Are you dreaming about pool parties and lazy summer afternoons lounging beside your custom backyard pool? Buying a pool is a great investment for your entire family that can help create a lifetime of memories. 

But before you jump in, it’s important to consider several factors, including the cost of building a pool and what kinds of designs and features you like the best. By choosing a trusted luxury pool builder, you can check all the boxes on your pool-planning list and start building the custom pool of your dreams. Here are 12 essential things to consider before you buy a pool to ensure that your dream pool turns out just how you hope it will. 

1. Your Budget

A pool is a big investment. It is bound to make life more relaxing and fun, but before you commit to purchasing a pool, it’s best to have a good idea of your budget and how much you’re willing to spend. Before crunching the numbers, it’s a good idea to make a list of all the features that you’d like to include in your dream poolscape. You may not be able to include them all, but it will give you a starting point when it comes to design.

Next, focus on a budget so you can decide on a price that you’re comfortable with. That way, you can settle on a pool that doesn’t break the bank or add unnecessary stress. A financial advisor can be a tremendous help when making such a decision. They can assist you in narrowing down your needs and wants, so you can determine whether a pool is a wise investment at the moment, or what you can do to budget for one in the future.

2. Different Pool Types

There are essentially three different types of pools: fiberglass, vinyl, and concrete. Each pool type has unique advantages and disadvantages that you will need to weigh up. Your luxury pool builder has the knowledge and expertise to help you choose the right pool type for your budget, your property, and your needs. 

For example, a concrete pool is incredibly durable and customizable, making it a great choice for many homes. However, it’s also the most expensive option and it takes the longest to build. Vinyl and fiberglass pools are more affordable, but they come in fewer shapes, and vinyl liners are less durable than the rest. With help from your professional pool builder, you can pick a pool type that checks all the boxes for your family.

Once you’ve chosen a pool type, your next step is to pick a shape. Your chosen pool type will determine how much freedom you have in picking a shape. If you opt for a concrete pool, your options are nearly endless.

3. How to Capitalize on Your Available Space

Your backyard is one-of-a-kind, and it’s important to capitalize on your available space to get the most bang for your buck. Once you pick the pool type that works best for your budget and space, it’s important to consider the size, shape, and features you want to include. All of these factors will depend on the size of your yard and what structures need to be worked around.

Related: Essential Tips for Designing and Planning Your Pool

A luxury pool builder is an invaluable asset at this stage. They’ve got the technology and tools to help you design a poolscape that is custom-made for your space, so that it fits perfectly, utilizes every square inch of space, and meets your needs best. By carefully choosing a pool that capitalizes on your available space, you’ll also be adding to the overall value of your property.

4. Your Lifestyle

Pools serve a number of purposes. Whether you’re dreaming of lazy summer staycations, neighborhood parties, or family fun, you can design a backyard pool space to meet your unique lifestyle and needs. 

Families with children may benefit from a pool with a shallow end, a waterslide, and a lot of space to splash and play. People looking to create an entertainment space may want to include features like a swim-up bar or set the mood with fire bowls and light features. Homeowners craving a peaceful oasis may opt for architectural details, a natural stone design, or a customized waterfall.

No matter your circumstances, allow your lifestyle to influence your pool design. That way, you’ll create a pool space that has all the features you need to enjoy it all summer long.

5. Safety Considerations

Owning a pool is a big responsibility that should never be taken lightly. Homeowners with children and pets must consider which safety measures need to be implemented in order to keep their smallest family members safe. In fact, it’s one of the biggest concerns when building a pool, and for good reason. Many cities and states have laws that require pool owners to have proper enclosures and locks in place.

Consider your backyard space and pool design preferences and choose appropriate safety measures that will keep your pool secure at all times. This may include enclosures like fences and gates with locks, water alarms, safety covers, and other safety considerations. Your luxury pool builder can help you pick the right security features to ensure that every member of your family is safe.

6. The Local Climate

Building a pool in southern California is a very different process than building a pool in northern Michigan. A pool builder always considers the local climate when designing a backyard pool. If you live in a place that isn’t warm year-round, you may want to buy a pool that has a heater. This can extend your pool season by several weeks, and it allows you to spend more time swimming in warm water, even as the temperatures begin to drop. 

Homeowners who live in places that experience all four seasons may opt for a fire pit or fire bowls when building their pools. This creates a warm place to gather and dry off when you get out of the pool and an exciting focal point year-round.

People in warmer climates may want to consider shade options when designing their pool. This provides guests with an escape from direct sunlight without having to leave the pool area altogether. There are plenty of shade options that can be incorporated into your pool design that will make your pool feel comfortable no matter the weather.

7. Landscape Design

A new backyard pool isn’t complete without proper landscaping. Your luxury pool builder can provide landscaping services that make your pool seamlessly fit into your backyard space, ensuring your pool harmonizes beautifully with the features of your property. They’ll take into account factors like the amount of maintenance that fits your lifestyle, the perfect botanical additions to incorporate and what lighting will create the best atmosphere.

Related: What to Look for in Pool and Landscape Design

Whether you dream of a natural oasis filled with large plants and green space or a large patio and outdoor kitchen that’s made for entertaining, your pool builder will help you pick a landscape design that caters to your needs. 

8. Water Features and Lighting

There are endless options for making your pool your own. Water features like fountains and waterfalls can create the perfect ambiance for your backyard space. The visual effect of cascading water accompanied by the relaxing sound can transform your backyard into a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the world. 

Underwater lights can make your pool festive and fun once the sun goes down, and thoughtfully placed spotlights can draw your eyes toward water features or landscaping details that add a luxurious effect at night. Consider water and light features before building your pool so they can be incorporated into its design. Adding them later can be an expensive and frustrating process.

9. Your Zoning Laws

Researching your local zoning laws isn’t the most exciting part of the pool building process, but it’s certainly necessary. If you have a Homeowner’s Association (HOA), it’s important to consult with them about your pool building plans. It’s also important to contact your municipal authorities. That way, you can rest assured that your pool plans are legal and lawful. Building a pool that doesn’t check all the boxes can lead to expensive penalties and legal problems. 

Luckily, your luxury pool builder will be well-informed about the local zoning laws, regulations, and permit procedures, so you don’t have to lift a finger. They’ll make sure all the paperwork is filed before the building process begins.

10. Insurance Coverage

Before you build a pool, it’s important to make sure it’s included in your insurance coverage. Typically, it’s part of your homeowner’s insurance, but it’s best to call your insurance company for clarification. 

Speak with an agent to determine whether building a pool will raise your premiums, how that will affect your budget, and whether you need to file any paperwork to ensure you’re covered. That way, you can enjoy your pool without having to worry about accidents or liabilities that may occur.

11. Maintenance Needs

A pool can greatly increase the value of your home if properly maintained. Without proper maintenance, on the other hand, it can actually decrease the value of your home. Consider whether you’ll take care of it yourself, or whether you’ll hire a professional for regular maintenance. 

Basic pool maintenance requires that you invest in items like a net skimmer, a pool vacuum, a pool brush, a water testing kit, and sanitizers and balancers. The type of pool and features you include will determine the type of maintenance that it will need. Your pool builder can help you create a maintenance plan for your unique pool.

12. How to Choose a Luxury Pool Contractor 

Picking a luxury pool contractor you can trust is the most important thing to consider when building a pool. It’s crucial to pick a company that will walk you through the entire process by providing constant communication every step of the way. 

A trusted pool contractor will design and build your custom pool by adhering to strict zoning laws, ensuring a safe work site, and remaining within your budget.  Ask about whether the company is insured, whether they offer warranties, and what their building process is like. Take your time and do your research before committing to the right luxury pool builder. Find a company you can confidently trust with your money and your home. 

Trust the Right Luxury Pool Builder with Your Custom Pool Design

Building a pool can be an exciting adventure that leads to a backyard playspace your neighbors will envy. By considering factors like your budget, your lifestyle, and your zoning laws, you can dial in on the perfect custom swimming pool design for your family and home. If you’re ready to dive in, our luxury pool contractors at California Pools have the experience and expertise to make your pool dreams a reality. Check out our website to find a location near you today.