If you’ve imagined spending summers in your backyard to cool off, consider installing your own inground pool that you can enjoy for years to come. However, before making your choice, it’s important to consider the advantages and disadvantages before investing. Also, consider the size of your property, the intended use of the yard, and geographic location. The following are the Pros and Cons of having an inground pool.
Pros
The advantages of having a built-in pool are longevity, property curb appeal, group accommodation and spending quality time at home. Built-in pools are long-lasting due to the sturdy materials commonly used to build them, such as concrete, plaster, vinyl, fiberglass or stainless steel. They typically last for 20 to 25 years and can withstand seasonal weather. Due to this, inground pools do not wear as quickly as above-ground pools. In addition, installing a built-in pool contributes to the resale value of the home and property because it improves the appearance through landscaping and beautification, such as an accompanying deck and patio. Its size is another factor. An inground pool is larger than an above-ground pool and has a deeper depth with varying choices of shapes. It can accommodate large groups of people and provide room to swim laps. Having your own inground pool is also very convenient. Instead of traveling to a public place to swim, you can enjoy summer in your backyard using your pool for exercise, parties and staycations. You get the physical and mental health benefits of swimming right at home.
Cons
Although owning an inground pool can be an enjoyable asset, there are caveats that every homeowner considering the installation of a below-ground pool should be aware of. Expense, maintenance, and safety are three big factors, along with consideration of climate and yard space. Installation is expensive, and the installation process is lengthy. The average cost is between $28,000 and $55,000, and you are looking at weeks before it is ready to swim in. Consider a home equity loan rather than a credit card or cash payment. Once it’s installed, maintaining the pool is expensive, such as regular checks, cleaning and parts replacement. With components such as heaters, pumps, filters and chemical feeders, the average yearly cost for upkeep can cost about $4000. In addition, you will want to protect your family and others from serious injury and drowning. Due to its safety hazards to children and pets, you must take extra precautions, such as installing a fence around the pool and paying for additional insurance to protect you against liability.
Another consideration is the length of the swimming season and whether you are willing to give up yard space. Unless you live in a tropical climate, your season is much shorter, and there will be less time to enjoy your pool. When it comes to your backyard, will you miss the space the built-in pool will take up? Although the pool will aesthetically improve your property, you may have doubts about reducing yard space if you are interested in gardening or using it for other outdoor activities.
Installing an in-ground pool can add beauty to your property and provide many summers of leisure and enjoyment. However, it comes with a heavy price tag and hours of care. If you believe that the costs and care are a small sacrifice compared to what you can gain in resale value and seasonal enjoyment, installing an inground pool may be the right investment.
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