How to Customize Your Pool Design with Input from Your Pool Builder
Going with a custom pool is the best way to get precisely what you want. However, what if the options are so overwhelming? What if you’re struggling to determine how to interpret your vision?
That’s where the expertise of a pool builder can help. With a more collaborative process, you will have the opportunity to voice your opinion and needs. The contractor will then guide you in making specific selections based on what you’re looking for. Here’s how you can make the most of your partnership and get the pool you’ve always dreamed of.
Know (and Own) Your Vision
Before you even contact a pool builder, decide on the purpose of your pool. A pool that’s primarily for exercise will be very different from one that’s meant for entertaining large groups of people. When you know how you plan to use your pool, it becomes a lot easier for the pool builder to tailor their recommendations.
Finding inspiration is another great way to start the design process. Peruse magazines, websites, social media, and maybe even the pool builder’s portfolio. Taking time to find inspiration is particularly useful when you have a broad idea of what you desire but find it difficult to express in words.
The Collaboration Process
Hiring the right pool builder is pivotal to a successful project. Schedule your initial consultation to get a feel for a prospective pool builder’s process. They should be more than happy to walk you through the entire process and answer any questions you might have.
Be open and honest about your ideas, ideal timeline, and budget. Even if you don’t select that pool builder, you can use their expertise to help refine your vision even further.
During the design phase, a pool builder will present various options based on your wants and needs, but you’ll still need to get more specific. Rarely will the collaboration hit the nail on the head during the first pass. Don’t feel discouraged if you need to redirect your builder or put your foot down about particular design elements. After all, it’s your pool!
The Heart of Your Pool Design
Now that you’ve decided which pool builder you want to work with, it’s time to get into the nitty gritty about your pool’s design. Here’s what you should cover during the discussion with your contractor.
Shape and Size
Pools come in many shapes. You might find the traditional rectangle appealing, or you may want something more tailored to your landscape. You can exercise a lot of freedom at this stage, provided you have the space for it. Size includes depth; shallower depths might work better if you’re using it primarily for relaxing, while avid swimmers will want deeper pools.
Materials
Every material has its benefits and drawbacks. Your pool builder will review your options and let you know why one would be a good choice over another.
Color and Finish
Part of the reason many homeowners decide on custom pool building is so they can truly make it their own, and that happens with the interior finish. Whether you’re interested in simple plaster or ornate tiling, your pool builder will have some initial choices for you to look over based on your preferences.
Features, Landscape Design, and Other Accessories
Discuss various features, like fountains, lighting, and heating systems, with your contractor. They’ll consider how to best implement these elements. You should also go over the important accessories like pool covers or handrails and where they’ll be located.
The Practical Side of Building a Pool
With the design elements out of the way, it’s on to the more serious side of pool building: the practical features. This part of the process may not be as exciting as picking out new tiles. However, it’s vital to review these options with the pool building company to help inform some of your design choices and know what’s possible.
Budget
It’s wonderful to have a grand plan for your pool, but you need the budget to back it up. Most custom dream pools come with a hefty price tag. Establish a firm budget early on so you can achieve your vision without overspending. Pool builders can also help direct you to alternative materials or features that could maintain your vision while keeping you within your budget.
Maintenance
Consider the cost and effort involved in long-term maintenance. Talk to your builder about how much maintenance each type of pool material would require. Natural stone looks great but often needs more upkeep than plaster.
Local Regulations
Your design won’t be able to move forward if it doesn’t comply with local regulations and permitting requirements. Fortunately, pool builders are often familiar with the ins and outs of adhering to regulations. They can easily guide you through the steps and provide upfront feedback regarding whether something will be possible based on local laws.
Refine Your Design With Your Pool Builder
Your pool builder will take the information you provide and come back to you with a preliminary design. Review it carefully, and don’t be afraid to make adjustments to ensure the pool meets your standards.
If you’re satisfied with the design, talk with your builder about the installation logistics. The discussion should include topics like timeline, costs, and scope of work. You can use their estimates as a roadmap for your project to keep your expectations in line. This is particularly true of the timeline since the construction can disrupt your daily life.
Get a Pool That’s All You With Tampa Bay Pools
All that’s left is to team up with a pool builder who knows how to seamlessly mesh their expertise with your desires and needs. Hire a pool-building company that celebrates your vision and does whatever it takes to get you what you want.
That’s what we promise to deliver at Tampa Bay Pools. Contact us today to learn more about the customization process and book a consultation to discuss your vision.