With pool construction and design, there are common mistakes that you should avoid at all costs. These mistakes can not only lead to costly problems down the line but also impact the overall safety and enjoyment of your pool. To ensure a successful pool construction process, it’s important to be aware of these mistakes and take proactive measures to avoid them.

Key Takeaways:

• Proper pool construction and design require careful attention to detail.
• Choosing the right pool builder is crucial for a successful project.
• Prioritizing pool safety features is essential to protect your loved ones.
• Considering maintenance requirements and ongoing costs is important for long-term pool ownership.
• Avoiding common mistakes can save you time, money, and stress in the future.

Focusing More on Appearance than Function

How will you use your pool? If you love to entertain, then you might want a waterfall, mood lighting, and other exciting features. Maybe you have children and need to put all of your focus on safety features. We suggest exploring pool finishes that are aesthetically pleasing and provide functional benefits for residential pools. Decide on your pool’s purpose before you start talking to contractors.

Choosing an Inconvenient Location

The ideal location for most pools is relatively close to the home. This location offers more privacy and greater convenience. It also allows you to use the space in your yard efficiently. Finally, you’ll spend a lot less time skimming leaves off the water’s surface if your pool is placed in an area that’s clear of trees.

Ignoring Safety Issues

When it comes to building a pool, safety should always be a top concern. Whether you have children, pets, or simply want to provide a secure environment for your friends and family, incorporating the right pool safety features is essential. Here are some key safety features to consider:

• Pool Handrails: Installing handrails along the steps and entry points of your pool can help prevent slips and falls, especially for those with limited mobility or balance issues.
• Anti-Slip Pool Finishes: Choosing a non-slip finish for your pool’s surface can significantly reduce the risk of accidents caused by slippery conditions. Look for anti-slip coatings or textured materials that provide traction.
• Pool Fences: Installing a pool fence is an effective way to create a physical barrier between your pool and the surrounding area. This can help prevent unauthorized access and keep children and pets safe from accidentally falling into the water.
• Pool Alarms: Consider installing pool alarms that can alert you when someone enters the pool area or when there is unusual activity in the water. Pool alarms can provide an extra layer of protection, especially when combined with other safety measures.

Insisting on a Diving Board

If you want a diving board, then you need a deep end. This costs more than a smaller, shallow-only design, leads to more safety issues, and might cause your homeowners’ insurance to go up. Plus, many pool owners find that the deep end gets significantly less use than the shallow end. Diving boards can add a sense of fun and excitement to your pool experience, but it’s important to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision.

Pros:

• Enhanced Pool Experience: A diving board can provide a thrilling experience for swimmers, especially those who enjoy jumping and diving into the deep end of the pool.
• Entertainment Value: Diving boards can be a source of entertainment for both kids and adults, making your pool the go-to spot for gatherings and parties.
• Aesthetics: Diving boards can add a visually appealing element to your pool design, making it stand out and adding a touch of uniqueness.

Cons:

• Safety Concerns: Diving boards come with inherent risks, as users can collide with the pool’s sides or hit the bottom if they misjudge their jump. This is a significant concern, particularly for families with children or inexperienced swimmers.
• Increased Liability: Including a diving board may result in higher homeowners’ insurance premiums, as it can be considered an additional risk factor. It’s essential to consult with your insurance provider to understand the potential impact on your policy.
• Potential Pool Design Limitations: Diving boards require a deep end pool design to ensure sufficient water depth for safe diving. If you prefer a shallower pool design, incorporating a diving board may not be feasible.

Choosing the Wrong Builder

Building a new pool is tough enough without an inexperienced or untrustworthy contractor running your project. Be sure to check for reviews to make sure that you find a trusted builder that you can depend on. Choosing the wrong builder can cause unwanted delays or even worse, some mistakes in construction that can end up costing you money down the line in repairs. 

Choose a reputable and experienced professional who can deliver the quality workmanship you expect. Look for a builder who understands your vision, communicates effectively, and is committed to meeting deadlines. Doing thorough research, checking customer reviews, and asking for recommendations will help you make an informed decision.

Conclusion

As you embark on the journey of building your dream pool, it’s essential to avoid these common pool-building mistakes. Take the time in the early stages to ensure that your pool meets your specific needs and requirements, without breaking the bank.

Ultimately, the success of your pool construction process lies in careful planning, informed decision-making, and a clear understanding of the associated costs. By considering factors such as function, location, safety features, and the pros and cons of diving boards, you can create a pool that not only adds value to your property but also becomes a source of joy and relaxation for years to come.

To make your pool the very best it can be, consider high performance pool coatings from ecoFINISH.