Planning your new swimming pool

Part 1 of 2: Elements of the construction plan

With so many decisions to make when buying a pool—including choices about design, materials, features, equipment, location in your yard, decking, and other additions such as fireplaces, outdoor kitchens, or landscaping—there may be times when you want to change your mind about an earlier selection.

Before any dirt is turned in your backyard, your pool designer will develop a construction plan and give you a copy to review. Typically, a plan will outline elements such as, but not limited to:

> Backyard measurements

> Pool position in the yard

> Footprint of the house

> Property lines, fences, and other barriers (e.g., overhead power lines)

> Underground utility lines (e.g., electric, phone)

> Pool dimensions (e.g., width, length, perimeter)

> Pool depths

> Pool capacity (number of gallons)

> Access points into the yard

> Pool equipment location

> Pool plumbing (e.g., drains, return lines, skimmer(s))

> Location of gas meter and/or electric meter for home

> Pool structure (e.g., steps, benches, raised bond beam)

> Coping type for the perimeter (e.g., brick, flagstone, safety-grip)

> Tile type for the waterline

> Deck for the pool (e.g., type, color, footage)

> Equipment options (e.g., filter, pump, heater, remote control, sanitizer)

> Pool cleaner type and line location

> Any accessories, such as a slide, diving board, or water features

> Pool lighting and locations

> Type and color of interior finish

> Spa—shape and configuration

> Spa options (e.g., light, blower, remote control, number of jets)

> Areas to be landscaped

> Areas for other backyard amenities (e.g., fire pit, island barbeque)

Ideally, any changes that you may want are best made now. This is the best time to be sure the plan shows exactly what you want! If something gives you hesitation, ask your designer about it.

Next:

Part 2 of 2: What happens when you change your mind?