7 Things to Consider When Building a Pool

May 19, 2025 min read

When it comes to building your pool, the possibilities are endless. With some planning and investment, you can create the pool – and surrounding area – of your dreams. Trying to decide what style or feature to adopt? Check out this guide below:

#1 Saltwater Pool vs. Chlorine Pool

When you go to a public pool, you probably smell that familiar chlorine scent that reminds you of summer pool fun. That is the standard added chlorine that is used in most public pool areas and a lot of private pools. It is great at killing bacteria and other things that can live in the water, but it will burn your eyes and can offer a very strong smell if there is too much used. On the other hand, you can add salt to your pool to do the same thing. You might think that a saltwater pool doesn’t have chlorine, but it actually changes to natural chlorine in the salt chlorine generator, which uses electricity to alter the salt. You can see more about how the pool systems work here. While reviewing your options, be advised the price for a saltwater filtration system is higher than a standard chlorine filtration system.

#2 What Kind of Fence Should I Put Around My Pool?

Installing a fence around your pool is a good idea if there are pets and/or children nearby. Even if you are in a rural area, wildlife can potentially get trapped in the pool. Most places a fence around your pool is required by law. When considering your fencing options, you may decide to fence in a small area specifically around the pool, or around your whole yard. This is a decision to make based on factors including whether children and pets will have access to the yard.

#3 Should I Heat My Pool or Not?

Depending on where you live, and when you want to have your pool open will determine if you should heat your pool. While a heater is an additional expense, it can extend the swimming season. If you live in a climate that is warm year-round, you can manage fine without a heater. If you live in an area where pool use is seasonal, consider the months you want to swim. If installing a heater isn’t the best option for you, there is also the option of using a solar cover.

#4 Vinyl, Fiberglass, Tile or Concrete Pool

When looking at pools, there are four main pool options. You can choose from vinyl, fiberglass, tile, or concrete.

Vinyl pools are very common and less expensive than other options. Vinyl is very customizable for any pool shape but will also need to be properly maintained. Eventually, the vinyl can stain, rip, and will need to be replaced after five to ten years as it degrades over time.
Fiberglass pools are very common and are strong, durable, and flexible. The main downside of fiberglass pools is that there are not options for everybody. You are limited on the design options and the pool will fade over the years. Another thing to consider when deciding on your pool type is if you are going to have a pool cleaning robot. Not all robots can work on all surfaces. It is important to do your research and plan accordingly.
Concrete is another option for your pool. A concrete pool is durable, textured, and scratch and stain resistant. While the concrete pool needs to be repainted occasionally, it is structurally solid unless it gets a crack in it.
Tile over concrete is another option for your pool. While it is visually pleasing, it can be slick and hard to repair.

#5 Pool Water Features & Lighting

Do you imagine yourself floating in your pool being sprinkled by a cascading waterfall or enjoying a remarkable pool like one of the most breathtaking pools in the world? Or maybe you picture yourself doing a lot of night swimming. Whatever the case, be fully prepared for those additions into your pool. Water features and extra lighting options will add to the overall cost of your pool installation, but you also must consider the upkeep and repairs to those additional items. Decide which items you would like to add prior to breaking ground for your new pool.

#6 Pool Use

How will you be using your pool? Picturing what you want your pool usage to look like will help deciding on design, fencing, features, and more.

Fun: Investigate a pool design with different water features and lighting options. Think about having a deep and a shallow end to increase the fun and possibilities.
Exercise: Look at designs that include space for swimming laps. You also won’t need any additional water features.
Entertaining: Picture what your entertainment looks like. Will you be installing an outdoor kitchen with your pool? Consider fencing the entire area so friends and family don’t have to be separated during a gathering.
Family use: How will your family use it? Will there be a lot of night swimming, birthday parties, and jumping in or maybe just quiet days by the pool? Think of features you would like for your family.

#7 Your Pool Budget

It is essential to set your budget for your pool project. While you are weighing pros and cons of all the above items, the cost of each item will need to be considered. Vinyl, concrete, fiberglass, and tile all have different costs associated with them. Additional water features, lighting, and filtration systems also have a variety of pricing choices.

Conclusion

No matter the choices you make along the way, there is a pool out there for you. With proper planning and budgeting, you can have the pool of your dreams.