The United States is home to about 10 million backyard swimming pools. The most common types of pools include temporary above-ground pools and inground pools lined with vinyl-lined, concrete, or fiberglass.
If you’re getting ready to build a pool on your property, read on to find out when to do it and what your return on investment could look like.
When’s the Best Time to Build a Pool?
If you want to install a pool to increase the home value of a new build, be sure to get the timing right. Not only do you need to consider things like electricity access, but you also need to keep the seasons in mind.
Pool for a New Build Home
You want to wait until the house’s exterior is mainly completed, enough that it can be connected to the electricity grid. A lot of the functions of a pool run on electricity. The installers need the power on to make sure everything’s working as it should.
You also want to get the pool in before the driveway and landscaping are completed. You don’t want earth-moving equipment tearing up a beautifully laid new lawn or concrete.
Installing a Pool in an Existing Home
After months of searching, you’ve finally found your dream home. The downside? It doesn’t have a pool.
If you think you might want to install a swimming pool in a home you’re about to purchase, get quotes before you commit to an offer. This way, you’ll know if it’s actually an affordable option in the near to mid-term future.
Take Advantage of Winter Prices
Everyone wants a swimming pool when temperatures rise and you’re desperate to cool off. So those savvy with pool-related home improvements shop in the winter months.
Installation costs, pool products, materials, labor… It all gets cheaper as the weather cools. There are often winter sales you can take advantage of, too.
Complete It Before Summer
If you’re spending a fair chunk of change on a pool, you want to make sure it’s ready to use by the time summer rolls around. Companies like Silver State Pool Service also advise a late winter or early spring build because it’s the down season. Permits, materials… everything comes through sooner.
How a Pool Boosts Home Value
Reliable home renovation sources report a well-design in-ground pool can add anywhere between 5 and 8 percent to your home’s value. For example, HouseLogic puts it at a 7 percent increase. The returns are particularly lucrative for those who live in neighborhoods where pools aren’t the norm or those with a high population of school-aged children.
However, a swimming pool on its own doesn’t necessarily provide a return. If the pool is old or poorly maintained, it can negatively affect you when you come to sell. The solution? If your property already has a pool, or you install one, be sure to keep up with pool maintenance.
This means cleaning it regularly and getting it serviced on at least an annual basis.
Why Build a Pool?
Perhaps you want to build a pool for your family to enjoy over the hot summer months. Or maybe you’re installing one to boost the value of a property you own. Whatever the reason, be sure to do your research on the type of pool you want, get at least five installation quotes, and pick your timing carefully.
Are you looking for more helpful homeowners advice? Dive back into our blog to read our other articles.
