Pools

On a hot summer day, having a swimming pool can feel like the greatest invention in the world. Many people balk at the idea of swimming pools due to the price, which is fair as they are expensive to build. The average cost for a contractor to construct a pool for you is approximately $40 000. However, building your own swimming pool can help cut down the cost and will create a space for your family to enjoy some summer fun.

Strategies

Whether you are hiring a contractor or building the pool yourself, begin by looking at different pool designs, and figure out what type of pool you want and the dimensions. There are many different shapes, such as rectangular or kidney shaped, and types, such as above ground or in-ground. You also need to check to see if you require a permit to build the pool. If a permit is required, make sure to obtain all the necessary clearances and permits before you begin construction. Once you have the measurements of the pool, you can begin digging the hole. For the plumbing installation, you will probably need to call a professional. Depending on your permit, it may not even be legal to do your own plumbing. After the plumbing is complete, install the light niche, pour the concrete collar, and backfill around the pool. Set up the coping track which will hold the liner in place, install the sand or concrete on the floors and the slopes, and set up the pump and the filter. Lastly, clean the pool, install the gaskets, hang the liner in place and fill the pool with water.

Key Information

There are many different types of pools you can choose from. Above ground pools are the cheapest and easiest construction option. They are usually made from prefabricated kits which amateurs should be able to put together, although using a professional to build the pool is still common. There are also fibreglass pools, obviously constructed from fibreglass reinforced plastic, which is moulded into the shape of a basin. Vinyl lined in-ground pools are structurally similar to above ground pools but have the appearance of an in-ground pool. The liner will need to be replaced after every 10 years. The most popular pool design in the United States are gunite pools, largely because they can be built in any size or shape and have strong durability. Although similar to gunite pools, poured concrete pools are much harder to construct. All of these pools rely on the same basic filtering and plumbing systems.

Essential Tools

You will need a pool filter to help clean your pool. The law in most regions dictates that all water in a pool must pass through a filter. There are many different types of filters and skimmers to choose from to best suit the needs of your pool. Filters and skimmers will keep your water clean. You will also need chlorine. Chlorine is the most common chemical used to keep swimming pools bacteria free. You will need to keep an eye on the pool’s chlorine and other chemical levels, and balance them when necessary. Other things you will need include: a hand skimmer to remove leaves and other debris, a vacuum to clean the pool liner, and a pool cover, which can help save you money on heating costs.