What homeowner doesn’t dream about having a backyard pool? It’s a tempting dream, having your own chlorinated oasis in your backyard where you can beat the heat, host parties and spend your days relaxing on lounge chairs in front of clear, sapphire-colored water. It could end up being just a dream, though, and for good reason: pools can be a major investment and commitment for homeowners.
Is getting a pool right for you? Is it that missing piece that will complete your backyard, or is it more trouble than it’s worth? Our landscaping experts at ABC Scapes are here to weigh in on this subject, offering the pros and cons of pool ownership. Keep this in mind the next time you have that sweet dream and see if it becoming a reality looks good to you.
PROS
Exercise and Recreation
They are a great source of low-impact exercise for children and adults. They can also have therapeutic value: Athletes often use aquatic exercises to help rehabilitate sports-related injuries because the water doesn’t put full pressure on their injuries. They’re also great for having a good time! You can host parties and play games, lounge out to tan in the sun, and use it to cool off on scorching summer days.
Home Investment
Having one can add to the value of your home. It adds a new permanent fixture to your home and can be a nice aesthetic addition to your backyard. It’ll make your house look more attractive to prospective buyers than a house without a pool, especially if you live in an area with a hot climate like here in Phoenix.
Less Backyard Maintenance
Depending on the size of it, having one can significantly reduce the size of your backyard. This can be a good thing for people who don’t want to have a lot of plants in their backyard, or are looking to activate empty yard space. You can still have trees, lawns and flowers, of course; you just have to take your backyard pool into consideration when you add these elements.
CONS
Installation
Building a pool in your backyard is a long process and a costly one. It could take two to three months to build, making your backyard useless for anything else during that period of time. And lest you think the only cost is the pool itself, think again. You’ll also need to get a filter and pump. And what if you want to add a deck or patio, pool house, lounge furniture or get floaty toys for the kids? You may also need to get a pool cover or fence, depending on who you share your home with.
Maintenance
They’ll need to be maintained and cleaned regularly, otherwise they can become a breeding ground for bacteria and algae. You’ll have to get it cleaned and check the pH levels consistently to make sure the acids and alkalines are balanced. An unclean pool can make swimmers sick and attract pests into your backyard.
If you have a concrete pool, that will require additional maintenance. Concrete pools are more prone to growing algae and having cloudy water. You’ll also have to frequently clean out your filter to keep it sanitary and running smoothly.
Child Safety
They can be dangerous around children. They can also pose a risk to anyone who doesn’t know how to swim. Homeowners can be held responsible for any pool-related injuries, so you’ll want to invest in securing it. Having proper door locks and safety fencing will make your backyard pool a safe space, but it will also be an additional expense you’ll have to deal with.
Have Backyard Pool Questions?
Need more help figuring out if a backyard pool is right for you? Our landscaping experts can give you the guidance and expertise you need to make the right decision. Call ABC Scapes at 602-404-0568.