Why is it crucial to nail down the perfect pool location and size?
As we embark on the design journey for a new swimming pool, there are numerous factors to consider, such as location, style, finishes, costs, and compliance.
We regularly get asked during a site consultation these top 5 questions about a new swimming pool.
Where is the best place to put our new pool?
LOCATION:
Selecting the ideal location goes beyond just any spot in the backyard. It involves a thorough assessment of various elements:
– Environmental considerations, such as existing trees on your property and your neighbour’s’.
– Determining the optimal position for maximum solar exposure.
– Analysing the topography of your garden and how the pool will impact drainage.
– Ensuring a seamless connection to outdoor living spaces, avoiding isolation or overshadowing of the yard.
– Carefully planning the placement of the pool fence and equipment.
What form, materials, and overall aesthetic should we apply to our pool?
STYLE & FINISHES:
Exploring design options, from sleek square edges to elegant curves.
Considering the difference in the material finishes and the flexibility in design of concrete swimming pools versus fibre glass shells.
For a concrete swimming pool the customer is choosing between fully tiled surface, pebble lining with waterline tiles, or a luxurious Hydrazzo finish. There is a wide range of options out there to choose from so experienced designers will help guide you on the best products to suit the style and budget of your new pool.
What are the costs involved in a new swimming pool?
COSTS:
From the initial stages to completion, accounting for all expenses, including the essential pool fence as a mandatory cost. Make sure all components in the delivery of a new pool are covered. Design, compliance, Excavation and spoil removal, power, sewer access, filtration etc. It’s important to start with a realistic understanding of what the total cost of the project will be.
Do we need approval to build the new swimming pool
COMPLIANCE:
Ensuring that the pool can be constructed as designed, adhering to regulations on pool fencing and safety measures. You will need approval through council via a Development Application (DA) or Complying Development Certificate (CDC). Using a professional to guide you through this process will ensure the timelines for the build are accurate and it will limit the unknowns that slow down building.
How do we heat the pool?
HEATING OPTIONS:
If you’re looking to heat the pool to extend your swimming season then there are a couple of options. Gas, electric or solar.
Gas – If you are putting in a new spa with your swimming pool then Gas will be required to heat the spa. This is so you can turn it on and have it heated quickly. The cost of operation can be high with gas but you will get quick results.
Electric – The most common form of heating is using an electric heat pump for the main body of the pool (note that the electric heat pump is not adequate for heating a spa). We find that 80% of our customers choose to use an electric heat pump, it can provide consistent heat to the swimming pool in the shoulder seasons and isn’t reliant on the sun to be shining to work efficiently.
Solar – If you like the idea of solar then there are some options for you, the cost of install is similar to the electric heat pump however you are reliant on sunshine to get warmth in the water. A good option is to install solar panels on the roof of the house and use that to run an electric heat pump and you get the added benefit of solar all year round.
To learn more about how the Fifth Season Landscapes design team can help create your new pool and landscaping project contact us now.
