BLUE ICE POOL

For many people, adding spas and pools to their home is a luxury that can also seem like a necessity during the hot summer months. While a swimming pool may seem like a good idea, there are numerous things that should be considered before starting construction. That said, with the right research, tools and a good contractor, installing a pool or spa is far from impossible and can end up being as luxurious as imagined.

The first thing to consider before installing pools and spas is what swimming pool designs are best suited to your yard and lifestyle. If you have children, or like swimming laps for exercise, a large pool with diving board, shallow end and deep end might be the best option. If you are simply looking for a way to cool down in the summer, a smaller pool might suit you better. If you live somewhere that gets cold in the winter, a spa or hot tub can be a wonderful treat and may be more suited to your climate. The space you are putting it in is also an important consideration. While it may seem obvious that you will need a large yard to hold a large pool, there are options for smaller yards as well. Even if you have no yard at all, many hot tubs and spas can be installed in a deck or veranda, or on top of a flat roof. Depending on the size and design of your house, some can even be installed indoors.

Another thing to consider before you start building pools and spas is how much you are willing to pay. The cost of a pool depends on a number of factors, including the type of pool and the cost of the contractor. Contractors can charge vastly different rates and it is a good idea to shop around before committing to one. While it may be tempting to hire the cheapest contractor, their work will often reflect their rates, and the pool and hot tub parts may be of inferior quality. This does not necessarily mean that you should hire the most expensive contractor, either, but it may be a good idea to read reviews online and ask others who have used their pool service so you know in advance, what you are paying for.  Adding accessories like diving boards or swimming pool slides can increase the property of the pool and consequently, the property.

Many people prefer inground swimming pools and spas because they are less obtrusive, but above ground pools can be a good option if you are looking for something more affordable or are not completely committed to the idea of a having a pool. It may even be possible to sink an aboveground pool into the yard so it functions as an in-ground pool, without the extra cost. Basic aboveground pools such as the Intex Easy-Set Pool, which costs a mere $250, can be a great way to try out a pool to see if you use it. If you do, you may decide that it is worth investing in a larger, more elaborate in-ground pool.

If you already know that you are looking for luxury, inground pools are probably the best option. Resort style pools, such as those made by Infinity, offer controllable water flow, underwater lighting, jets and even hydro-massage features. Inground pool prices are $8,000 to $15,000 depending on the size and chosen features, however, an Infinity pool is no small investment.

Swimming pools and spas also come in a variety of materials to choose from. While plastic pools, fiberglass pools and tile pools are all standard, some companies have begun to reintroduce steel-walled pools. These offer a more affordable option in the short term, but over time they can rust, resulting in expensive repairs. Regardless of the type of material or style of pool you eventually choose, it is important to make sure that good construction and safety are a priority in all pools and spas that you install.