With summer coming quickly, many are looking for ways to beat the heat. The pool is the classic summertime accessory that everyone looks forward to when it’s hot out. If you do not have a pool or are looking for one, there are many factors to take into consideration, like above ground or inground pool?
In the following article, we’ll go over everything you need to know in order to get a new inground pool. From start to finish, we’ll cover all the details of choosing which type of pool is best for your family, what the building process looks like, and everything else to help you in purchasing an inground pool.
Why Choose an Inground Pool?
The inground pool is the best choice for homeowners that are looking for a strong investment into their home. They offer great value in terms of durability, appearance, and functionality.
An inground pool is one that is built into the ground. These tend to be much more difficult to install because of the work that must go into digging out a hole for it. However, inground pools are incredibly strong and last for decades if looked after properly. They are also more aesthetically pleasing than many other pools because they show off the whole pool instead of just the top.
Inground pools often come with many features you won’t find on aboveground models such as waterfalls, diving boards, slides, and game tables. If you’re looking for a pool that gives you much more than just a place to swim, inground pools are the way to go.
How Much Does it Cost to Install an Inground Pool?
Pool construction costs will differ, but a standard inground pool in Southern California will cost an average of $35,000. That’s only a basic pool, though. The prices may be as low as $20,000 or rise up to $195,000 depending on your swimming pool’s type, location, and customization level.
When considering what kind of inground pool you are wanting and how much it will cost, there are many factors to be aware of. Some factors that will affect your pool estimate include the following:
- Design
- Ground conditions
- Access
- Finishes
- Pool contractor
- Extra features
- Cleaning System
All these factors contribute to the overall cost of your dream pool. Because inground pools are so customizable, the only definite way to get an accurate estimate is to speak with a local pool contractor.
What Kinds of Inground Pools are There?
If you’re looking for inground pools, there are several kinds to choose from. It’s important that you understand each type and what they offer so you can find the best inground pool for your needs. There are four types of inground pools, including fiber glass, concrete, vinyl, and alternative finishes.
Fiber Glass
Fiber glass inground pools are incredibly popular because they are made of high density, cross-linked polyethylene that gives them strength and flexibility. Fiber glass pools are less likely to rust and corrode compared to other inground pool models. They also give the appearance of a seamless construction which is more aesthetically appealing.
Fiber glass pools are typically sold as a large, one-shell piece that is then positioned in your backyard with a crane. Because they are one-shell pieces, fiber glass pools are not often custom-made and are typically chosen from what the manufacturers have already built. The building process of fiber glass pools is quick and can be the perfect option if you are looking for a quick installation.
Concrete
Concrete inground pools are much less common than fiber glass because they’re typically more expensive and take a longer time to install. They do tend to be the most durable option and can last for decades without breaking or rusting.
Concrete and plaster are the most popular in-ground pool construction materials, having been used since the beginning of residential pools. Concrete is strong, porous, and long-lasting. The plaster-coated shell holds water, provides stability, and may be rebuilt when necessary, which adds to its longevity.
Vinyl
Vinyl inground pools are the most affordable option and can be custom-fit to your backyard. They may not last as long as concrete inground pools, but they typically only need a vinyl inground pool replacement every 20 years or so. They’re also less likely to corrode compared to fiber glass inground pools.
Alternative Finishes
Alternative inground pool finishes have grown in popularity over the years and embody a new way to think of inground pools. Alternative inground pool finishes include Pebble Tec, Aqua Tile, PolyStone, and Algae Free. They’re long lasting compared to vinyl inground pools and some even provide synthetic rock features that give them a more natural appearance.
What is the Pool Building Process?
Once you decide on what type of pool you want and which company to use, you’ll discuss your dream pool design with the team. Some companies, like Pool Icons, will give you a 3D rendering of the final look. The pool contractor will then obtain permits so that work may begin.
The service provider will then describe the pool’s form and location, as well as start digging and installing all required steel, plumbing, and electrical work. The concrete (or shotcrete, if you prefer) will be poured after that, along with any tiles, decking, and interior finish choices. After testing all components of the pool, the group will declare it ready to swim in.
How Long Does Construction Take?
Construction of a pool can take anywhere from six to twelve weeks. The design, size, depth, and shape of the pool you are planning have an impact on how long it takes. Furthermore, if any water or sewage pipes need to be relocated, that may extend the time it takes to build.
The amount of preparation required for the construction, as well as the current workload of the builder and the time it takes to raze a location, might cause things to take longer.
Another detail that goes unnoticed in the construction process is paperwork. It may take somewhat longer to get started if your county or HOA needs permits or other permissions.
What Maintenance Does an Inground Pool Require?
In addition to basic pool care, inground pools require a monthly maintenance check that includes checking the water chemistry and checking for any equipment issues. Check valves should be checked to make sure they are working properly, as should other pool equipment such as pumps.
An inground pool typically requires a once-a-year professional cleaning, as well as a monthly inground pool chemical treatment. In addition, pools require some level of care every month that may include brushing the side walls and vacuuming the bottom of the pool.
Which Kind of Pool is Best for You: Chlorine, Salt, or UVO System?
Most people know about the use of chlorine to sanitize your pool, but what some may not know is that there are other sanitization options such as using salt or UltraViolet Ozone (UVO) Systems.
Chlorine
For decades, chlorine has been the most widely used pool cleaning solution. It’s quick and affordable to use. Chlorine destroys mold, mildew, and germs in a few hours, allowing you and your family to safely swim in the pool. Chlorine tablets are readily available and are usually dispersed through the pool pump or a detached floating device.
Salt
This system requires that you initially dissolve a large amount of salt into your pool, then uses electricity to transform the salt into chlorine. Because the salt level in the pool water is fairly constant, you only need to add small amounts over time, saving time and effort on continual adjustments.
UVO Systems
A UVO system utilizes ultraviolet light to sanitize your pool water by sending it through chambers where it receives UV “blue light.” This process kills the bacteria and other harmful organisms lurking in the water. UVO systems are initially expensive to install, but regular maintenance is almost nil.
How Pool Icons Can Help You
Pool Icons is an inground pool design and construction company that strives to provide customers with high quality pools. In addition to installing pools, Pool Icons also offers inground pool refurbishment and renovation services for pools that are old, outdated, or worn down.
If you want to learn more about how pool contractors can make your dream pool a reality, contact Pool Icons today for a free estimate! Simply fill out the online form, and an experienced representative will get back to you promptly.
