What I Wish I Knew Before Building A Pool: The Top Things To Consider Prior To Breaking Ground

Sep

Looking through swimming pool landscape design ideas and coming up with your own plan for a backyard pool is so exciting. But when you’re not dreaming about lazy summer weekends poolside, there’s a lot to think about - it’s a huge project!

There are a few things that you absolutely need to know before you dive into pool construction, from hidden costs to long-term maintenance. So, what are the most important things to know before building a pool?

In this guide, we’ll explain what to know before building a pool, and which questions to ask before building a pool in your backyard. Our main advice? A big part of your experience hinges on the company you use.

You can find the most seamless, transparent pool-building experience here at Michaelangelo’s. Our experienced Alpharetta pool builder team explains all the things you need to know before building a pool, ensuring you understand the process and don’t have any regrets - just a pristine pool!

What I Wish I Knew Before Building a Pool: Things Our Customers Tell Us They Should Have Considered First

We hear it from our customers all the time: what I wish I knew before building a pool… So many people don’t understand exactly what the process involves, or the most important questions to ask before building a pool in their backyard. So, here’s what you need to know.

The Real Pool Building Timeline

In terms of what I wish I knew before building a pool, the thing we hear most from our clients is their surprise over the pool building timeline. This isn’t helped by the fact that many contractors would rather give you overly optimistic estimates than offer an honest timeline.

So, how long does it take to build a pool, really? It varies for each project, depending on the scope and the location, but it takes at least several months. Permitting alone can take more than a month, and the construction process is substantially longer than that.

A Better Estimation of Cost

Just like the cost of landscaping design can vary and be unpredictable, so too can the cost of building a pool. Initial quotes can be at best inaccurate, and at worst, wildly misleading. Make sure you’re working with a company that explains and breaks down the expected costs for you.

What are the main things to know before building a pool in terms of the cost? Beyond the advertised price, there are often hidden expenses for upgrades, permits, excavation, and unexpected challenges like poor soil quality. Try to have a financial cushion that helps to cover these unplanned expenses. You can learn more about the cost to build a pool in our blog.

Financing and Budgeting Strategies

Financing a pool isn’t just about securing a loan; it’s about understanding how it fits into your overall financial plan. Homeowners often express regret over not exploring flexible financing options or considering how the pool investment affects their property’s resale value.

Establishing a clear budget, sticking to it, and having a plan for both upfront costs and long-term financial obligations can prevent stress down the line. It’s not just the cost of the initial build, either - understanding the ongoing maintenance costs also needs to factor into your budget.

The Maintenance Side of Things

What I wish I knew before building a pool: maintenance. We hear it all the time from our customers - people just don’t understand how much work it takes to keep a pool clean and functioning properly.

It’s important not to underestimate the time, effort, and cost involved. Balancing chemicals, cleaning, and addressing seasonal needs can become a time-consuming routine. Investing in automated systems or hiring a professional service are options, but come with an additional cost.

The Differences in Materials

One of the most important things to know before building a pool is understanding the different materials you can use, and the pros and cons of each. Materials like concrete, fiberglass, and vinyl each have unique benefits, maintenance requirements, and long-term durability.

What works for one customer may not be ideal for another based on factors like local climate, intended use, and budget. Understanding these distinctions can help make informed decisions - work with a pool contractor who takes the time to explain your options and help you make the best decision.

Importance of Finishes and Features

The finishes and additional features you choose, such as decking, lighting, or water features, can dramatically impact both the appearance and functionality of your pool. Whether you’re following the latest hardscape design trends or want something timeless, it’s an important consideration.

Make sure you carefully consider options like non-slip surfaces, energy-efficient equipment, and built-in safety features. These finishing touches are often permanent, and can enhance both the safety and enjoyment of your pool for years to come.

Fencing Requirements

In terms of how to design a backyard, most of the decisions are up to you. Pool fencing, though, is often out of your hands, and it’s essential to understand your local safety rules and regulations and make sure your fence complies.

The type, height, and design of the fence must meet local regulations, which can affect both your budget and your pool’s overall look. Understanding these requirements early on ensures you can choose a solution that blends well with your landscape design style while meeting safety standards.

Not All Pool Builders are Created Equal

Unfortunately, not all pool contractors provide the same level of service, craftsmanship, or transparency. When it comes to what I wish I knew before building a pool, working with the right company is something we hear all the time from our clients.

It’s critical to do thorough research, seek multiple quotes, and read reviews before making a decision. A reputable builder will offer clear communication, a track record of satisfied clients, and comprehensive warranties. This makes all the difference when it comes to building your pool.

Trust the Experts at Michaelangelo’s to Help You Navigate the Pool Building Process From A to Z!

Without the right pool builder on your side, your dream of a stunning backyard pool can quickly turn into a nightmare! You might be faced with skyrocketing extra costs, a timeline that keeps getting delayed, and a contractor that doesn’t loop you in or help you choose the right materials.

Here at Michaelangelo’s, we strive to offer the complete opposite experience. Specialists in Alpharetta landscape design, we’ve been building pools for our clients for decades. We understand the most important things to know before building a pool, and will set you up for success.

As well as our transparent pool-building services, we also offer premium landscaping solutions, from minimal landscape design or water feature landscaping to sustainable landscaping ideas and patio landscape design. Our service area includes:

So, whether you want to learn what to know before building a pool, or you wish to chat about landscaping ideas around tree roots or low cost fire pit landscape design, give us a call! We’ll always find the time to help you find the best possible solutions for your outdoor spaces.

Wrapping Up Our Guide on Things to Know Before Building a Pool

So, that wraps up our guide on things to know before building a pool. The main messages are that it’s important to do your research before jumping into the pool build, and it’s absolutely essential to find a pool builder you can trust and rely on.

At Micahelangeo’s, we bring experience and transparency to every Alpharetta landscaping project. We communicate openly, provide accurate cost estimates and timelines, and do everything we can to leave you with the perfect backyard pool of your dreams.

We’ve listened to all the “what I wish I knew before building a pool” stories, and won’t let you make these same landscaping mistakes. In an age where it can be so hard to find a reliable contractor, we’re a breath of fresh air!

Don’t risk a nightmare pool-building scenario with blown budgets and timelines - let Michaelangelo’s take the stress out of things and bring your dream pool to life!