A backyard swimming pool is a dream for millions of people. They provide fun, relaxation, beneficial exercise, and relief from heat and humidity. However, most people greatly underestimate the cost of installing the pool, not to mention any of the available options and extras.

Material

The type of material used in the pool’s construction will affect the cost. A concrete pool can cost between $50,000 to $100,000, while a vinyl pool will run between $28,000 to $40,000. A fiberglass pool will cost, on average, between $28,000 to $60,000. The type of finish is another important aspect. Tile is the most expensive.

Access and Landscaping

A variety of other factors will affect the cost that includes the amount of landscaping that needs to be completed to ready the site. Access can be a problem and increase the cost. Areas in which access by machinery and equipment is difficult may require the services of a crane or other specialized equipment that will increase costs.

Size

The size of the pool will significantly contribute to the cost. More soil will need to be removed and extra dirt will need to be hauled away. Larger pools will obviously require more materials for construction and larger filtering and cleaning systems.

Maintenance

The larger the pool, the more expensive it will be to operate, even with automatic, eco-friendly systems. A pool requires regular cleaning and the addition of chemicals for a hygienic environment. Even though many tasks can be automated, you’ll still need to spend some time on cleaning or hire a pool professional.

Options

You can have your pool designed with a wide range of options and features ranging from LED lighting and heating to fountains, waterfalls, cascades and even poolside fire pits.

Safety Measures

Pool safety features aren’t negotiable – they’re the law. You’ll have to erect a fence that meets certain specifications that prevent access to the pool by children, along with specific types of gates and alarm systems may even be required. There may also be pool covers to consider.

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There are a number of items that can affect the cost of an existing pool or the installation of a new one. Much will depend on the lay of the land and whether it’s a new installation or adding features to an existing pool. Either way, there will be additional costs that most people don’t consider.

Concrete

Pool owners will typically have 3 to 4 feet of patio space around their pool. While that may be enough for some, many people want more footage to place outdoor furniture or aid in keeping grass and debris from finding its way into the pool. Extra concrete increases the cost.

Dirt Hauling

There’s a lot of dirt that will have to come out of the ground to install a pool and it has to go somewhere. Few individuals are fortunate enough to have enough space in their yard to distribute it and doing so may change the lay of the land, which can lead to drainage problems. The pool installer will have to remove the dirt to another location and it won’t be cheap to move that much soil.

Electric

The pool will need access to electrical power to operate. The cost will vary widely and depend on the features installed now or in the future. It includes a pump, salt chlorine generator, heat pump, lighting, hot tub, or an automatic pool cover. Some installers include the cost in their estimate, but some provide a bare bones estimate.

Fencing

Florida law dictates that pools must have a fence or other secure barrier around pools that adhere to very specific requirements to aid in the prevention of drowning. The fencing must also have a self-locking gate.

Landscaping

Heavy equipment will be used to dig up the ground where the pool will be. Areas outside the excavation site may be damaged. That includes depressions in the ground where the equipment sets or the need to reseed some areas. However, access to the property may include heavy equipment running over a driveway and the weight could damage it.

Retaining Wall

A retaining wall isn’t something that everyone will need, but enough people do that it’s worth mentioning. A yard that has a valley, slope or a drop off near the pool will need a retaining wall to keep dirt, debris and water runoff from entering the pool. A wall may be needed if the pool interrupts normal rainwater runoff, if the soil is sandy or loose, or if a slide or fountain is added.

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There’s much to be said for the benefits of adding a spa when you install your new pool. The good news is that you can even add one to your existing pool and it will provide all the benefits of a hot tub. It can be ornamented and enhanced in a variety of ways with water, custom seating options, jets, mood lighting, a sound system, and tile colors.

Depending on the construction and design, the spa area will be separated with some type of barrier from the pool. The spa can be at the same height or slightly elevated, depending on personal preference. The spa area can be incorporated within the pool itself or created as a separate “pool.”

Most people prefer their spa to be the second type – connected yet separate from the swimming pool. You can choose a custom-built spa or one that’s pre-fabricated. Either can be easily incorporated into your landscape.

Adding a spa to your pool opens up new possibilities for health and wellness, along with lifestyle and even entertaining. Spas have multiple therapeutic benefits and are a great way to ease sore joints and muscles whether you have joint condition or you’re recovering from a gym workout.

Depending on your available space and personal preferences, you may choose to have a spa installed that’s entirely separate from the main pool. It can be done at the same time as the pool is installed or at a later date. If your available space is limited and you don’t have room for a traditional swimming pool, a warm water spa is an ideal alternative.

A spa is an effective method of hydrotherapy for sore joints and muscles. The warm water increases circulation and soothes away stress and tension. The spas are equally popular as a focal point for entertaining. An added benefit is that it adds value to your home and lifestyle, along with your mental, physical and emotional health.

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A pleasing pool doesn’t just happen. It’s a project that takes careful planning and takes your desires, budget, and lifestyle into consideration. Pools can be constructed and installed in a myriad of shapes and sizes to accommodate any space. A swimming pool is also a major investment and proper planning with a pool professional ensures the finished product will be exactly what you want.

Budgetary Concerns

The first step is to understand your budget and how much you have to spend on a pool. Before getting too excited about your new pool, talk to at least three pool installation specialists to obtain an idea of the type of expenses involved before moving forward. The shape and size will impact costs.

Land Considerations

The attributes of your property will have an impact on where, how and even if an in-ground pool can be installed. Your yard may require significant prep work to prepare the site for installation and that can significantly impact the time required and cost involved. Retaining walls may need to be erected or hills might need to be leveled.

Access to the site may be a problem and that will also affect the cost. The soil may present a risk for an in-ground pool, but not for an above-ground pool. You may have to choose between an above-ground model, no pool, or an alternative such as a spa.

Zoning

Every community has specific zoning regulations governing the type of features and additions that can be made to properties. There are also a variety of safety equipment and measures that must be provided when you have a pool. It’s a good idea to investigate zoning requirements before you set your heart on a specific size or type of pool.

Features and Options

You’re going to have a wealth of features and options from which to choose that you can include in the pool set up. You can select from different finishes, colors and textures of the pool itself, along with LED mood lighting, stereo options, and pool heaters. Traditional swimming pools and saltwater options are available, along with fountains and built-in waterfalls.

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The decking that surrounds a pool is an important part of the pool environment. It sets the tone, character and style of the swimming area and will be where tables, chairs, and other outdoor furnishings will be placed. However, not all pool decking is the same and there are some factors to consider when choosing pool decking.

The materials used in pool decking will have an impact on the people using the pool. Decking materials have function and performance requirements that are far different than an ordinary patio. A pool professional can provide invaluable assistance in choosing the decking materials that best fits individual needs.

Heat Retention

In Florida’s abundant sunshine, pool decking can soak up a lot of heat. The surfaces can become extremely hot and result in burns to the soles of the feet. Individuals have a number of materials available that offer superior levels of reflectivity. For those that have their heart set on a specific material, there are decorative overlays that substantially reduce the amount of radiation and heat absorbed.

Maintenance

No one wants to spend time on maintaining the decking when the pool is so inviting. Concrete is one of the most often used materials for pool decking and while there are pavers and tiles aplenty, they’ll can often require more maintenance than concrete. The selected material will need to be able to withstand constant exposure to pool chemicals, heat, and water without degrading.

Slip Resistance

Splashing and water spillover from pools are to be expected, but it can also lead to a very slippery surface that can result in falls and injuries. The decking can be hazardous for everyone and particularly dangerous for children, the elderly, and anyone that has partaken of alcoholic beverages. Footwear can fail to gain traction on wet surfaces just as easily as wet feet. Slip resistance should be a priority for every pool owner.

Space

A good rule of thumb for a rectangular pool is decking that extends a minimum of four feet on both sides and eight feet on the ends to provide ample space for walking and lounging around the pool. Some materials will cost more to cover the same amount of space.

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Lighting for the backyard is one of the most often overlooked features for safety and entertaining – and it can be one of the most frustrating. The lighting provides a warm and inviting atmosphere for sharing good times with family and friends, but can also attract unwanted insect pests. LED lighting technology provides a myriad of illumination advantages over traditional bulbs and an LED alternative exists for every type of existing fixture.

Saving Money

One of the biggest attractions of LED lights is that they’re much cheaper to operate than traditional bulbs. They’re 80 percent more efficient and don’t use as much electricity.

Versatility

LED lights are available in multiple colors, allowing homeowners to customize their backyard decorating and take control of their illumination solutions in any situation. They encompass the full light spectrum, enabling individuals to create distinctive looks for any themed event.

Longer Life

The average life span of LED lights is approximately seven years and the longevity can even extend up to 10 years or more, depending upon differences in usage. As a result, they require very minimal levels of maintenance. LED technology doesn’t use filaments and they’re not glass-based, making them more resistant to bumps, shocks, vibrations, and fluctuations in temperatures.

Safety

LEDs produce more light with fewer fixtures than traditional bulbs and provide greater visibility for family members and guests. They can significantly reduce the potential for trip and fall accidents. They emit a fraction of the heat of ordinary light bulbs and remain cool to the touch, meaning they can be used in areas where children and pets frequent.

Eco-Friendly

Aside from using less power to operate, LEDs minimize light pollution. They cast illumination specifically where they’re directed without “bleeding” out into adjoining areas. LED lights can be recycled and don’t contain toxic components such as mercury.

Fewer Insects

One of the great things about LED lights is that they don’t emit the type of UV light that insects find attractive so there will be fewer bugs fluttering around – and everyone wants that!

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If you’ve always dreamed of having a pool but don’t think you have the space, there’s good news. There are a wide variety of small pools that are making a big splash with homeowners across the nation.  You can choose from in-ground, above-ground, and pools that can be installed indoors and outside.

Properties are getting smaller and compact pools are the perfect solution for narrow or small lots. They provide all the pleasure of a pool for cooling off, relaxing and entertaining for those that don’t have the space to install a standard 20×40 pool. Small pools have expanded the range and options for homeowners. They’re being placed in front yards, garages, extra rooms, and even as the focal point of a central courtyard.

It’s important to understand that the small pools of today are typically not for swimming in the traditional sense. They’re hybrids that are shallower and combine the benefits of a pool with a spa and can be used for relaxing or a centerpiece for entertaining. Their small size means that homeowners can often have the luxury of a pool with other elements such as decks and patios.

As pools have evolved to accommodate small spaces, they’ve picked up a variety of names to differentiate between them and their larger cousins. Small pools are called everything from wading pools and cocktail pools to plunge pools or a shortened version known as a spool. The different designations are typically used to identify the usage.

Compact pools can be customized in a myriad of ways. Specialized shapes can be created that accommodate the specific needs of the property, such as oddly shaped and unused corners of the real estate. Small pools can be raised or sunken and the only limitation for a small pool is the imagination.

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Decorating for the holidays is a fun and colorful tradition that can take many forms. Anything that can be adorned with bright lights will be and Florida swimming pools are no exception. It’s not surprising that pools would get a taste of the holiday spirit. The climate enables people to celebrate and entertain outside around the pool, even if they’re not swimming.

Trimming the Trees and Bushes

One of the easiest ways to create a Christmas-themed wonderland is by trimming the trees and dressing up the greenery around the pool area. Large inflatable ornaments can be purchased to hang from larger trees. They can also be inflated and decoratively tossed in the pool. LED light nets are available that can be artfully draped over bushes.

Lighting the Way

Lights are an important part of the season and homeowners can choose from light strands with bulbs in multiple shapes that can be strung throughout the pool area. Rope lights are also an option, though the glow is muted compared to traditional lights. Icicle lights take their name from their shape and are always popular. Setting lights to twinkle mode will allow them to reflect off the water for additional effect.

Outdoor Inflatables

Whether it’s Santa on a sleigh, a snowman or a snow globe, there are dozens of inflatable Christmas-themed “statues” with which to decorate. The bigger-than-life inflatables also come in popular movie characters with a holiday touch.

Floating candles

For simple, elegant and eye-catching decorating, consider candles floating in the pool. Just don’t use candles and inflatables in the pool at the same time!

Imagine It

Most holiday themed decorations in December are centered around Christmas, but don’t forget the possibilities for New Year’s Eve entertaining. Streamers, inflatables, balloons and other brightly colored decorations are available for New Year’s. The beauty of the season is that New Year décor can be combined with Christmas around the pool to encompass the full spirit of the season.

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There comes a time when you’ll need to resurface your swimming pool, or you might just want to update the look. Made with natural quartz, Diamond Brite™ is unaffected by harsh chemicals, resists staining and etching, and doesn’t fade making it one of the most durable finishes in the industry.

Pools are meant to be welcoming and inviting. You don’t have to wait until there are highly noticeable marks and damages to your pool before giving it a facelift. With Diamond Brite™ finishes, you can opt for an entirely new look and restore it to its former glory.

Diamond Brite™ is offered in a variety of textures and the colors come in multiple shades of traditional blue, green, gray, and white, along with show-stopping hues of red, yellow, orange, purple, black, brown and multi-colored. The variegated appearance in the colors works to mask imperfections that often occur in other finishes.

One of the advantages of Diamond Brite™ is that it cures quickly so your pool won’t be down for very long. It’s strong, durable, and can be applied in a single day. The resurfacing material lasts an average of 8-12 years and can even be acid washed every five years if desired to aid in keeping the finish at its brightest.

The finish is easy to maintain and stands up to sunscreen, body oils, and makeup that is washed off in pools thanks to its innovative blend of polymer-modified Portland cement and quarts. The aggregate is offered in a variety of sizes to accommodate multiple types of design requirements and even architectural styles. It also has the benefit of being comfortable on swimmers’ feet.

Diamond Brite™ is an ideal solution if you’re looking for a combination of beauty, durability, and low maintenance. We offer free in-home consultations to review color boards and the various resurfacing options from which you can choose. We can add custom mosaics to your pool and we’re completely certified and licensed.

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A majority of people that decide to add a pool to their property’s amenities don’t understand the time that’s actually required to install a swimming pool. Each pool construction project is different with its own set of variables. The installer’s workload may be especially heavy or ground-related issues may arise, but a total time estimate is generally in the vicinity of 6-10 weeks.

Pool construction is a multi-step process. They must be installed to a specified set of criteria and permits must be obtained. Excavations will be part of the process and care will be required to avoid utility lines. The process begins by selecting a company that specializes in pool installations and talking with a designer.

The designer will make a physical visit to the property and examine the location where clients want their pool. He or she will discuss the details of what the client envision, make suggestions, and be able to assess the area for potential problems. When the details have been settled, it can take one to two weeks for the designer to present individuals with a rendering of how the completed project will look.

Securing the appropriate permits can be a tricky process. Some cities approve permits quickly if they’ve worked with the company before and they have an impeccable record. Other governmental units may require multiple approvals by the city’s engineer, appearing before a planning board, and obtaining input from neighbors. It can take a week or two, but in some instances it can take up to six months.

Jobs are completed in the order in which they’re received and a highly skilled and reputable builder often has a backlog of projects. This is especially true at certain times of the year. It may take one to four weeks from the time permits are approved until excavation begins. Add another week or two for installation of plumbing, electrical, and any special features such as lights and stereo systems.

A pool can be installed and have water in it in as little as two to seven days after excavation begins. Most problems arise from the construction of the patio area surrounding the pool. The hole around the pool must be filled and given time to settle to adequately support the patio. It can take one to four weeks for this step.

It may seem like forever from the time individuals begin the pool process to its completion since every pool installation project has a set of variables. When individuals are enjoying their new swimming pool and sipping cool drinks at poolside during the hottest part of the year, it will be well worth the wait.

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