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If you’re considering adding a pool to your backyard space, there’s never a better time to turn your yard into the outdoor oasis of your dreams.
The onset of the pandemic last March made folks appreciate their private outdoor space in a new way, and pool builders have been working around the clock to keep up with the demand for new pools. So, are you ready to take the plunge?
Before you start, here are a few tips from Will Cappiello, product director of vinyl pools at Latham Pool.
Determine Location.
Because pools can be built in virtually any size or shape, Cappiello says “dream away” when it comes to envisioning how your new pool will fit in your backyard. Whether or not certain parts of your yard get sun in the summer might help you determine where to place your pool. And Cappiello says that when determining placement, “add three feet in every direction for pool decking so you’ll have a general idea how big the pool and the deck will be in relation to the space.” He also notes that you should check in with your local building codes and consult with your professional builder for their input.
Brainstorm.
The hardest part of your pool building process will likely be the planning stages. “Purchasing a pool and building the backyard of your dreams is a big investment in time and money,” says Cappiello. “But that doesn’t mean you can’t have fun with it.” He suggests creating inspiration boards on Pinterest or Houzz to show to your builder. Your builder will likely have projects of their own to show off that can also be helpful to your planning process.
Choose a Size.
“Ask yourself how you plan to use your pool,” says Cappiello. Will you be using it when hosting friends and family for barbeques? Or will this be a quiet retreat for you and your partner? Think about your lifestyle and your family’s specific needs and desires to help you determine whether the pool should be small, medium, or large.
Decide on a Shape.
Pool shape is all a matter of personal taste, says Cappiello, “so don’t sweat it—there’s no wrong answer.” A rectangle pool is simple and timeless, and it’ll be easy to install and hide an auto cover if that’s a good option for your family. If you’d like a more customized, resort look, a freeform pool is the way to go.
Latham offers both fiberglass and vinyl liner pools, which can both be produced in any shape or size. Their expert professionals can help you decide on the best fit for your pool.
Talk with Your Pool Builder.
Communicate with your builder along every step of the pool building journey. The sooner you mention any expectations you have or extras you might want, like tanning ledges, benches, or built-in spas, the smoother the building process will be. Even if you have some ideas for add-ons that will come at the end, like in-pool furniture or an automatic pool cover, communicate early and often.
Use Latham’s Pool Planning Applications.
Latham’s AR Pool Visualizer app is a great place to start imagining a pool in your own backyard. You can download the app onto any device, and using the camera, it’ll allow you to see a pool in your yard, choosing between different sizes, shapes, and colors. If you’d like to check out their liner patterns and greater depth, their liner visualizer tool on their website lets you view dozens of different liner patterns on differently shaped pools. Once you’ve determined a pool style and pattern, Latham’s new pool price estimator will help give you an idea of what your new pool will cost.
Last Word.
Cappiello’s number one tip for planning a pool: “Make sure you’re comfortable with the builder,” he says. “Selecting someone to work with is almost as important as the pool itself.” You should have a working relationship with your pool builder, since they’ll be transforming your entire yard. You also want to know they’ll be there for you when you have questions in the future.
If you’re interested in working with Latham for your upcoming pool project, head to Latham’s website to find one of their dealers near you (they work with dealers throughout North America).
For more information, visit lathampool.com.
