Who wouldn’t love a swimming pool in their own garden? Except for those who of course prefer indoor pools.
From the moment someone mentions a pool, we plan hours of fun and excitement in hot summers.
The truth is, everyone is so blinded by the positive aspects of a pool that they fail to realize that there are negatives to owning one.
We agree – it sounds like a fairy tale to own an outdoor pool in hot regions. But what happens to a temperate climate? Did you think that a pool is only used in summer, but has to be cleaned and cared for equally in every season?
Image source: Cipriano Landscape Design & Custom Swimming Pools
If you compare all of the costs, safety concerns and maintenance measures to the recreational value of your investment, you can change your mind. This is exactly why we have put together the advantages and disadvantages of a swimming pool in your garden.
advantages
You own a cool place
Image Source: A Specialty Landscaping, Pools & Hardscape
It is difficult to sort pools into a list of advantages and disadvantages of outdoor swimming pools as they are a want and a whim, much more than a necessity.
While there is no one-size-fits-all definition of what “cool” is; A pool is unlikely to inspire people to come to you. Didn’t we all have this cool friend with a pool? Whose house did we spend hours and hours in?
With a pool, you are likely to be organizing the most memorable birthday parties and community barbecues as well. Even when people aren’t swimming, the pools have amazing and relaxing views.
You have a training facility
Image source: Harold Leidner landscape architects
Pools aren’t just about fun and entertainment. They give you the opportunity to swim professionally and keep your body fit and healthy. Aqua aerobics is also an excellent method for weight management.
A pool is especially good for children who like to spend time relaxing and playing. Also, have you forgotten that we all get childish for the magic of night swimming, with pleasant music and a sky full of shining stars? It is a completely acceptable level of childliness!
You have a luxurious oasis
Image source: Pool Environments, Inc.
In terms of beauty and elegance, well-designed pools are invincible. If you had applied suitable colors (sapphire, crystal) or tiles in geometric patterns, you gave your space a real touch of luxury.
If you decorate the pool with sun decks, stone paths, sculptures or plants, you can create a holiday atmosphere from the comfort of your own home.
The atmosphere becomes even more impressive for those who have a rich garden into which the pool blends. Magical isn’t it?
You own an expensive house
Image source: Pool Environments, Inc.
There are many expensive purchases that you could add to your home to add value. But nothing is as powerful as a large outdoor pool. A pool is a durable and timeless feature that can always attract buyers’ attention.
That is precisely why we recommend that you consider the pool as a valuable asset that will make your dreams come true. and will never stop making your life more fun.
It is not uncommon for small houses with pools to reach a higher market price than their larger counterparts that do not have one.
Image source: Pool Environments, Inc.
Also, building a pool is very doable and affordable these days; and people prefer to look at it as an investment rather than a capricious expense.
Your pool evokes tropical feelings
Image source: Platinum pool maintenance
Wouldn’t you feel like you’re on a tropical island with a beautiful pool? Don’t stop with the pool – take care of the surroundings; and add greenery and furniture that can create a tropical feel.
The ultimate goal is to get a breathtaking oasis from the comfort of your own home.
disadvantage
You will face higher insurance costs
In the insurance industry, houses with large pools are referred to as “attractive nuisances”. This means that your place is popular and has a lot of people going to it. Unfortunately, this increases the cost of your insurance rooms.
Still, keeping your pool secret is not the best idea. Your insurance agent needs to be aware of its existence so that you don’t have any problems covering potential damage.
Information on the people living in Ireland can be found on the website https://www.theaa.ie for the best home insurance deal. AA Ireland’s insurance also covers the cost of repairing a pool (if the risks included in your policy damage it).
You are faced with high installation costs
Swimming pools have different price tags depending on the size, quality, or the specific needs of the owner. So only decide to invest if you are really sure that you can afford it.
Your first thought would be to save material; and to use vinyl or fiberglass instead of concrete. The real cost, however, is what everyone has to pay for: digging a pool in the back yard.
Also, don’t forget that installing a pool is a time consuming activity. and your garden will be inoperable for at least 2 months.
Your expenses go beyond making the pool
OK, let’s say you invested a few thousand dollars and built the most amazing pool ever. The reality is you still can’t use it: even if pumps or essential filters were included, the area around the pool wasn’t.
You need a deck, patio, or at least some seating to rest after a swim. Then a pool without balls, floats and similar toys will not be so pleasant.
In addition, pools require special safety aspects such as fences, covers or even pool alarms.
You have to take care of it
The more you use your pool, the higher the maintenance effort. Hence, you need to plan your conservation activities not only annually, but also monthly and daily.
First of all, you need to control the pH of the water (to protect yourself from high alkali and acid levels). Concrete pools require even more maintenance as they are not as resistant to algae growth and uncomfortable weather conditions.
Sometimes one filter is not enough. and you need to backwash the pool at least once per season. In all fairness, the best option is to hire a maintenance service, provided the price isn’t too high.
Failure to comply with your maintenance obligations can lead to serious health and safety issues. So make sure you are buying the right chemicals to balance the pH. and use them properly.
Improper deterrence can lead to serious illness or fail to protect swimmers from allergies and infections.
You have to think about security
Safety is the most important aspect of any pool. As the pool owner, you are responsible for everyone who enters the pool. and this responsibility increases when children are around.
Do not let the youngest in the pool at first! Secure it with gates or constant surveillance; and make a smaller pool for them to enjoy.
Remember that any accident or unpleasant event is your responsibility and it doesn’t really matter how or why it happened.
Buying safety features is a good start too: solid covers, functional alarms and child-resistant gates protect both the pool and people. The mandatory insurance policy is a great way to be prepared for whatever happens.
You will most likely have repair costs
People who have faced pool repairs (leaks, structural issues, or similar issues) share that this was their worst repair experience ever.
Remember, this can happen to you too! Even the newest and most expensive pools cannot guarantee longevity. Hence, you should consider inspections when using them. and during use.
You will be surprised by your utility bills
Both the water with which you fill the pool; and the energy pumps and filters need to keep the pool usable … cost. After you install a pool, your utility bills are never the same.
You likely won’t get the same amount that you invested
As mentioned earlier, pool houses are rated well in the market. and they cost more than those who don’t have a pool. However, don’t be fooled that reselling your home will get you back the investment.
Finally, you are selling a used pool that has been used and renovated. and you can’t ask people to pay the same price it would cost to install your own.
Once you’ve made a decision to sell your home, we recommend that you seek out a valuer. and ask him to estimate the real price of your pool at that moment.