Top 5 Things to Know Before Installing a Swimming Pool
Installing a swimming pool in your backyard can completely transform your home, offering a private retreat for family fun and relaxation. However, with so many options available, it’s important to choose the right pool that suits your needs and lifestyle. If you live in Rochester, NY, there are a few unique considerations to keep in mind when selecting a pool that will stand up to our climate and enhance your backyard.
In this post, we’ll explore the top 5 considerations when choosing a swimming pool for your home, and why fiberglass pools may be the perfect choice for your property in Rochester, NY.
1. Budget and Costs: Understanding the True Investment
When it comes to installing a swimming pool in Rochester, budget is often the first thing homeowners consider. While a pool can certainly be a significant investment, it’s important to understand the full range of costs involved. These include the initial installation, ongoing maintenance, and potential repair or upgrade expenses.
Fiberglass pools may have a higher upfront cost compared to vinyl liner pools, but they often prove to be more cost-effective in the long run. This is because fiberglass pools are incredibly durable and low-maintenance, reducing the frequency and cost of repairs. Additionally, fiberglass pools are energy-efficient, often requiring less electricity to keep the water clean and at the desired temperature.
If you’re considering an in-ground pool in Rochester, it’s worth noting that the weather in our region can be quite harsh, with cold winters and snowy conditions. Fiberglass pools are designed to withstand freezing temperatures better than other pool materials, making them a great choice for homeowners in Upstate New York who want a pool that will last for years without breaking the bank on maintenance.
*Displayed above is the D40 model with a stand-alone square spa and natural stone surround.
2. Pool Type: Fiberglass, Concrete, or Vinyl Liner
The next big decision to make when selecting a pool is which type of pool will best suit your needs. The three most common types of in-ground pools are fiberglass, concrete, and vinyl liner. Each has its own advantages, but there are clear reasons why fiberglass pools have become one of the most popular choices for homeowners in Rochester, NY.
Fiberglass Pools: Known for their smooth surface and durability, fiberglass pools are pre-manufactured and delivered as a single shell, which makes installation faster and less disruptive. These pools are also very resistant to algae buildup, meaning they require fewer chemicals and less maintenance.
Concrete Pools: While concrete pools offer the highest degree of customization in terms of shape and design, they can be prone to cracking at some point and require more maintenance over time, particularly in colder climates.
Vinyl Liner Pools: Vinyl liner pools are typically the most affordable option, and while there are customizable options in terms of both shape and size, the liners themselves need to be replaced over time, adding to the long-term costs.
Choosing the right type of pool depends on your budget, aesthetic preferences, and how much time you’re willing to spend on maintenance. It’s important to note that each pool type comes with their “pros” and “cons”. For many homeowners, fiberglass pools strike the perfect balance of durability, aesthetics, and low-maintenance upkeep, which is a contributing factor as to why they have grown so much in popularity in recent years.
*Displayed above is the gelcoat surface of a fiberglass pool in our Diamond color option.
3. Space and Pool Size: Making the Most of Your Backyard
When it comes to installing an in-ground pool in Rochester, it’s important to choose a pool that fits the size and layout of your backyard. Depending on the size of your property, you’ll want to choose a pool that enhances your outdoor living space rather than overwhelms it. Finding that perfect balance is important, because although it’s great to add different elements, it’s equally as important not to take away too much from your new outdoor oasis at the same time.
Fiberglass pools come in a wide range of shapes and sizes, from compact plunge pools to large family-sized pools. Whether you have a small yard or a sprawling property, fiberglass pools can be tailored to fit your specific needs. You can find our selection of in-ground pool models under the Pool Designs tab, or if you’re unsure of what pool might fit with your backyard, please contact us and we’ll be happy to help you weigh your options! With the selection of rectangular and freeform shapes available, you can maximize your space and create a beautiful, functional pool area without sacrificing design. Their design versatility makes them ideal for homeowners who want a pool that complements the flow of their backyard and can seamlessly integrate into any pre-existing landscape.
4. Maintenance Requirements: How Much Time Do You Want to Spend on Your Pool?
Owning a pool means maintenance—there’s no getting around it. However, the level of maintenance required varies significantly depending on the type of pool you choose.
Fiberglass pools are known for their low-maintenance nature. The smooth, non-porous surface resists algae growth, which means you’ll spend less time scrubbing and more time enjoying your pool. They also require fewer chemicals to maintain proper water balance, saving both time and money.
Concrete pools, on the other hand, are more prone to algae buildup due to their rough surfaces. They also require more frequent resurfacing and repairs, which can add to the ongoing costs and effort involved in maintaining the pool.
Maintenance deserves a spot on this list because it’s vital to the longevity of whichever swimming pool you end up choosing. Of course, there are few other things like water chemistry too, but we’ll dive into that topic and others, separately! For those looking to spend more time swimming and relaxing rather than cleaning and maintaining, use this information to aid you in making a decision you’ll be happy with.
5. Aesthetics and Features: Enhancing Your Backyard’s Appeal
When it comes to aesthetics, a pool should not only serve its functional purpose but also act as a stunning centerpiece for your backyard. Whether you envision a sleek, modern pool design or a more natural, freeform shape, fiberglass pools offer plenty of aesthetic options to suit your style. Both concrete and vinyl liner pools also offer a range of different options and add-ons that can be customizable depending on individual goals and preferences.
From vibrant color choices to built-in features like spas, waterfalls, and LED lighting, fiberglass pools allow for customization that will make your backyard feel like a luxurious retreat. The smooth finish of fiberglass pools also gives them a high-end, polished look that’s hard to beat.
Although concrete pools tend to be a bit more rough in texture, their customizable design can be tailored to fit exactly the shape and size that you desire. Similar to that of a fiberglass pool, additional options including integrated spa units, stand-alone spas, tanning ledges and other pool amenities can further enhance the aesthetics of your swimming pool.
Although optional, the majority of homeowners ultimately end up choosing to add upgrades to their new pool, some include; pool heaters, salt systems, LED lighting throughout, bubblers or deck jets. While some homeowners lean more into functionality improvement like a pool heater to extend the swim season, others tend to gravitate towards cosmetic upgrades, like lighting or even deck jets, which propel streams of water into your pool from the decking. Either way, it’s a luxury in knowing you can always add more to your space and these types of amenities will more likely than not leave you with a smile on your face every time you walk out to use your new backyard oasis. If you’re considering an in-ground pool in Rochester, it’s important to choose a design that will ultimately complement your home’s overall aesthetic and enhance your existing space.
*Displayed above is the D28 model tanning shelf with natural stone and landscape.
Conclusion: Your Dream Pool Awaits
Choosing the right pool for your home can be a daunting task, but by considering these five key factors—budget, pool type, size, maintenance, and aesthetics—you can ensure you make an informed decision. Fiberglass pools offer a fantastic option for homeowners looking for durability, low maintenance, and beautiful designs that will last for years to come.
If you're ready to start your journey toward owning the perfect pool, get in touch with us today for a consultation. We'll help you assess your needs, budget, and backyard space to choose the ideal in-ground pool for your home.
