What to Consider Before Getting a Swimming Pool Installation

There's nothing more refreshing than a cool dip in a swimming pool. If you enjoy visiting local pools and backyard getaways, you might consider getting a pool for your own home. Swimming pool installations vary wildly in cost, size, and time, so you'll have to make tough decisions as you go. Coastal Aquatic Creations is happy to answer all your installation questions. We're South Carolina pool experts who are happy to help anyone in Myrtle Beach, Pawleys Island, Conway, and beyond! House Value, Insurance, and Liability Before you commit, consider how a pool will impact your home's value. Most buyers avoid properties with pools because they don't want to deal with the extra maintenance. As a result, even nice pools can bring down your resale value. This may not bother you if you plan to stay in one house for the foreseeable future. However, remember that pools can also impact your homeowner's insurance and increase your accident liability. Most homeowners can get by with the standard $100,000 liability coverage, but those with pools may want to move up to $500,000. If someone drowns in your pool, you could be held accountable, whether you let them in or not. Zoning Laws and Building Permits Some areas don't allow pool installations. Others may require you to jump through a few hoops. Look at your local zoning laws to see if you're allowed to install a pool in the first place. Obtain the necessary building permits or work with contractors who can get them for you. In-Ground vs. Above-Ground As you plan your swimming pool installations, you must choose between in-ground or above-ground pools. Carefully consider the style that would best suit your needs and limitations. These customizable features are also dependent on the space you have to work with—from additional decks, steps, to waterfall features. In-ground In-ground pools are usually the first style that people think of. They're low-profile and can fit just about any space. Customers gravitate toward them because of the wide range of shapes, depths, and designs. On the downside, in-ground pools are much more expensive than their counterparts. They usually cost between $30,000 and $60,000. Additionally, they take a long time to install, and you have to wait weeks or months before you can use them. Above-ground Above-ground pools are much more affordable options. These cost between $4,000 and $6,000, and it only takes a day or two to set them up. You can skip all the waiting and jump right in! Sadly, these models come with drawbacks too. Because they rest on top of the ground, they're much more "in the way." Even if they're the same size as an in-ground pool, they seem to take up a lot more room. These pools are also pre-made, so there isn't much room for customization. Pool Material You'll also need to pick an appropriate material when installing a pool. The three main types of pools are vinyl, fiberglass, and concrete. Materials are an important component of pool design, so review the pros and cons of each one:

• Vinyl: This option is cheap to install and fairly customizable. That said, you must regularly replace it, and it can harbor algae growth.
• Fiberglass: Fiberglass is low-maintenance, durable, and salt-resistant, but it's fairly expensive and lacks customization options.
• Concrete: Strong and highly customizable, concrete can be a great option. However, it's extremely expensive to install and maintain and isn't saltwater compatible.