Should I Build a Swimming Pool?

You would think that residents from resort-filled places like Australia, Florida, and California would consider a swimming pool superfluous.

No, mate.

Australia, in fact, has the world’s highest number of swimming pools per capita. There are approximately 1.2 million private pools across the continent, with thousands being added every year. Pools make a thriving industry, constituting $1.5 billion in the nation’s gross domestic product.

Not to mention, "pool" was the number one search term in realestate.com.au last year.

Should you aspire to be like your wet and wild neighbours? Or should you be content visiting resort pools in summer? We’ll help you weigh this watery predicament:

Financial commitment

If you’re not as loaded as the Rich Kids of Instagram, then money would definitely be an object to you. Construction of a concrete pool would set you back by $30,000 to $300,000, although above-ground designs may just cost you anywhere between a few hundred dollars and $8,000.

You also need to factor in the cost of decking, landscaping, filtration, and lighting. You also pay extra for spas, fountains, patios, and other amenities. Every month, you need to shell out at least $50 for chemicals to treat the water. Seasonal changes also compel you to have your pool professionally closed and opened, a process that may cost up to $300.

There is also the cost of obtaining home warranty insurance, to cover you if the builder botches or fails to complete work.

Ground conditions

In building a pool, you have to consider the geological conditions of your lot. Unstable ground conditions may preclude you from having certain types of pools, if at all. Sites with steep slopes and rocky soil may compound building costs.

Also, your prospective pool must not touch drainage systems, underground cables, and utility pipes. If you have the money, however, you can negotiate with your local council to move these systems out of the way.

Space

Your pool is also at the mercy of the biome around it. Certain species of trees are protected in Australia; cutting them is against the law—even if they annoyingly rain leaves on your pool.

You are also legally bound to install child-resistant barriers around the area, among other safety requirements. If the lot is too small, or you reside in medium- to high-density properties, you may be better off with a lap pool or narrow plunge pool.

Conclusion

Pools have always been expensive, in terms of building it and then maintaining it. In the end, your love for swimming will override any hindrance to having a pool built. In fact, you don’t even have to love swimming to get your own private billabong; your household may enjoy the water more than you do. Or you can use the pool to host parties. Whatever your reason is, make sure it is the right one to building this costly, but ultimately fabulous investment.

Enjoy
Richard

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