How to Design a Swimming Pool Enclosure

Adding an enclosure to your pool will increase its usefulness as well as the value of your home. However, even an enclosure built from a kit is a large, expensive undertaking, so you need to plan carefully to make sure you get exactly what you want from your enclosure.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Make a list of the features you want your enclosure to have, including things like movable panels, walls, space for a seating area and the material you want to build it from. Note whether you would like the enclosure to be freestanding or connected to your home.

2. Determine your budget. A simple enclosure for a small swimming pool could run as much as $10,000, with more elaborate, high-quality enclosures costing several times that amount. You'll want to get the best possible quality to fit your needs, so make sure you can afford it before you get your hopes up.

3. Measure your swimming pool. Include height above the level of your pool in your measurements if you have a diving board or slide. Then, measure the additional space around the pool that you would also like to cover. This will give you an idea of how large your enclosure will be.

4. Consult with a local pool supply store, where you can get advice and order specific enclosures. Search the Internet as well, as several companies make simple enclosures that can easily transform your home, such as AquaShield.com (see Resources below).

5. Get quotes from several different construction companies. Quotes should be free and will give you a better idea of how much your project will cost. Lower the quote by making sure each builder knows they're bidding competitively against other companies.

6. Ask for examples of builders' work. Most will offer a portfolio of designs they have completed.

7. Look for designs created specifically for the region in which you live. For example, some designs are built to withstand cold winters, while others are designed with high winds in mind, such as those at PoolPatioEnclosures.com (see Resources below).

8. Make sure the materials will hold up after years of exposure to the pool environment. High humidity, chlorine and other factors could damage your enclosure, particularly since many enclosures are built using an aluminum frame. Manufacturers such as DynaProducts use a special powder-coating technique designed to increase your enclosure's lifespan (see Resources below).

9. Ask about safety features, especially if you have children. Some designs include locking mechanisms or doors.

10. Add a dehumidifier to your design. In some small pool areas, fans and windows could provide relief from high humidity, but it's best to install a dehumidifier. This will prolong the life of your enclosure and everything in it.

11. Figure out how you will heat the enclosure. Many enclosures count on the pool's heat and the sun, but if you live in an area where it gets cold during the winter, you likely won't be able to use your pool unless you have another heat source for the room.

12. Make sure you know whether the enclosure will be installed and assembled for you. Many simple enclosures will not be installed, but more ornate enclosures, such as those from Solar Innovations include the price of shipping, assembly and installation (see Resources below).

13. Buy your enclosure from a manufacturer, or make a deal with a construction company, only after checking the company's credentials with the Better Business Bureau (see Resources below).

14. Get all deals, changes and warranties in writing before the project begins.

Tips & Warnings

• While pool and spa enclosures can be expensive, they will help you save some time and money in pool maintenance. Because they keep out debris and help maintain heat, you will need to clean and heat your pool less often.
• While hiring a local builder might seem more expensive than ordering from an online company, you will likely get better service and be able to customize your design more. This is ideal for people who are not do-it-yourself-ers or who don't have time for a lot of research, as a professional builder will answer all of your questions.
• Many enclosures are made of glass, though there are some that are constructed of screens. Glass enclosures work well in a warm area where bugs and debris are a concern.

Resources

• AquaShield
• PoolPatioEnclosures.com
• DynaProducts
• Solar Innovations
• Better Business Bureau