Pools are beloved by families across the US. When the weather is hot, few things are as refreshing as a crystal clear pool. Even better is a personal pool in the backyard, which facilitates private relaxation and friendly gatherings. However, with personal ownership of a pool comes a lot of decision-making as well. Homeowners must navigate both the design and the vinyl pool installation, both of which require serious consideration.
To have the best experience installing and using a personal pool, homeowners should spend time carefully evaluating each decision. The planning stage is a big responsibility, but it is also a chance for creativity that will enhance the final project. Here is what homeowners should know before installing a pool in Maryland, including the considerations for design that will have a long-lasting impact on their new backyard feature.
What Kind of Pool Do You Want?
When installing a pool on their property, the first major decision of most homeowners will be choosing between in-ground pools and above ground pools. While both provide a pleasant way to enjoy the water, the choice between these two options will drastically impact many of the other decisions to be made. The main differences between above and in-ground pools are the freedom in design and the property value.
Depending on the landscape of a homeowner’s specific backyard, certain shapes or types may be more or less suited to their needs. The pool’s shape and material can go on to impact whether water features and other amenities can be added to the pool.
Additionally, the installation of an in-ground pool will improve the property’s value for resale. Conversely, an above ground pool will not typically boost selling value, and usually require uninstalling and disposal.
Considerations for Designing a Pool
Above ground pools require little consideration, as they are prepackaged in typically round or rectangle shapes with no design options. However, one of the decisions that will apply to an in-ground vinyl installation is what material will line the interior of the pool.
- Pool Liner – Potential options include concrete, fiberglass, and vinyl. Vinyl pool installation is becoming an increasingly popular option because it tends to be less expensive than the other options and can be installed quickly and easily. Additionally, vinyl is soft and smooth, with options in multiple colors and patterns available. Vinyl liners can be installed in ambitiously or complicated shaped pools, but there are also creative options in color and tilework (without the cost of tile finishing).
- Surface Finish- Finishings are another important creative decision to make. Concrete pools will need to be professionally finished to protect the interior and ensure that it stands the test of time. White plaster finishing is a common choice that results in the bright, glowing water that characterizes many pools. Aggregate finishings combine plaster with minerals and glass to provide an interesting color combination and a compelling but rough texture (which is great for grip on slippery surfaces). Tilework in a variety of materials offers some of the most engaging visuals and the smoothest textural experience. There are pros and cons to each option aesthetically, but they also have differences in longevity and required maintenance. Each material responds differently to time, wear, and even algae and moisture.
- Maintenance- Homeowners should also give thought to how they’ll maintain cleanliness in their pool. Personal pools are typically balanced with chlorine or salt to fight bacteria or algae. Saltwater pools actually create a form of chlorine, but the climate of the area and whether cold winters are common may influence this decision.
- Landscaping- When installing a pool, it is wise to consider how the addition will impact the property’s landscaping. This may also be the time to consider including any fence requirements or preferences. Homeowners typically rethink how they want their pool to connect to their patio, how the grass should grow, or whether existing elements, such as trees, must be removed. Changes in landscaping can work in tandem with features added to the pool such as waterfalls, new shrubbery, or natural stones which can hide the mechanisms behind them. A skilled pool installer can tackle these projects comprehensively, ensuring that the landscaping and the pool work synergistically to create a backyard oasis.
Coverings- Finally, supportive elements such as pool covers should be considered. They have multiple purposes, such as inhibiting evaporation, keeping out environmental debris, and halting freezing in the colder seasons. There are manual, automatic and those anchored into the surrounding deck area. Which pool covers a homeowner wants depends on location, as the passage of the seasons and shape of the pool will determine which option is best.
Make The Right Decisions with Professional Vinyl Pool Installer
The best way to create the perfect pool for your property is to understand everything that goes into the process and all the choices that need to be made. Features and additions range in cost, but nothing is more costly than having to redo a pool installation or reconsider major decisions.
At Masten Pools, our team has years of experience installing in-ground pools that are customized to meet each homeowner’s needs, landscape, and budget. Contact us to learn more about the elements you will need to consider for your new pool, as well as how we can help you get started on your vision.