your backyard. In this article we will take an in-depth look at the potential costs and considerations that you should be aware of:
- Cost of the pool itself
- Additional costs such as labor and materials
- Potential costs and considerations
Assess the size and shape of your backyard
When considering the cost of building a pool in your backyard, one of the main factors to consider is the size and shape of your backyard. Different backyard shapes can affect the type of pool you choose, what materials are needed, and how much it will cost.
If you have a larger backyard, then you have more options available for pool sizes and shapes. In general, larger pools tend to be more expensive than smaller ones due to the amount of materials needed and labor required. Furthermore, with large pools, there will likely be an increased need for additional features such as steps or seating areas which can add to the overall cost.
On the other hand, if your yard is small then you may want to opt for a simple rectangular design that makes use of all available space without taking up too much space in your yard. These smaller pools tend to require less material but often more attention when it comes to creating an aesthetically pleasing design that will fit within any space restrictions you may have.
Other factors associated with cost include:
- what type of pump or filter system you install
- decking or paving restrictions/materials used such as tile or stone pavers
- landscaping considerations around the pool area itself such as fencing or planting trees/shrubs which adds an extra element of value in terms of privacy and aesthetic appeal while also adding another layer of safety considerations.
These factors also affect both installation costs as well as ongoing maintenance costs involved in maintaining your pool over time.
Research the cost of materials
Before you start working on your backyard pool, it’s important to do your research and determine the cost of materials and installation. You should have a budget in place before you even start looking at designs.
Resurfacing a pool will require you to account for pavers, gunite, plaster, tile and coping. Depending on the size of the project and the material options chosen, resurfacing a pool can range from as low as $2-4K to more than $30K. Additionally, some homeowners might want to consider making an investment in water features such as waterfalls, custom slides or creative lighting. These features will add to both the cost of materials and installation labor.
You should also factor in the costs associated with the necessary furniture for a backyard pool such as lounge chairs and umbrellas. If you decide to include a gazebo or decking around your swimming pool, then those materials will also need to be accounted for in your budget plan. Furthermore, if you intend on including plumbing components such as lights or fountains then those expenses will need to be taken into consideration as well.
Finally, you’ll need experts who are qualified enough to perform various tasks required when building a swimming pool— such as digging trenches or laying tiles— so make sure that these professionals are included in your budget evaluation process too!
Hire a professional contractor
Hiring a professional contractor to build your pool is probably the most expensive option, but it will likely provide the most quality assurance. Hiring someone to complete your pool project ensures that all aspects of building the pool are followed correctly, from excavating the soil and pouring concrete to wiring for pumps, heaters and other appliances.
A reputable service provider should be licensed and insured, as this gives you peace of mind that you will get what you pay for. Before selecting your contractor, make sure you get at least three bids from different companies so that you can compare prices. A good contractor should be able to provide an itemized breakdown of projected costs that includes labor, permit fees, excavation and grading expenses, material delivery costs and any other associated miscellaneous charges.
Some contractors may offer payment plans or financing options in order to reduce the financial burden of building a pool in your backyard.
Design Considerations
Building a pool in your backyard requires careful consideration of a variety of design factors. The size and shape of the pool, along with the type of materials used to build it, will all influence the cost of construction. Additionally, other factors such as the type of filter, the type of pump, and the landscaping around the pool need to be taken into account.
Let’s take a closer look at these design considerations:
Choose the type of pool
The type of pool you choose will be the most important consideration when it comes to designing your dream backyard. The two most popular types are above-ground pools and in-ground pools. Each type has benefits and drawbacks that should be considered when making your decision:
- Above-ground pools are usually the more budget-friendly option, and they are also very versatile because they often require less assembly and can be constructed fairly quickly. However, above-ground pools can’t be easily customized, so you’ll need to select one that already meets your needs.
- In-ground pools require more time and money to build, but they offer a lot more versatility when it comes to design elements. In addition, the longevity of the pool itself is much longer with an in-ground option since above ground pools have shorter life spans due to wear from weather and water levels. Additionally, investing in an in-ground pool provides a return on investment for many buyers as this type of pool adds value when it comes time to sell your home.
Consider the safety features
Safety features are an important consideration when planning to build a pool in your backyard. These features prevent accidents, injuries and even fatalities from occurring when swimming in the pool. Some of these features are required by law, while others should be adopted for any well-planned pool.
Pool fences or barriers: Pool fences or barriers will enclose the pool, creating a separate area for swimming activities and restricting access to unauthorized people. All states require at least a four-foot-high barrier that completely encloses the pool area and has no access points unless equipped with a locking gate. Other requirements may include specific distances between the fence and water’s edge as well as certain construction materials acceptable for use as fencing material.
Safety covers: It is important to have a safety cover to cover your pool when not in use, whether it is installed permanently or when it is removed from the pool every time after use. This prevents accidental falls into the water and ensues safety for anyone who does not know how to swim yet. Safety covers must lock with multiple latches to meet local requirements for preventing possible access by unauthorized people, such as children or pets, without supervision.
Other safety considerations: When building a backyard pool there can be many other safety considerations such as:
- Guardrails on steps leading into or out of the pool.
- Rounded edges on steps entering into or leaving out of the water instead of sharp angles/corners that could cause injuries due to impact.
- Adequate lighting in areas identified as “nighttime pools”.
- Installing special window treatments in bathrooms or other areas that have direct views of pools which would conceal them from view even if bystanders do not use surface blinds/ curtains.
- Anti-entrapment devices installed with plumbing lines connected higher than 8 feet depths so that any unexpected entrapment situations can be abated quickly.
- Specific details about ladders leading into pools (materials required).
- Proper placement and maintenance of skimmers used within pools.
- Suitable compliant gutter systems around pools used for preventing overflow incidents during heavy rains.
- Properly rated and designed drains around pools used safely instead of allowing stagnant water buildup which could lead up to dangerous conditions like electrocution.
- Checklists related to uniforming occupants before they swim/ participate within family gatherings/ parties around pools.
- Enacting some rules associated with appropriate surveillance whether done by lifeguards especially when children are present while swimming in either public/ semi-public/ private commercial spaces.
- Related to ancestral wishes enjoyed within comfortable surroundings like backyard ponds/ fountains etc.
Consider the maintenance requirements
One major factor to consider when deciding how to build a pool in your backyard is the maintenance requirements and associated costs. Providing adequate maintenance is key to ensuring you get the most out of your pool and that it remains safe, clean and enjoyable for years to come.
Pool systems are composed of different components which must be routinely serviced and maintained in order to keep them running well. Pool size, water circulation system, water treatment system, plumbing equipment, filtration system and the surrounding area all play a role in the maintenance required. Depending on what type of pool you install, regular services such as cleaning, vacuuming and brushing may be necessary.
Periodic service from qualified professionals may also be helpful in maintaining a properly functioning pool system. Professional services can include replacing or repairing broken parts or providing advice about proper maintenance for specific types of pools. In addition, some homeowners may choose to use robotic cleaners that automate certain cleaning processes such as vacuuming or scrubbing walls and floors.
The cost of these services depends on the complexity of the job and how long it takes to complete but it’s important to remember that hiring specialists can save money in the long term by decreasing repair costs due to improved efficiency. Counting with good professionals will provide peace of mind that things are getting done right which will contribute greatly towards maximizing return on investment over time.
Building the Pool
Building a pool in your backyard can be a great way to increase the value of your home as well as provide a place to relax and enjoy the summer months. However, it can be a major investment and it’s important to understand the costs involved in building a pool.
This section will go over the costs associated with building a pool in your backyard:
Prepare the ground
In order to build a pool in your backyard, the ground will first need to be prepared accordingly. This means that soil samples will need to be taken and tested for a variety of factors such as soil composition, drainage rates and fissures. Working with a professional is recommended for these steps since it ensures that appropriate safety and legal regulations will be closely followed.
The ground preparation process should also include any leveling or grading of the area required in order to achieve the desired finished shape. Depending on the size and style of your swimming pool, this portion may require additional excavation or filling of the target site. Sand or gravel may be added in order to construct strong foundations before adding any additional components involved in your pool’s construction.
Once the site is prepared for construction, varying steel equipment such as rebar, pipes and other structural elements will then need to be installed accordingly. These pieces are then used as the basis for concrete forms that provide added stability as well as providing strength against large amounts of pressure from water and other environmental factors. Professional installation is highly recommended since these elements must support a large amount of weight in addition to standing up against wear from weathering and water movements within the pool itself.
Install the pool structure
Once you have your permits, it is time to install the pool structure. Professional pool builders will assess the chosen pool site and begin to construct or assemble a steel or polymer frame, which will be used as the foundation of your swimming pool. With appropriate tools and safety equipment, you can even attempt to build the frame yourself!
The professional installation process will include:
- Backfilling, where dirt that was previously excavated is put back into place, allowing for further customization of landscape features during construction
- Prefabrication or onsite assembly of the frame made of prominent metals such as galvanized steel or stainless steel
- Measuring and cutting of kindling wood that are often used between walls and floors to provide insulation against thermal transfer or erosion
- Installation of grounding wire, conduit piping and other essential wiring in preparation for plumbing
- Securing braces around the frame sturdily
- Installation of gunite (special concrete mixture sprayed onto an existing structure) and/or fiberglass over the frame in order to form a strong shell
Install the pool liner
Once the framing is complete, it is time to install the pool liner. The liner is a sheet of either vinyl or rubber that lines the walls of your pool and will keep water from seeping through its sides. Installing a pool liner can be both tricky and time consuming but following the right steps can ensure a successful install.
Before installing the liner, it is important to check it for any rips or tears. Small cuts or holes can be patched with a repair kit specific for your type of liner material.
- Starting at one end, one edge of the pool at a time lay out and straighten the unrolled folded liners onto its floor sloping down from ground level in all directions. Secure excess fabric near the wall on stakes utilizing heavy objects around the outside perimeter and keep it weighted down until the securement process begins around the entire perimeter.
- Make sure to account for extra inches as to not tear when wrapping around edges either with overhang or tucking inside crevices as needed with extra masonry material such as concrete blocks or pavers in areas that need additional support against sitting rain water, back-fill filtration equipment and any other necessities into newly created compartments created by liner.
- Install skimmer box on wall making sure cover plate sits flush above final grade (level).
- Secure sidewalls on final grade, straighten the seams, expand excess fabric into corners making sure dips and protrusions are filled; if necessary use foam wedges and plastic clips to create suction an seal all crevices and tight spots; level off exterior surfaces while constantly referring back to manufacturer’s specifications trimming excess fabric where necessary along installation progression allowing tight spaces around plastic covers securing them snug to position ensuring tight fit between wall tracks and frame support bars; once fully secure tiles may then be installed accordingly filling gaps between liner keeping material tight buttressing wall softening protruding edges creating seamless bond among hardware sand masonry materials for aesthetically pleasing look completing what should be your greatest new backyard addition safely soundly reliable ready for many years use entertainment family reunions summer festive celebrations delight!
Finishing Touches
After the basics of how to build a pool in your backyard are in place, the fun part begins – adding all of the finishing touches to your outdoor oasis. From outdoor furniture to landscaping, diving boards and beyond, the customization options for a backyard pool are truly limitless.
Let’s look at some of the options and their associated costs:
Install the decking
Installing the decking is the final step in creating the perfect pool area. This is a critical aspect of your build that not only adds beauty and style to your yard, but also helps keep your pool water clean, safe, and warm. Decking material options vary from natural wood materials to composite decks with different textures and colors to fit your landscape design wishes. Sometimes used for custom-molded above ground pools or diy builds, this type of feature can transform your backyard space into an inviting retreat.
The cost for decking installation depends on square footage of the project as well as materials used (i.e., solid wood, pavers, concrete), and any accessories such as benches or railings which can add value and aesthetic appeal to the space. It is important to consider the need for skirting – which creates a more formal barrier – especially if you have small children or pets in your home environment who may enjoy playing near the pool area. Professionally installed pavers can range in price from $6-$20 a square foot; however natural stone may be up to five times more expensive than concrete options if you prefer something more luxurious.
It’s always best practice to hire an experienced contractor that specializes in swimming pools to fully understand how much time will be needed for completing decking installation for a proper budget allocation and estimated timeline for completion of each step in building your desired poolscape.
Add the filtration system
Creating a pool that is beautiful, inviting and also safe should be your goal when considering the installation of a pool in your backyard. The addition of a suitable filtration system to the overall design is a must for removing dirt, debris, and bacteria from the pool water. Choosing the right filtration system can save you time and money over the life of your pool, so it’s important to research different products before making a decision.
Filtration systems are available in three distinct types; cartridge, DE (diatomaceous earth), and sand. Each has its own advantages as well as drawbacks – depending on what you’re looking for – so understanding how they work can make all the difference in selecting which one is best-suited for you.
Cartridge filters collect water using large pieces of fabric or plastic held together by circular frames. They use their own filtration element to keep debris from getting into the water, requiring more frequent cleaning but with less backwashing than sand or DE filters. Another advantage is that cartridges have fewer moving parts than either Diatomaceous Earth or sand systems due to their simplicity of design and maintenance requirements.
Diatomaceous Earth (DE) filters break down very small particles that get into a swimming pool’s water system by trapping them inside hundreds of tiny woven fibers within a grid-like structure that prevents them from re-entering. This efficient multi-level filtering system significantly reduces backwashing needs while adding clarity to your swimming pools’s water quality.. While similar in operation to sand filters with regard to easy maintenance requirements and traits related backwashing needs DE filters boast superior efficiency related capturing partials within 5 – 10 microns vs 20 -40 microns associated with sand filter use – thus providing up to twice as much effectiveness based on dirt/particle size classification evaluations!
Finally, it’s important to recognize that absorption rates for cellular capture begins reducing once above 30% capacity build up occurs within any filter vessel. Therefore systematic annual replacement process such as cartridge migration from matching sized cartridges (e.g quarter rotate) becomes necessary if greater degrees of efficiency – related to capturing dirt fragments below 10 mcr – become the desired end objective during operation!
Sand Filters operate by passing raw pool water through layers of specially graded filter media or ‘sand’. Particles are then trapped between grains until subsequently flushed out as backwash flow direction reverses along pressurized zone entailed via existing delivery pumpset power ratings associated with individual installation requirements! Therefore adequate cycle times must be employed if satisfactory results desires materialize; 6–9 hour cycles between 12–18 hrs during ‘peak’ season expectations provide suitable operating practices! Likewise replacement cycles typically occur bi–annually; just remember the usual rule-of-thumb being 20% replacement rate applies after far earlier intervals!
Add the lighting
Once your pool has been finished and you are ready to enjoy it, it is time to add the perfect lighting to enhance the overall effect. Depending on your preference and budget, there are several types of lighting options available.
Pool lighting can be either permanent or temporary, as well as a number of different electrical alternatives – with everything from underwater lights for a more dramatic effect, to heaters for winter swimming.
Underwater lights provide a stunning look that adds ambiance night or day. If your pool is made out of concrete or other solid material, the placement of underwater lights requires special considerations due to how energy travels through the various materials so make sure you consult with an expert before you attempt to install any type of permanent light in the pool yourself.
If you don’t want to break ground by installing permanent fixtures in your pool, there are several temporary options on the market. These can range from ordinary light bulbs in waterproof casing to advanced LED systems that create a dance-like effect under water. Solar-powered landscape lighting is one choice that will not only help illuminate your pool area but also conserve energy by using natural sunlight instead of electricity.
To make sure your setting truly stands out, consider adding some decorations around your pool such as palm trees or even floating candles or lanterns on a calm evening night – whatever suits your style! The finishing touches will help complete the perfect atmosphere and leave lasting memories for years down the line.
Maintenance
Building a pool in your backyard can be a great way to add value to your home, but once you have it built you must consider the maintenance costs associated with it. One of the most important aspects of maintaining the pool is keeping it clean, which may involve a range of activities such as vacuuming and replastering. You also need to ensure your pool is safe by checking the pH balance and regularly checking for cracks and leaks.
Let’s take a closer look at the other costs associated with pool maintenance:
Regularly clean the pool
Maintaining a backyard pool is an important step in ensuring that your pool can be enjoyed safely. Regularly cleaning the pool is an essential part of good pool maintenance and will ensure that your swimming experience is both safe and enjoyable.
There are several steps involved in regularly cleaning a backyard pool. First, you should always remove all debris from the water. This includes leaves, sticks, bugs, and other contaminants that may have found their way into the water. When removing this debris, it’s important to use a skimmer net or brush to collect any dirt or debris stuck on the bottom or sides of the pool liner.
In addition to removing large debris, it’s also important to regularly filter your pool water in order to remove any small particles floating in the water column such as pollen, algae spores and bacteria. To do this effectively you should consider investing in a good filter system such as sand filters or cartridge filters which will help reduce contamination levels significantly so your swimming experience is safe and enjoyable.
Finally, regularly testing your pool’s chemical balance helps keep irritation caused by too much chlorine at bay and ensures healthy levels of pH and alkalinity for smooth swimming all summer long!
Test the water chemistry
A key element to maintaining your swimming pool is regularly testing the water chemistry. This involves verifying that the pH balance, alkalinity, and other components of the pool’s chemistry are balanced and correct for swimming. Insufficiently balanced water can leave swimmers feeling uncomfortable or cause skin irritation and other issues.
It is recommended to use a test kit to periodically check your pool’s water chemistry levels at least once a week, but more frequent testing may be necessary depending on use levels, climate, area pollen counts – all of which can affect a pool’s chemical balance more quickly than usual.
Test kits are available from most pool supply stores or online retailers and any major brand should provide comparable quality results. An important part of any swimming pool is keeping accurate records of water testing results over time so that you can best understand how each element interacts with others in your particular environment and when adjustments may be needed to maintain optimal conditions.
Additionally, it may be advisable to bring a sample of your pool’s water to an authoritative laboratory for an analysis in order to get an accurate reading on all components relevant for proper water quality such as calcium hardness and CYA (Stabilizer/Conditioner) levels as well as more precise measurements of pH balance, alkalinity etc.
Test strips are readily available for purchase but accurate color comparisons for some must be made against physical reference sheets provided without much variation in human or environmental sources providing the vaguest ranges which do not reflect actual parameters some chemical additives must remain within – comparing observations against a reference sheet will never deviate from expiration dates like packaged tests often do because they lack accuracy overall dependent on age or outside sources regardless of preservation techniques used after bottling/packaging.
Monitor the pool equipment
Pool maintenance is an important part of owning a residential pool. Regular monitoring and maintenance of the pool equipment will help to keep the swimming pool and its surroundings clean, safe, and healthy.
Pool pumps, filters, chlorinators, auto-vacuum cleaners, and heaters should be inspected on a regular basis for optimal performance and cleanliness.
The filter should be cleaned periodically.
