Summertime heat got you beat? Sitting poolside is one definite way to escape the sweltering sun, but before you dive in too quickly make sure you consider the following things; if you don’t, you may find yourself in hot water.

Pool Size

The size of the swimming pool you need may be determined by a number of factors. What do you want to use it for? If you prefer working out or playing water polo to lounging, you might need a bigger pool. If you have children who don’t know how to swim, having a pool can be hazardous. Be sure to consider how accessible it is to your children if they aren’t able to swim. An above ground pool that a child can’t fall into may work best for you! Additionally, if you don’t have a large yard, you might need to designate a large percentage of your space to the pool; be mentally prepared to give up extra space for it and its necessary safety surroundings.

The pool size will vary depending on your home, needs, and lifestyle. Take into account what your needs are before committing to anything.

Aesthetic

Creating a backyard aesthetic may be very important to you. If you’re a plant enthusiast, for example, you might prefer a salt-water pool that won’t kill your tropical plants (in case there is any pool runoff). The color of the pool tiling matching your new pool patio furniture might be just the coordination and organization your backyard needed. The personalization is endless! You can build the pool to match the color and aesthetic of the house as a home design masterpiece.

There are a variety of shapes, water types, colors, and accessories to choose from at The Pool Store. Take your time and decide what you like. If planned carefully, you can craft a beautiful and relaxing environment right outside your window.

Installation and Maintenance

While the payoff might just be worth it, the cost of pool installation and maintenance is nothing to scoff at. According to research done by Fixr.com, one 32 foot by 16 foot in-ground swimming pool costs an average of $21,919 to build, and that’s just for the installation alone. This figure doesn’t include the cost of pool ladders, lights, accessories, or maintenance. Pool maintenance is estimated at $1,140 a year, or $95 a month, for chemical cleaners.

For a cheaper and less permanent solution, above ground pools start at around $100 and require an estimated $85 a month for maintenance. However, they do break more easily and look much less glamorous than their in-ground counterparts.