Choose Between an In-Ground or Above-Ground Model
The in-ground swimming pool is the most expensive option, partly because it requires digging a hole large enough to accommodate the pool and hauling that debris away. Some options include fiberglass shells of high quality, which has the ability to flex with ground movements. This means the pool walls will bend instead of cracking. The advantage with an in-ground pool is that it can be custom designed to accommodate the characteristics of your property.
The cheaper option is to choose an above-ground pool. These models are pre-made with a reinforced steel shell, while inside consists of a vinyl liner. Since these models are pre-made at a facility and delivered to the customer's home, there's no need for on-site construction. This, in itself, can save a significant amount on the installation of the pool. The vinyl liner can be replaced for far less and each liner can be expected to last from 10 to 15 years. In many cases, swimming pool contractors offer above-ground models in addition to custom-designed in-ground pools, so a consultation can help you decide which type of swimming pool is right for you.
Limit the Special Features of Your New Pool
In addition to the style of pool you select, the extras you add can have a significant impact on the overall cost of the pool. For instance, some property owners use this opportunity to install a large deck to compliment the pool. This might be best reserved for a second property-improvement project, which can do another time. Adding a deck to your pool can double or triple the cost, depending on your plans for the deck. For the time being, a minimal deck that meets your immediate needs can save you money. You can always expand later.
Adding a deep end to your pool can also drive up the costs, because it requires using more resources to construct the pool. Unless one of your current tenants is a competitive swimmer, you may not really need a pool with a shallow and deep end. Most property managers opt for a pool of modest depth, which can be installed without using excessive resources. You should also limit the features you add, such as colored lights, water jets, slides, and spas. While these additions may be trendy, they're also expensive. Again, you can upgrade your pool in the future.
Maintain Your Pool Yourself
Learning how to care for the pool yourself isn't just about saving you money. It can also help you learn about a system that's essential to the operation of your property. As you learn how your pool pump operates and what it takes to keep the pool water fresh and circulating, you'll become better able to address problems that may arise. This can help you get ahead of repairs that may be needed in the future, while also eliminating the need to hire a pool technician for tasks you can do yourself.
Your pump motor doesn't need to run all day every day. In fact, most experts recommend running the pool for just 8-12 hours daily, which can be divided up between the early morning and late evening hours. This will be enough to keep your pool clean, while keeping your electric bill lower and saving on the pump motor's wear and tear.
Finally, buy your pool chemicals in bulk. Buying these products by the pound will be cheaper than buying the smaller containers, which are often marked up to pay for the brand name. It's also very likely that you'll use all of the chemicals you do buy, especially if you buy the chemicals at the beginning of the season. This means you'll be making fewer trips to the store and you'll always have what you need on hand.
Choosing the right pool for your property and looking for ways to maintain it efficiently will help you save money in the present and as time goes by. There are many options available in constructing your swimming pool, so whether your concern is for saving money, going green, or complimenting the style of your property, you should have no problem finding what you need. In the end, you'll find that installing a swimming pool helped increase your tenants’ happiness and your property value, and that may be worth all the expenses.
