By Peter Fabris
A swimming pool doesn’t always require a lot of land.
Homeowners with small lots may not have enough space for a full-sized pool, but there are other options for small spaces, including some that even allow owners to swim for fitness.
In fact, small pools have advantages over large ones, and consumers are responding to them. “Smaller pools are becoming more popular because they are more affordable,” says Jeff Mitchell, owner of Dynasty Pools, based in Menifee, California. With credit qualifications tighter than they’ve been in many years, affordability is crucial.
Not only do small pools cost less to build, but they also, on average, cost less to operate, with lower power needs, fewer chemicals for water treatment, and less water required to fill them.
“Maintenance costs are a lot less than they used to be,” Mitchell says. “You can operate one, for instance, with just a dollar a day of electricity.”
Small pool designs
There are a few basic types of pools for tight spaces:
- Lap pool. Long and narrow, this design allows a swimmer to get a workout by going from one end to the other.
- Swim-jet-equipped. This design can be built slightly longer than a full-sized adult, with water jets providing resistance to swim in place. You’ll have to pay a premium for the water jets. An alternative to the jets is to use a waist harness for swimming.
- Lounging pool. Small, of any shape, meant mainly for sitting in.
- Pool/spa combo. Add a spa next to any of the above types.
Pool landscaping
While the pool may be the centerpiece of your backyard, you can add other elements to create an exotic vibe. Grottos, waterfalls, pergolas, seating areas, and pool landscaping can help create a mini-resort in your own backyard.
To tailor the design, a pool contractor must examine the site. “In Southern California, for example, a lot of times you have slopes that require special engineering to prevent movement,” Mitchell says.
Dos and don’ts of selecting a pool contractor
While many consumers, especially in tough economic times, focus on the quoted price for installation, Mitchell warns that you need to consider more. “Make sure you know exactly what you are going to get for the price,” he says. Some contractors provide a low bid, but later add additional charges to the tab.
Also, the experience level and education of contractors can vary widely, so choose carefully. An inefficient design by an inexperienced installer, Mitchell cautions, can cost you five times more on electric bills.
Here are some pointers to help you select the best pool installer:
- Visit the Association of Pool and Spa Professionals[LW6] ’ website for referrals to local contractors. “It’s a good starting point,” Mitchell says.
- Ask contractors about their background in the pool and spa business. How much actual field experience do they have?
- Request customer references. Visit a couple of the contractor’s customers and talk to them about their experience.
- Check with the Better Business Bureau or Angie’s List for any complaints or high ratings.
- Get details in writing. Make sure you know and understand the particulars of any contract before you sign.
Installing a pool? Think small!
A swimming pool doesn’t always require a lot of land.
Homeowners with small lots may not have enough space for a full-sized pool, but there are other options for small spaces, including some that even allow owners to swim for fitness.
In fact, small pools have advantages over large ones, and consumers are responding to them. “Smaller pools are becoming more popular because they are more affordable,” says Jeff Mitchell, owner of Dynasty Pools, based in Menifee, California. With credit qualifications tighter than they’ve been in many years, affordability is crucial.
Not only do small pools cost less to build, but they also, on average, cost less to operate, with lower power needs, fewer chemicals for water treatment, and less water required to fill them.
“Maintenance costs are a lot less than they used to be,” Mitchell says. “You can operate one, for instance, with just a dollar a day of electricity.”
Small pool designs
There are a few basic types of pools for tight spaces:
Pool landscaping
While the pool may be the centerpiece of your backyard, you can add other elements to create an exotic vibe. Grottos, waterfalls, pergolas, seating areas, and pool landscaping can help create a mini-resort in your own backyard.
To tailor the design, a pool contractor must examine the site. “In Southern California, for example, a lot of times you have slopes that require special engineering to prevent movement,” Mitchell says.
Dos and don’ts of selecting a pool contractor
While many consumers, especially in tough economic times, focus on the quoted price for installation, Mitchell warns that you need to consider more. “Make sure you know exactly what you are going to get for the price,” he says. Some contractors provide a low bid, but later add additional charges to the tab.
Also, the experience level and education of contractors can vary widely, so choose carefully. An inefficient design by an inexperienced installer, Mitchell cautions, can cost you five times more on electric bills.
Here are some pointers to help you select the best pool installer: