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Essential Steps to Building Your Dream Pool

Table of Contents

  1. Key Takeaways
  2. Envisioning Your Oasis
  3. The Essential Steps to Building Your Dream Pool
    • a. Planning Ahead of the Basics
    • b. Site & Location Analysis
    • c. Design & Material Selection
    • d. Contractor Vetting
    • e. Permitting & Approvals
  4. Beyond the Water’s Edge
    • Decking Choices
    • Landscaping Integration
    • Safety Features
  5. Transform Your Backyard With a Custom Pool

TurnKey Pool Designers believes building your dream pool should be a series of well-thought-out steps to find that perfect balance of design, functionality, and quality. From selecting the right kind and material of the pool to studying site preparation and construction timetables, every element is critical.

With a little planning, sound professional advice, and detailed attention, your backyard can be an amazing paradise. Learn from our experienced designers.  Here, they simplify the reasons for building your dream pool, breaking it down into six key steps so you can make an informed purchase with confidence. Let’s start planning your ideal pool today. Reach out to us and see how we can bring your vision to life.

Key Takeaways

  • Determine your pool’s function up front — recreational, exercise, or aesthetic.
  • Draw inspiration from magazines, showrooms, and resorts.
  • Seriously evaluate your lifestyle and space.
  • Budget wisely – consider construction, landscaping, and maintenance when planning your budget.
  • Do a site analysis for optimal pool location.
  • Safety first — don’t forget to include fencing, slip-resistant decking, and proper lighting.

Envisioning Your Oasis

Infinity edge pools

Designing your ideal pool begins with envisioning your oasis. Whether it’s a haven or a hub, the style needs to be you.

First, consider why you want a pool. Is it for family play, exercise, or just beauty? If exercise is your focus, for instance, a lap pool with lanes is perfect. If chilling is the aim, then a luxe option with a spa or infinity edge might be more suitable. Families with kids might opt for safety and play zones.

The Essential Steps to Building Your Dream Pool

From idea to installation, building your dream pool can involve planning, implementation, and perfection. Every step is meaningful in bringing your fantasies into reality, yet maintaining your pool safe, operational, and beautiful.

1. Planning Ahead of the Basics

A considered budget goes beyond the price tag of the pool. Construction costs include excavation, choice of materials, and labor. Keep in mind long-term costs such as maintenance and cleaning systems, and energy-efficient equipment.

Don’t forget to include decking and landscaping that beautify the pool and add functionality. Features such as pergolas, lighting, or a custom waterfall will add up quite a bit, so budget accordingly.

2. Site & Location Analysis

If you have a yard, determine where the pool is to go. An open, level site is simpler to construct on, whereas a slope may require retaining walls and/or additional grading. Before excavating, check for underground utilities or groundwater, since these will affect the excavation.

Considering sun exposure and wind direction, orient your pool to best suit swimming. Adhering to zoning laws–like setbacks and fencing–is just as important to prevent fines or hold-ups.

3. Design & Material Selection

Selecting the perfect pool style is basic. Customizable concrete pools, minimal-maintenance fiberglass pools, and value-priced but short-lived vinyl pools are the options. Selecting finishes like Pebble Tec provides not just durability but a luxury feel.

Decking with stamped concrete or natural stone can match the style of your home, with ambiance provided by LED lighting. Working with a designer allows you to tie these all together.

4. Contractor Vetting

An experienced contractor guarantees good work. Seek certified builders experienced in your desired pool design. Ask for portfolios and visit the finished projects, where possible, to assess craftsmanship.

Obtain multiple bids, but beware of very low bids — they tend to be substandard. Trustworthy contractors will offer timelines, warranties, and references. Online reviews and community recommendations can provide some good insights.

5. Permitting & Approvals

Permits are mandatory where they differ. This usually includes submitting drawings to your local officials, and can take 30 days or more. Even homeowners who have HOA restrictions need to get their approval before construction.

Beyond the Water’s Edge

Swimming pool with deck chairs - Turnkey Pool Designers

Crafting your dream pool goes way beyond the water. The best pool spaces craft an integrated backyard escape that prioritizes utility, security, and beauty.

  • Decking Choices

The appropriate decking, in fact, frames your pool but sets the atmosphere for the entire zone. Durable wood substitutes like concrete, stone, or composite decking are desirable because they are durable and weather-resistant.

Textured pavers or treated concrete that are slip-resistant eliminate dangers, especially when there is rain. Colors and texture can coordinate the deck with your look. Easy colours like beige or grey complement modern pools, while rich wood tones complement tropical themes.

  • Landscaping Integration

A well-designed landscape can turn the area surrounding a pool into an oasis. Tropical flowers such as palms, hibiscus, or banana trees offer lush greenery and shade.

Hardscaping features such as walkways made of stone or retaining walls offer functionality and define the space. These are little details that can highlight the shape of the pool—meandering pathways go well with freeform pools, while geometric patterns suit modern designs.

  • Safety Features

Safety rails guard swimmers, yet slip into the pattern. Self-closing fencing with alarms is typically required to meet codes in the area. Handrails and non-slip surfaces improve accessibility. For added security, install a pool net or cover when the pool is unused. Smart lighting, such as LED, keeps items visible in the evening and doubles as a design feature.

Transform Your Backyard With a Custom Pool

Building your ideal pool isn’t just adding a feature to your backyard. It’s creating a retreat that suits your lifestyle and an investment in lasting home value. A well-planned pool not only enhances how you enjoy your home today but also adds beauty and functionality for years to come. With the right design and guidance, the process can be exciting, rewarding, and stress-free.

Ready to get started? Call our master designers at TurnKey Pool Designers and tell us your vision, and let’s create a pool that’s one of a kind.

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