Curious about what it takes to build a swimming pool or spa in your own backyard? Ask yourself several important questions and consider some key points before making the big commitment.
Before Taking the Plunge: Questions to Ask Yourself
Photo by Lisa Hallett Taylor
A swimming pool? A spa? A hot tub? A spool? Where will it go? How will I pay for it? Building or installing a new swimming pool or spa is a major addition to your property and your lifestyle. Are you up for it? Find out.
Reasons to Get a Pool or Spa
It may seem like a no-brainer -- who wouldn't want a private swimming pool or spa? To get started, write down a list of the reasons you might want one or the other. Include all family members or co-habitants in the process and consider each person's desires and opinions. Most likely, the reasons will include one or more of the following:- Recreation/Relaxation
- Exercise/Therapy
- Entertaining
Then There's the Expense
While most homeowners in the market for a pool or spa can probably find something within their budget, the range of "what you get for the money" is a wide one. Before you sign on the dotted line, consider all expenses involved with getting a new pool:- Building or Installation
- Operating & Maintenance
- Insurance/Liability
Where's it Going to Go?
If the word acre(s) is included in describing your lot size, it's only a matter of choosing one of many potential places to build a swimming pool or spa. For the rest of us with smaller or oddly sized plots of outdoor living space, it might be a challenge to accommodate a pool. Important points to ponder:- Lot Size & Shape
- Logistics & Accessibililty
- Climate, Weather & Indoors or Outdoors
