Key Decisions In New Pool Construction
Is the thought of another summer without your own backyard swimming pool already making you feel hot? If you want to swim in your own pool, NOW is the time to start planning and building.
Pools have come a long way, baby!
Martin Lopez of Omni Pool Builders and Design says his company likes “to help homeowners narrow down their choices as there are so many options”.
Pool building as well as landscape design has come a long way since Martin’s’ family started in El Paso, Texas with just 8 design options, 4 tile choices and 1 pool deck choice. Outdoor living has evolved into the lifestyle of the Southwest. That means your backyard pool options can range from a lap pool for exercise to a full-scale spa/resort experience.
Key factors to consider when starting the pool design process:
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This beautiful pool with water features and fountains could be yours! Budget | Have a general idea of what you would like to spend on your pool.
- Yard access | Can your yard accommodate a pool? Martin says, if there is a gate to the backyard, they can get in with the equipment to dig a pool. They have even been known to hand dig a pool if needed!
- HOA and municipality guidelines | Martin cautions that guidelines for your HOA and municipality may not agree. Make sure that you research both. The restrictions may differ in setbacks and proximity to the house and windows.
- Sun position | Watch the sun in your yard over the months before you design your pool. Where is the sun in the summer? How would you position the pool to allow for maximum enjoyment? Martin tells us that the most common request he has is for more shade. How might you incorporate shade into your pool experience?
- Excavation | Yards that are on bedrock, requiring extra excavation, will cost more. One option is to build the pool up and use retaining walls instead of digging down deep.
- Landscape grading & drainage | The effect that the pool has on the flow of water shed and surface drainage are a big consideration for obtaining the permit needed to begin the construction project.
How to narrow down your pool choices
As Martin stated above, there are so many options out there for your pool specifically. To narrow it down, give some thought on who will be using the pool.
- Is this an adult pool?
- Will there be children using the pool?
- Martin tells us that many dog owners take their pets into consideration when designing their pools!
You should also consider how you want to use the pool. If you want a lap pool for example, they can build a pool as small as 10ft by 14ft. These pools have swim jets that incorporate a stream of water to keep you in place while you get your laps in.
The average family pool is about 10-12,000 gallons. The most common pools now are geometric in shape to mimic the design of the current trend in mid-century modern construction. However, the sky’s the limit! If you prefer a pool with a lot of curves and waterfalls, you can have that as well.
What are the best pool finishes?
Years ago, plaster finishing was the only pool surface available. Martin prefers the mini pebble finishes like Pebble Tec and StoneScape. They are resistant to stains and stay new longer.
Pool decking has come a long way since the days of Kool Deck. Travertine is the deck material of choice. Another popular choice is pavers. Martin likes Artistic Pavers since they are made right here in Casa Grande, Arizona.
If you’re thinking about porcelain tile, it does add a look of beauty, but they are slippery when wet which could prove dangerous.
Check out our article about The Pros And Cons Of Kool Deck Vs. Acrylic Pool Deck Vs. Pavers.
What trending pool features are there to choose from?
Looking to use your pool all year long? Heated pools have become more affordable with the advancement of solar energy.
The beachfront, zero entry style pool
This style pool offers a place to put a lawn chair in the water. Umbrella sleeves can be added for more shade, thus extending your enjoyment time. Martin tells us that this kind of pool gets A LOT of use!
Instagram-worthy pool features
Splash pads, lighting synced with music, underwater speakers, and sunken bars all add to a resort/spa type feel. Add in a BBQ, TV, and outdoor seating to help complete the outdoor living lifestyle.
Updating/remodeling an existing pool
My Pool is 1970 vintage, can it be updated?
This is a common request at Omni. Martin says that 25-30% of their business is pool remodeling. Homeowners with diving pools or with an outdated design and equipment are often interested in converting to a play pool. This conversion can be done. With an update in lighting, pool surface, tile and decking your pool will look and feel like new.
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CONTENT PARTNER | Omni Pool Builders & Design
At Tucson-based Omni Pool Builders & Design we pride ourselves in building the most professionally constructed residential and commercial pools in Southern Arizona. Be sure to visit our design center located at 6640 N Oracle Rd #130, Tucson, AZ 85704. Choosing a swimming pool builder is a major decision that is determined by quality, reliability, and style. Our services are comprehensive, covering water features, solar pool installations, security fencing, and landscaping, ensuring a holistic approach to your outdoor space. With a keen eye for detail and a commitment to sustainability, we’re not just building pools—we’re crafting enduring legacies. Our affordable services are valued by our customers like no other dealer in the area. We serve Pima County, Sierra Vista, Nogales, and Yuma. Contact us today! Your dream pool awaits.
PODCAST
Martin Lopez of Omni Pool Builders and Design in Tucson discusses what sets them apart from other pool companies. Wait until you hear some incredible amenities incorporated in a design for a resort style pool in your backyard. Plus we cover remodeling trends in existing pools too!
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