thisplace.com.au - Thinking about a Pool

Where will we put the pool?

choosing the correct site for your pool is vital
while pools can be located in the back yard, at the side of a home or even in the front, you first must obtain council permission

You should also consider the orientation of your site

does the sun reach the intended area?
will there be shady spots to escape the sun when it becomes too hot?
does the wind blow hard or swirl in the proposed area - will a wind break be necessary?
are there trees and shrubs close to the proposed pool area - overhanging trees are likely to shed leaves and insects into the pool
can the pool be easily supervised from the house?
is the site suitable for a pool? - consider the placement of services such as water pipes, sewerage lines and electricity cables

These days thanks to modern construction techniques pools can be installed just about anywhere.

How big should the pool be?

Big is not necessarily better. Consider the size of your block and lifestyle before installing a pool. During summer a pool is a great asset but if the pool takes up all of the space where are the kids going to play when they are not swimming?

The size of the pool should also be determined by your planned use.

will there be lots of people using the pool regularly?
if you are going to swim laps in the pool you will need at least one metre of water under you.

What sort of pool should we buy?

Nowdays pools can come in all different shapes and sizes, no longer are they just square or round. Advanced manufacturing techniques mean that the shape of your pool can be designed for your site and personal choice.

Concrete pools are the oldest type of construction. Their construction begins with an excavation and positioning of reinforcing.The concrete is then sprayed on to forms the walls of the pool.
Sprayed concrete techniques have changed the pool industry and are quicker and less expensive than the old box and pour method.
The pool is then finished with pebbles, coloured quartz, vinyl or tiles.

Fibreglass pools come in a range of shapes, sizes and colours. Like concrete pools, they begin with excavation. The prefabricated fibreglass pools shape is then placed and fixed. The advantage of this method is that they can be installed in a short period of time because they are manufactured offsite.

Vinyl linings were originally used for above- ground pools but advances in liner technology mean this type of construction is becoming more popular. The pre-manufactured or tailor made vinyl membrane is vacuum fitted to the exact shape to provide a smooth, tough and hard wearing lining. Because the lining is prefabricated, installation times are reduced.

Above ground pools are popular with families who do not own their own home or who may want to move their pool at a later date. Generally, they are prefabricated for quick and easy installation.Savings are made in labour and soil removal costs but above ground pools can be partially inground if desired.

What will a pool cost?

The cost of a pool will vary according to the size, style and location you choose. The following costs are a guide only as pool companies have various options to choose from.

As a rough guide, a 1.2 metre above ground family pool ranges from $2500 to $4500 in kit form. Installation above ground will cost between $ 400 and $ 800
A small fibreglass pool ( 1.2 metres deep, 3 metres wide and 4.9 metres long ) retails for $9890 fully installed, whereas the largest ( 12 metres long and 4.35 metres wide, ranging between 1.1 and 2 metres deep ) retails for $17 880.
The average family-size concrete pool is priced at $14 800 while a vinyl lined pool of similar size will cost approximately $14 000

What other costs are involved?

Apart from the cost of building or installing your pool, there are other costs you should consider when deciding to include a pool in your building project.

landscaping, pool fencing ( required by State Government legislation ) and ongoing maintenance costs should be considered
ongoing maintenance includes chemicals, maintenance of filtration equipment, electricity to run filters and heating and if desired. the cost of automated pool cleaning equipment

If you do not want to set aside time in your schedule to maintain your pool, you should also include the cost of hiring someone to check chemical levels and ensure your water is safe to swim in.

If you need to borrow money to finance your pool, you should also include the cost of loan fees and interest in your calculations.While there is no doubt that having a pool can add another dimension to your life, and as it is a major investment it must be carefully considered.

Source: article by Angela Whitaker in Queensland Homes Building and Renovating magazine- vol 1 - no 1