Whether you’re interested in building an inground pool or an above ground pool, there are certain things you should know. In this article, you’ll learn how to grade your project site, acquire a residential building permit, and install a safety fence or safety gates. Lastly, you’ll learn how to maintain your new pool in the off-season.
Inground vs above ground pools
Whether you’re looking to buy a new pool for your home or want to improve the value of your property, you’re likely considering whether you should go with an inground pool or an above ground pool. Although they are both great options, there are several differences between the two.
First of all, inground pools have a longer lifespan. Typically, they can last up to 50 years. However, the average above ground pool only lasts about seven to fifteen years.
There are many advantages to having an inground pool. In addition to adding monetary value to your home, they also provide a great source of entertainment. They are a great way to get the whole family together. Having a swimming pool can also be a great way to encourage healthy lifestyle habits.
While they are more expensive, inground pools have the long-term benefits of being permanent and durable. If you have children, or a small yard, an inground pool might be a good option. Inground pools require professional installation, and you need to get permission from your neighbors.
While inground pools are more expensive, they also add value to your home. They are durable, and can be customized to meet the needs of your family. They are also a great choice for people with children who are weak swimmers.
Above ground pools, on the other hand, are a great way to have a swimming pool without spending a fortune. Although they don’t last as long as an inground pool, they are easier to maintain and install. They also come in a variety of sizes and shapes. In fact, they can be as big as inground models.
Know what’s underneath your project site
Having a good understanding of what’s underneath your project site when building a pool is essential for ensuring the long term success of your project. Fortunately, it’s easier than it seems. The key is to know what you’re getting into, and what to expect from your contractor.
There are many different factors to consider. For instance, the cost of building a pool varies greatly from region to region. You’ll also need to consider local council regulations.
The best place to start is with a site plan. It should include a zoning map, a block and lot layout, and details of the proposed pool. The details are critical for accurate planning, so don’t skimp on them. A site plan also helps identify utilities such as power lines and phone lines. Some of these might need to be relocated before your project is completed.
The best time to build a pool is during dry weather. The long range weather forecast can be a useful tool in planning a dig. If it’s raining heavily, the construction process may be delayed for days or even weeks.
The cheapest way to remove water from your construction site is to build a pump system. When in doubt, ask your contractor about the cost of this service. It’s worth the cost for the convenience and peace of mind.
A geotechnical study may prove valuable in helping you determine what’s underneath your project site when building a pool. The results can reveal potential problems and solutions. If you are building a new pool or renovating an old one, don’t forget to consult your builder about this.
Obtain a residential building permit
Whether you are building a new home, renovating your existing home, or constructing a new accessory structure, you must obtain a residential building permit before building a pool. This is important because you will be held to the same standards as contractors.
Typically, a homeowner must fill out a residential building permit application and submit it to the local municipality. These applications must meet all city, county, and zoning regulations.
When you apply for a building permit, you will need to provide your personal information. You will also need to provide two full sets of plans. These plans should include a plot plan showing the setbacks to your home and a site plan showing the dimensions of the pool, the dimensions of the structure, and any electrical, mechanical, or plumbing plans.
Your application will be reviewed by the Planning and Development Services Building Division. The Building Division will make sure that your residential building permit application complies with the city’s regulations. If you have any problems with your application, you will need to correct them before the permit is issued.
Some municipalities have special setback requirements for above ground pools. These setbacks can range from 5 feet to 20 feet. It is important to check with your local municipality to determine if you are required to get a residential building permit before building a swimming pool.
Depending on your municipality, a zoning and planning office may be at the town, city, or county level. If you have questions about the location of your zoning office, call the local town hall to verify.
Grade your project site
Having a properly graded project site may save you some headaches down the road. For example, a properly graded site will reduce the possibility of flooding, soil erosion and moisture penetrating the foundation. In addition, a properly graded site will provide you with some much needed peace of mind.
A proper site grading plan will also make for an easier and less expensive construction job. For instance, if you don’t plan your grading in advance, you might be surprised by the size of the excavation. Also, you will need to provide a place to store the materials you’re working with.
Besides, a properly graded site can save you from a disaster if one happens. In the event of an unfortunate downpour, a pool hole can quickly transform into a muddy mess.
There are several ways to grade your project site for a swimming pool. You can use topsoil, excavate, or create a lower-lying area. This list may not be exhaustive, but it should serve as a good starting point.
The most important part of the site grading process is the foundation. The foundation is the heart and soul of any structure. The grading process is best performed by an experienced contractor. If you are planning a pool, hire someone who has experience with swimming pool construction. This can save you both time and money, and the result is a pool that will last you for years to come.
Install a safety fence or safety fences
Adding a safety fence or safety fences to your pool is a great way to keep your children safe. But how do you know whether you need to install one or not? There are several ways to decide, including asking local pool fence installation companies or checking with your local building codes.
In addition to your pool’s safety fence, you should also install a primary barrier, such as a manual pool cover, an automatic pool cover, or fencing. The fence should be a minimum of four feet high around the pool. This is the height that most localities require.
If your pool is an inground pool, you can install a self-closing gate. These are the most secure method of access control. You will need to install an assembly with locking pieces on the inside and outside of the fence.
If you plan to build a pool fence yourself, make sure you have the proper tools. You will need a hammer drill and a Drill Guide. The Drill Guide will allow you to make precise angles during installation. You will also need a Core Drill and a Drill Guide for the pool fence.
You will also need the pool fence to be at least 24 inches from the water’s edge. This is the distance that most localities consider safe for children. This distance will give you more space to pull yourself out of the water if you are accidentally sucked in.
Keep the pool covered in the off-season
Keeping the pool covered in the off-season is an important part of swimming pool maintenance. It keeps debris and dirt out of the pool and can extend the life of your cover. Proper care of your cover can prevent a costly replacement. Below are some tips to keep the pool covered in the off-season.
One of the most important features of any cover is its ability to retain water. The water in your pool needs to be at a certain level in order for the cover to function properly. If the level is too low, it can damage the cover. In addition, if too much water accumulates on the top of the cover, it can damage the pool’s structure. If there are gaps in the cover, they could allow small living things to fall into the pool.
In addition, there are some features of a cover that are not as obvious. For instance, a solid security cover is a great way to keep debris from accumulating in your pool. These covers are secured to the deck with anchors and are typically made of vinyl.
There are also solid security covers that can be folded up when not in use. These covers have a lifespan of around two to four years. They have a water bag attached to the cover that prevents the cover from flapping in the wind. They can also be sturdier than standard pool covers.
