Before you decide on a design for your custom pool, there are several factors to consider. These factors include the location of your pool, sight lines from your house, and the amount of sunlight exposure. Adding lighting or water features can help you create a better view from your pool. The location of your pool is also important because it affects water temperature. Trees can block the sunlight or drop leaves into the water. In addition, it should be protected from wind exposure. The location of your pool can affect its use and your storage needs.
Choosing a turnkey operation for a custom pool
Before choosing a custom pool builder, you should find out how many projects they have completed. You also need to ask about their references. If you see a pool builder with a low number of references, you should avoid them. This is because it may mean that the company is new and doesn’t have any previous work to show.
A reputable company will have years of experience in the business and satisfied customers. They should be familiar with industry standards and know how to maintain a custom inground pool. You can always go online and look at examples of previous work to be sure they are up to the task.
While hiring a turnkey operation for your custom pool construction project is a great way to get a high-quality custom pool built, be careful not to hire a pool builder that does not do landscaping. Many pool builders don’t have the experience to do this. This can leave your yard with a pile of dirt and dead grass. You might have to hire a landscaper later on to fix up the yard.
Be wary of a turnkey operation if it promises you a completed custom pool in a few weeks. You want a company that has a long list of satisfied clients and a full schedule. Otherwise, you could end up with a contractor who lacks ongoing projects or is desperate for money. Also, make sure to look for a company that has the necessary staff to deal with seasonality and properly manage projects.
Before you start the design process, you should know where the pool will be built. Make sure to review any restrictions or overhead wires that might affect the construction. It is also a good idea to check if there are any restrictions or easements on the property. This way, your builder can work around these issues.
Getting approvals and permits
Before installing a custom pool, you will need to get approvals and permits. Some jurisdictions require a property plan, electrical and plumbing plans, and details about the pool pump. If you are planning to build a concrete or in-ground pool, you may also need to provide an engineer’s plan. If you are unsure about any of these details, you can contact a professional pool contractor who can help you organize the details and obtain the necessary permits without any hassles.
To obtain these approvals, you must fill out an application and submit the required amount of money. Different towns have different requirements for permits, and the fees may vary significantly. The application process may also require a home inspection. Some municipalities require a more thorough inspection and may even charge for it.
If you are planning to install a pool, you need to obtain a Pool and Spa Permit. This is required in most areas and usually takes around five to seven days to get. You can find out how long it will take by consulting your local building inspector or city government. You may also need to make a site visit, which can take a few days.
While homeowners often build custom pools without obtaining permits, they are at a major risk of being fined by municipalities. Many towns and municipalities impose heavy penalties if you fail to acquire the required permits before starting construction. Therefore, it is important to obtain all permits and approvals before beginning your build. Each municipality has different requirements for building permits, so you should check your local ordinances, zoning setbacks, and building plans before proceeding.
The most important step in the process is to contact your city government. Depending on where you live, you may need to obtain a building permit and an electrical permit. These permits are usually inexpensive, but they provide invaluable oversight. However, if you are not a resident of the city, you may not be able to obtain a permit for a pool in your town.
In addition to building permits, you will need to obtain approvals from your city or county. The city will want to see your design before you can start construction. If your property is in a floodplain, you may need special documents and a review meeting. Make sure to include a complete scope of work and the current owner’s information. If the property has recently been sold, you will also need to provide a copy of the deed.
Setting a budget for a custom pool
When you set a budget for a custom pool, you need to keep in mind all the expenses that your pool will incur during its lifetime. This includes cleaning, chemicals, and utilities. These expenses can add up to thousands of dollars over the years. You should also be aware of the time you’ll need to devote to the maintenance and cleaning of your pool.
The best way to get a realistic estimate of how much your custom pool will cost is to sit down with a trusted pool builder. He or she will be able to give you advice on how to cut construction costs, stay within your budget, and minimize your pool or hot tub cost per month. Be willing to listen to his or her recommendations and be flexible if you can. Also, be sure to save up a down payment for the project if you’re not able to pay it all at once.
The size of your pool will also play a role in your budget. Larger pools tend to cost more than small pools, and your budget should be adjusted accordingly. It’s also important to consider the shape of your pool, which may increase the overall price of the project. For example, a round pool may be cheaper than a square pool.
You’ll also need to think about what amenities you want your pool to have. Make a list of the amenities that are important to you. You can always add on optional upgrades in the future, but they’ll push up the cost. Decide what features are most important to you and your family.
You’ll also need a swimming pool permit. Depending on the city, this fee can range from $200 to $300. Be sure to get this permit before work begins. You’ll need to think about building regulations before putting up your custom pool, which may impact your budget. Also, be prepared to make changes to your scope of work if the requirements change.
Another factor that affects your budget when building a pool is the resale value. Although pools may add value to your home, they are not very attractive to prospective buyers. The price of a pool also affects the amount of yearly maintenance. Depending on the type of pool, fiberglass or saltwater pools have the lowest yearly maintenance costs. In addition to being attractive and functional, swimming in a pool is a great way to spend time with family and friends.
