To Pool or Not to Pool

Tingen ConstructionCustom Home Building

One of the best things about a custom home is the freedom to choose what you want. You don’t have to remove someone’s ugly 90s wallpaper, or replace fixtures, or repaint cabinets. But this also extends to much bigger features: maybe you want a porch, a sunroom, or some other special area.

One of the most luxurious and fun features to add to your home is a pool! They’re ideal for entertaining and relaxing and can transform your home into the neighborhood’s summer hotspot. But before you dive in (pun intended), there’s a lot to think about.

Cost

So the first question: how much does a pool cost?

The answer is a bit complicated. It depends on how big the pool should be, what features you want (like a hot tub or waterfall), and what’s going on underneath your soil. But according to Forbes, you’re looking at $45,000 at the minimum.

That’s also just the cost of the pool itself. When you factor in landscaping, maintenance, furniture, and other trappings, the cost can easily climb to six figures. While it does increase the value of your home by as much as 7%, you should only get a pool if you personally want to use it.

Maintenance

Pools are not easy to maintain. While you can pay a professional to do it, learning about it can 1) save you unneeded expenses and 2) ensure you know if the pro’s work is good. Some things to consider:

  • The water itself. Skimming needs to occur daily, and chlorine levels have to be checked at least twice a week.
  • The liner. If your pool liner gets holes in it, you’re looking at potentially catastrophic groundwater damage.
  • The filter. Cleaning intervals vary, but can be as often as weekly or as frequently as every 3 months. Deep cleanings have to be done annually.

Safety

Pool safety is no joke, especially if you expect kids to come swim. Some states require a fence immediately around the pool to prevent kids from falling in. Pool alarms can serve as a backup for particularly clever visitors. A pool net or cover is also a very good idea.

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Founded in 1980 by veteran home builder Dan Tingen, Tingen Construction has made beautiful custom homes across the Triangle for decades. Our roots in the community and mastery of modern building techniques make us uniquely positioned to build your dream home. Contact us today to get started, or check out our current listings!