If you’ve decided to install a swimming pool or swim spa in your backyard, you’ll want to make sure you’ve done your homework and taken into consideration as many perspectives as possible. The fact is that once your new addition is set in place it’ll be very inconvenient and expensive to change things. For instance, what size should a backyard pool be? That’s dependent on a wide variety of factors. To ensure you’ve considered every angle we’ve come up with an article to help guide your decision-making process.
How Much Space Do You Have?
The amount of space available in your backyard may help you decide between an above ground pool or a swim spa. With the Hydropool swim spa line ranging from 12 to 19 feet in length, you’ll be able to practice your swimming strokes in a much smaller space than you would if you chose a full-sized swimming pool. But you should also take into account municipal zoning bylaws that dictate how far your pool needs to be from the house, the property lines, and any other structures. With a swim spa, you’ll need an additional two to four feet of space around the perimeter. With an above ground pool, this distance will likely be greater.
Ground Surface and Surrounding Structures
To install a swim spa, you’ll need a leveled surface that can hold the weight of the full water tank. This could be a concrete pad or a similar structure. Above ground, swimming pools will require some landscaping to prepare the ground for pool installation. You’ll also need to decide what kind of patio or decking situation you want around your pool or swim spa. It’s been found that most pool and swim spa owners spend much more time around the water than they actually do in the water. Therefore, it’s important to anticipate how the area surrounding the pool will be used. Will you need an area to cook and eat food? How many sun loungers and chairs will you likely use? Where will the water pump, heater, and chemicals be stored? Even though you might not build everything right from the start you’ll need the foresight to allow for later additions to occur.
What Is Your Swimming Style?
Those who look at their pool or swimming spa as a tool for competitive training and elite athleticism will have much different needs than those who are simply looking for a place to relax, socialize and have some fun. If you’re hoping to swim laps in an above ground pool you should look at something at least 30 feet in length. For those opting for a swim spa, the intensity of your training will dictate the model that works best for you. If you’re simply using your pool or swim spa as a place for playing and relaxing, you might not need the largest models available.
To find out more about installing a swim spa in your backyard, download a free buyer’s guide here.