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Design considerations
One of the most effective ways to integrate a pool and home is to choose materials, textures and colours for the pool area that take their cue from the design of the house. In doing so, you’ll have a thematic link that ties the whole package together.
This is particularly important when it comes to hard landscaping, such as paved areas, paths and retaining walls. When it comes to paving, for example, you not only need to choose pavers that will be hard-wearing and slip-resistant, but something that will either blend with, or complement, any paving around the house or in any nearby entertaining areas.
To achieve a truly integrated and inviting look, the landscape design needs to be worked out from the very beginning - well before the pool is installed. This should be an integral part of the initial pool plan which should be comprehensive and take into account everything from the installation of the pool to the paving, fencing, planting and any poolside structures, such as pavilions, and gazebos, etc.
Landscaping around the pool
The plants you choose will be largely determined by the overall style of the house and pool but as a general rule, the more limited the range of species and colours, the more cohesive and dramatic the effect.
Landscapers generally recommend planting in three tiers for a structured look that will have the maximum impact. This means some form of ground cover at the lower level, plants that grow to between one and one-and-a-half metres at the middle level and taller plants to form a backdrop or mask a wall at the higher level.
Try to keep planting as far away as possible from the splash zone, to prevent damage by pool chemicals or salt. If you do want plants to nestle close to the pool surround, choose a hardy variety. Planting trees and shrubs too close to a pool can also leave you at risk of having fast-growing roots disrupting the paving or snaking under the pool.
And on the subject of trees, although they are a delightful form of shade, if the canopy extends over the pool you’ll have trouble with falling leaves. This is why deciduous trees, which drop their leaves just once a year, might be the wisest choice.
Safety features
You don’t want to obstruct the view by using bulky fencing, so if you have a view to die for, completely frameless toughened glass fencing, or rail-less glass with slim metal posts, may be the way to go. In fact, when it comes to poolside fencing, the options are amazingly broad. Powder-coated galvanised-steel pool fences continue to be the most popular choice.
Other options include stainless-steel wire, wrought iron and aluminium, a combination of solid and tubular fencing, custom tubular fencing, traditional tubular fencing and glass bricks. As with all other elements of your pool, if you want to get maximum use and enjoyment out of your massive investment, the fencing has to be planned early in the process - and this includes placement.
Your budget
A pool is a major investment, in many ways. You'll need to invest cash, of course, but also time, energy, and garden space.
Important things to consider:
- How much pool can I afford?
- Is my garden suited to a pool?
- Is my property accessible for installation?
- Who should install my pool and how long will it take?
Maintenance and running costs
Chemicals :
The cost for pool chemicals varies according to the size of the pool, as well as climate, and frequency of use.
Maintenance :
The largest maintenance expense is a pool's interior finish. Vinyl liners last approximately 5-7 years, painted concrete needs a new coat approximately every five years; a plaster finish may last 10-15 years.
Equipment :
Equipment lifespans vary tremendously by brand and quality. Other elements such as proper water chemistry and location of equipment can affect lifespan. Because pumps are made to push water rather than draw water, pumps placed at pool level often last longer than those that sit higher and have to pump harder.
Water and electricity :
While electricity costs do increase during the summer, experts disagree on how to manage the increase. Water costs on the other hand can increase dramatically.
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