Now that summer is in full swing, many homeowners wish they had spent the last few months building a private oasis in their backyard. Don’t wait until next year to make that dream your reality. Instead, enlist the help of custom pool builders to start designing your backyard resort.
For many homeowners, now is the best time to ask, “Should I get a pool?” Whether you are sick of noisy days at the public pool, ready to spend quality family time poolside or want to transform your backyard into a tropical getaway, look no further than Stevenson Brothers, Inc.
As Utah’s premier swimming pool builders, we understand the ins and outs of residential pool design. We compiled everything you need to know about custom pool designs to ensure you feel comfortable enough to take the backyard pool plunge.
Before installing a pool or asking swimming pool builders for estimates, here are five things you need to know before signing a contract.
Finances
One of the most crucial things to consider before enlisting the help of a custom pool builder is estimating how much it would cost. You should consider these expenses beforehand to ensure that you comprehend the full scope of the project.
Knowing the approximate cost of a custom pool installation will also minimize your chance of being surprised when your custom pool contractor sends you your bid.
A few of the finances you should consider include:
Cost of Construction
The cost of construction is by far the most important financial consideration you will have to make. Certain expenses will add up depending on the type of pool you choose to install, including time, labor, material costs, extra amenities, and more. While the cost of building is high, compared to the benefits of owning a custom pool, the benefits frequently outweigh the financial cost.
Property Value
Most families and property owners consider pools to be an add-on that raises the value of your home. In most cases, installing a swimming pool will raise the value of your home. Understanding this standard may help alleviate the stress caused by the upfront financial cost.
Property Taxes
If you choose to install an in-ground pool, you will also face a rise in property taxes in addition to the cost of owning a swimming pool. On the other hand, some states don’t consider above-ground pools permanent structures, making them tax-free. Your state could have a lower tax for residential swimming pools if the weather impacts swim season.
Insurance
Make sure you have enough insurance coverage before you begin construction. Doing so will ensure you have coverage during the construction process. It would help if you also investigated several different insurance prices, such as fire insurance (which may reduce after installation).
Utilities
The cost of utilities is another factor to consider. You should expect a higher monthly payment for everything from water to heating and electricity. You can get a ballpark figure by contacting your utility company or asking local pool owners.
Maintenance and Upkeep
Along with utilities, you need to think about the financial obligations that come with owning and maintaining a pool. It would be best if you also accounted for the cost of sanitation equipment and cleaning products. You will have the option of doing it yourself or hiring a pool cleaning service.
Site Location and Zoning Laws
After thinking about all the financial aspects of a custom pool, you should decide on the specific site you want your custom pool builder to install it on. Remember that a swimming pool will drastically alter the appearance and atmosphere of your property.
There are a few things to consider while choosing a pool location, whether you want to build an outdoor pool or transform your backyard into a private oasis. Some of the factors you will need to check include:
Building Codes
These codes establish minimum construction standards, including design features and materials. To learn more about your possibilities, contact your local institution as soon as possible. Your custom pool builder can also help you further understand what you will need to make your project up to code.
Health & Safety Codes
In your area, you may be required to follow special laws on water quality, lifesaving equipment, and protective fences and gates.
Deed Restrictions and Zoning Laws
What are the permits, laws, and rules you must enforce to abide by these rules? For example, are you able to put up a fence around your pool? Are you part of an HOA? Make sure you are familiar with the specifics of your property, such as your homeowner’s association’s laws or your available building space.
Weather
Another factor to consider when building a custom pool is the weather conditions of your area. Are you concerned about cold weather and snow? Consider an indoor pool or accept that your pool may only be open during certain times of the year. It would also help if you considered your property’s exposure, particularly in terms of sun, shade, and wind.
Landscaping
If you want to install an outdoor pool, you must also consider the surrounding environment. Working with custom pool contractors, you can create a design that considers all the following:
- Dimensions of your property
- Locations of decks, patios, walkways, fences, walls, eating spaces, pool houses, and other structures
- Easement locations
- Sun and wind patterns
- Potential issues outside lot lines, such as privacy, view, and sun restrictions
- Lot contours
- Natural features, such as soil types, damp places, and trees
Working with Stevenson Brothers, we can assess your property and suggest the optimal site location. We will also work with you throughout the project to ensure that everything meets government and safety regulations.
Maintenance
Routine maintenance is essential to have a clean and fully functional custom pool. Many pool owners don’t consider how much upkeep their new pool will require.
Our swimming pool builders recommend developing a weekly and monthly swimming pool care checklist to ensure you get the most out of your backyard getaway.
As you create your own plan, keep in mind the chemistry of your pool, the places that tend to have the most problems, and how the weather in your area may affect your system.
To get started, consider weekly duties that will go a long way toward keeping your pool safe, clean, and ready for all users. Then, monthly and seasonally.
If your custom pool has additional elements like waterfalls, slides, fountains, or lighting, you’ll need to think about how you’ll maintain it.
To help make your custom pool maintenance easy, our team created a quick checklist. Here is what you should know.
*Keep in mind that this information is only for educational purposes. Follow the knowledge you gain as you learn how your pool works. Any products you put into your pool should be used according to the recommendations on the label.
Custom Pool Maintenance Checklist
Regular Pool Maintenance (2-3x per week)
- Empty pool skimmer and pump basket
- Vacuum pool (if using an automated vacuum clear vacuum and check that it is working properly)
- Brush sides and bottom of the pool
- Make sure that any dirt or particles are loosened from the inner pool surface
Weekly Pool Maintenance (1x per week)
- Remove any large debris from the pool
- Add chlorine, salt, or other pool sanitizers
- Check water levels to ensure proper operation
- Test and adjust chemical levels
- Inspect pool water for clarity, color, and other visible issue symptoms
- Remove floating leaves with a water scoop
- Rest and adjust pH
o Standard pH ranges should lie between 7.3- 7.6 depending on your surrounding environment and pool chemistry.
o If your pH levels are too high, lower them using a pH decreaser using the product label for the correct dosage.
o If the levels are low, add pH increaser using the labels for dosage.
o Do not correct your pH levels more than once a week.
- Test chlorine levels
o Free chlorine levels should lie between 1 – 3 ppm
o Free bromine levels should lie between 3 – 5 ppm.
- Test and adjust alkalinity
- Test and adjust oxidizer and stabilizer levels
- Check filter pressure and backwash
- Add algaecide, if necessary
- Shock the pool, if necessary
Monthly Pool Maintenance (1x per month):
- Test and adjust calcium hardness
- Test and adjust total dissolved solids
- Test the total alkalinity (range of 120 – 150 ppm)
- Clean the pool filter
- Inspect the details of the exposed pool element, like tile, grout, sealant, etc.
- Conduct a Langelier Saturation Index Evaluation and adjust accordingly
- Test salt and chlorine levels
- Check for damage, including handrails, steps, and other elements of your pool
- Check the seals in motor and pump
When performing pool maintenance, make sure to inspect everything thoroughly. All of these can help you avoid expensive repairs or improvements. You can also contact a professional service, whether scheduling routine maintenance, closing for the winter, opening for the summer, or repairing broken parts.
Construction Process & Timeline
One of the most common questions our custom pool builders hear is, “How long will it take to build my new pool?” While the answer isn’t always cut and dry, the average timeline to build a custom pool ranges from 6-10 weeks.
Your approximate timeline will depend on the time of year you choose to build, location, pool type, and project complexity.
Most homeowners start thinking about putting a custom pool in their backyard when the weather starts getting warm. However, most swimming pool contractors have a waitlist.
If you don’t get on the schedule early, you can expect to wait until the following year to have your new pool up and running.
Our team recommends calling as soon as possible to discuss building a custom pool, especially if you are installing landscaping and other outdoor amenities, as well.
You will want to give your landscaping some time to regenerate and look attractive again. That is why we recommend building your pool by the end of winter to give your landscape time to recover and bloom in the spring.
Plus, concrete sets better in colder temperatures. A bonus that will make your new custom pool more structurally sound.
Custom Pool Designs & Types
One of the most appealing aspects of working with a custom pool builder is the freedom to create a totally unique design. Your custom pool can be whatever shape, style, and size you want it to be, whether basic, freeform, has a live edge, or something else.
The design is entirely up to you. Do you want a shallow section to let your grandkids play? Would a waterfall complete your vision? No matter what you want, your swimming pool contractor will work with you to make it a reality.
Use your imagination! It doesn’t matter if your pool is square, kidney-shaped, round, or anything in between. It’s simple to find a style that complements the design and feel of your yard. A few options you will decide include:
- Shape
- Free-form pools have a curving organic shape that resembles a shoreline and are designed to seem like ponds or natural bodies of water. What a way to unwind!
- Rectangular pools are a popular choice for both exercise and recreation.
- Geometric pools use 90-degree angles and symmetrical curves, making them ideal for a more modern and edgy look.
- Custom waterfall
- Tanning ledge
- Diving board
- Slide
- Underwater benches
- Shallow beach-style entryway
- Sports areas for water volleyball or basketball
- Swim-up bar
- Outdoor kitchen
- Deck
- And more!
How to Find a Custom Pool Builder Near Me
Careful planning is one of the best ways you can assure you have a flawlessly executed project. One of the best things you can do for your project is contracting the help of a professional custom pool builder to ensure you get the job done right.
If you are looking for a custom pool builder in your area, here are a few tips to get the process started.
- Search directories
- Find a certified swimming pool builder with insurance
- Look up reviews and ask for referrals
- Interview candidates
- Read the contract in detail
- Listen to your gut
Stevenson Brothers: Utah Custom Pool Builders
Stevenson Brothers, Inc. provides a wide range of landscaping, interior, and external space customization possibilities. Our firm finds the ideal balance between your personal style and the specific requirements of your yard.
For over 30 years, we’ve been designing and developing personalized resort experiences for both residential and business clients. Our one-of-a-kind approach to resort-style landscaping and swimming pool development gives our clients a better lifestyle than they could have imagined.
From start to finish, we will collaborate with you to create a one-of-a-kind resort-style experience that you will enjoy all year long. Trust us to provide a range of customizable service features, cutting-edge technologies, and unique designs. Our landscaping, swimming pools, and waterfalls are designed to transform your property into a private resort.
Because we are a family-owned business, we put our stamp of approval on every job to ensure that you receive a product that you will enjoy.
Stevenson Brothers, Inc. is the one company that can handle everything for you.
Contact us or call today at (801) 820-0783 to build the backyard of your dreams.
