How to Choose a Swimming Pool

Test the waters

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If the ocean is too far away and your local lake is murky as dishwater, you may want to consider buying a swimming pool to meet your aquatic needs. Luckily, swimming pools come in a variety of shapes and designs, which accommodate everyone from Olympic champions to splash-happy kids.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

A large area in your yard
Professional installers

Step1

Consider your budget. Cheaper pools have lower durability and smaller size. However, if your funds are limited, this may be the best option. The least expensive type is an above-ground pool, which requires level turf and some basic assembly, but little else. Although they have few features, most above-ground pools are perfect for providing a small family with an afternoon of fun.

Step2

Opt for an in-ground pool. Essentially, fiberglass pools are pre-molded basins dropped into a hole dug in your yard. This simplicity reduces the cost by diminishing support. However, for a more elegant and lasting solution, buy a gunite pool reinforced with a steel frame coated in a mixture of cement and sand. Typically, owners surround these pools with concrete patios or wooden decks for sunbathing or entertaining guests.

Step3

Determine a style. Most gunite pools are made for diving and come equipped with an 8-foot depth and diving board. If you live in an upscale community, or just want to achieve an elegant look, a geometric gunite pool is a great option. Some are outfitted with spa jets, heaters and perimeter overflows, although these features are very expensive.

Step4

Accent your yard with a natural design. Those with beautiful gardens and detailed landscaping may not want to clutter their yard with a standardized pool. In this case, the best course is to choose a freeform pool that has rock or sand borders and blends with the environment like a natural oasis.

Step5

Build your pool for performance. If you’re an athletic swimmer focused more on exercise than recreation, nothing beats a lap pool. This design is rectangular and long, usually in the range of 50-feet or better, and is perfect for training and fitness.