How to Buy a Swimming Pool

How to Buy a Swimming Pool
Adam Simpson
12/15/2014
Updated:
4/23/2016

Swimming pools provide great ambiance to your backyard, and with the beautiful weather year-round in Florida, you can always enjoy taking a dip, whether you want to relax, have a barbeque with friends and family, exercise or something else. If you’re currently in the market for a new swimming pool, that purchase comes with quite a few considerations that you must first make.

Types of Swimming Pools

One of the first decisions that you will need to make when purchasing a swimming pool is the type of pool that you want. Above ground and in-ground pools are the two choices. An above-ground pool is much easier (and more affordable) to install than an in-ground pool, with the smallest starting at about 12 foot. Some of the larger pools are as long as 24 foot in diameter. Round, oval and rectangular shaped pools are available.

An in-ground pool uses a concrete frame that usually is installed by a pool specialist. The best thing about an in-ground pool is the fact that the purchaser can design them however they choose.

It is a good idea to compare the features and costs of each type of swimming pool before making a decision as to which one you want to buy. Also keep in mind the cost of installation, as well as the available space in the back yard.

Type of Material

The type of material the swimming pool is made of is also important. Obviously when you spend such a large amount of money you want it to last for as long as possible, and not all materials are created equal.

Many older swimming pools were constructed of wooden frames; these are rarely used today because they aren’t durable, nor do they have strength. Aluminum frames are popular, but this type of frame can become hot quickly, not to mention corrode. Steel frames can be used in the construction but are known to must. Resin frames are most popularly used, since they do not rust, they are reliable, and do not accumulate heat.

Cost of Operating

Again, this is another major consideration when purchasing a swimming pool for your home. There are several things that affect the average monthly cost of operating a swimming pool, including the amount of time that is spent in the pool, the type of pump that is inside of the swimming pool, and the maintenance of the pool. The larger the swimming pool, the more that it will cost to operate as well. Tally all of these various numbers up (after speaking to a pool installation specialist) to determine the average cost of operation of various types of pools. Most people choose to use a professional pool service company to handle their pool maintenance needs as it saves them money over the course of a year.

These are just some of the many different factors that you should use when trying to decide the best type of swimming pool to purchase from your home. No matter what you want or the money that you have to invest, it is important that you do plenty of research prior to spending any money on an outdoor swimming pool.