When searching for homes in warmer climates it is very common for most everyone’s wish list to include a pool. It is one of those amenities that certainly sweetens the deal when you find the perfect home. These days with everyone appreciating all that home has to offer even more so, having a pool tends to create even more value so you may want to add one yourself. Here are some helpful tips for adding a pool to your home and creating the yard of your dreams.
The Size
Everyone’s yard comes in all shapes and sizes and the great thing is so do pools! If your yard is big and square or small and narrow a pool can be designed to fit nicely. A popular trend these days for smaller pools is to build a pool/spa combination. This is essentially a pool that you can also use just like a spa. With them being smaller you can also heat them up for much less than your standard larger pool. Whichever size you decide, a good rule of thumb is to have your pool no bigger than 1/3rd of your whole yard size.
Pool Shape
Your yard may determine what shape is best, but for many years oval or kidney-shaped pools were most common with more rectangle or L-shaped modern shapes trending more as of late. The more angular shapes often complement the more modern home designs that are often seen being built these days. In the end, it is your choice of preference for what fits best with your yard shape and home style.
Depth
Depth goes hand in hand with what the function of the pool will be. Will you have a pool for just lounging in? Will there be smaller children? Or do you wish to dive in? Water sports and play pools should be about 4 feet deep while if you have smaller children then having a shallow end of 2 or 3.5 feet will give you a wading and lounge zone. If diving is what you want to do then it is recommended you have a minimum of 8 feet for safety.
Added Features
Once you have the basics covered, then thinking about the features can be the fun part. Waterfalls and deck jets have been around for a while and have been common features for years. More recently sun decks have become more popular providing a shelf area that is flat and shallow yielding a great option for sitting in a chair to enjoy the sun and a drink or for young children. Pets love these too if they are permitted!
Surrounding and Decking
All of these items referenced above are for the actual pool itself, but you do have to decide on the surrounding area. Pavers or travertine-type tile materials are very nice and can have a nicer look than basic concrete styles. Having something that is not slippery and stays cool in the sun is most important. Next, you will want to pick out your furniture options. A mix of lounge chairs and a nearby table with chairs for your pool party afternoons is a great winning combo. If you don’t have much shade then large umbrellas are a great solution as they can be mobile too!