Are you planning on building a new pool in the near future? Choosing where it should go is an important decision, and one you should consider carefully. Keep these factors in mind when select that perfect spot.

What kind of fence and gate do you need for the pool?

As many communities have regulations for fences and gates on properties with pools, this will be the first of the 5 things to consider when choosing the location of your new pool. If there are not set regulations, it is best practice to install a fence that is a minimum of five feet in height and that includes a gate which opens outward, is self-closing, and has a latch that small children cannot reach. The pool location should be able to accommodate these features.

Who is going to be using the pool? Will this dynamic change in the future?

Is your pool primarily going to be used by little kids playing, by adults swimming laps, or is it primarily for outdoor entertaining and aesthetics? Do you have elderly or physically handicapped swimmers that will want to have easy access to the pool? The use of the pool often dictates the size and shape, which can affect the location. Don’t forget to consider how these needs may change in the future. For example, do you anticipate having children and/or grandchildren using the pool down the line?

What type of events will you be holding with the pool?

Are you going to have lots of family gatherings with little kids or are most of your parties adults only? Do you want the pool to be in close proximity to other yard features such as a patio? These decisions can all affect the location of the pool.

How are you planning to use the rest of the yard?

Some people are fine with having a pool that takes up the majority of a yard. Other people have plans for the remainder of their yards such as gardens, porches, and play equipment.

Do certain areas of the yard gather more foliage in the autumn and winter months?

This can be a consideration if you don’t want to be constantly fishing leaves and debris from your pool. While pool covers will help protect your pool when not in use, overhanging or nearby trees can make pool cleaning and water chemistry more difficult even in the summer months.

What areas of the yard get the longest hours of sunlight?

Many homeowners building a new pool want to find a location that receives sunlight throughout the day. But keep in mind that long hours of full sunlight will cause pool water evaporation. This will mean keeping a closer eye on water chemistry and topping up your water level more often.

Where will your pool be located and what concerns do you have? We’d love to hear from you.