How to Know If You’re How to Know If You’re Ready For a PoolReady For a Pool

Many homeowners would answer a quick ‘yes’ without even giving it a second thought if someone were to ask if they wanted a backyard pool. Thoughts of summer time and fun and warm childhood memories make it easy to see why anyone would ‘dive right in’ so to speak. However, there’s more to owning a swimming pool than simply having fun, and not everyone is ready.

What Is Your Budget?What Is Your Budget?

The first thing to look at to help determine if you’re ready for a pool is your budget. How much can you spend and how much are you willing to spend to get one? You may be gung ho for the latest inground marvel, only to discover you’re thousands of dollars short in the budget department. Before you get in too deep, figure out how much you have to spend and go from there.

Where you live will help you decide whether a pool is for you or not. If you live in a climate that is not overly hot, you may want a pool heater or some type of enclosure to prolong the swimming season each year. Naturally, if you live in a warmer climate, heaters and enclosure are unnecessary.

Types of PoolsTypes of Pools

Figuring out what kind of pool you want is a big step in the process, and figuring out why you want a pool is a big step in deciding what type to get. Do you want it for having neighbourhood parties? Do you want to swim laps for exercise? Do you want it to help increase the property value? Figure out your ‘why’ and then you can move onto the types.

Maintenance is another factor that will help determine if you’re really ready for a backyard pool. Maintenance refers to things like pool cleaning and shocking and takes both time and money to carry out effectively. If the budget is there and you know why you want a pool, the maintenance and upkeep can really have an effect on whether pool ownership is enjoyable or a just another chore.

You really have to keep the right balance of chemicals to avoid algae growth and bacteria in the pool, especially if it is used regularly. Many people love the concept of swimming and having a pool, but detest the thought of keeping the water in good swimming condition. In reality, the maintenance routine isn’t all that extreme for time or money, and you can still enjoy your pool and keep it up with just a few minor adjustments. Or, you can increase the budget just a little and have someone come and keep it clean for you.