Investing in a swimming pool is one of the most exciting decisions you can make for your home and lifestyle. It’s not just about adding a beautiful feature to your backyard — it’s about creating a space for relaxation, entertainment, family bonding, and health. However, if you want to make sure your new pool brings you the greatest long-term value, careful and strategic planning is essential. Here’s the smart way to approach your pool installation, ensuring it enhances your property, lifestyle, and future resale value for years to come.
1. Define Your Long-Term Goals
Before diving into designs or picking out tiles, take a step back and consider your long-term goals.
- Lifestyle needs: Are you dreaming of leisurely laps, hosting summer pool parties, or creating a child-friendly water haven?
- Resale considerations: Will this pool appeal to future buyers? Features like energy efficiency and low-maintenance materials can boost future resale value.
- Budget boundaries: Planning with a clear budget will help you stay realistic and prevent costly surprises later.
Knowing exactly what you want from your pool today — and in ten years — will inform every decision you make from design to materials.
2. Choose the Right Location
Placement is everything when it comes to maximising the value of your pool.
Consider factors like:
- Sun exposure: A pool with ample sunlight stays warmer naturally and reduces heating costs.
- Wind protection: Positioning your pool away from strong winds helps minimise water evaporation and heat loss.
- Accessibility: Ensure the pool is easily accessible from your home’s main living areas without disrupting the flow of your backyard.
- Privacy: Strategic placement can provide a private oasis, increasing the enjoyment and perceived luxury of your pool.
Working with a professional installer or landscape designer at this early stage can help you make the most of your outdoor space.
3. Pick the Best Pool Type for Your Needs
There’s no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to pools. Choosing the right type of pool is crucial for your lifestyle, maintenance preferences, and budget.
- Fibreglass Pools: Popular for their quick installation, smooth finish, and low maintenance. They’re highly durable and can be a more cost-effective option over time.
- Concrete Pools: Fully customisable and ideal for unique shapes or specific finishes, but they typically involve longer installation times and higher maintenance.
- Above-Ground Pools: More affordable and flexible, though generally not considered as high-value for resale purposes compared to in-ground options.
For most homeowners seeking strong long-term value with minimal upkeep, fibreglass pools strike an ideal balance.
4. Focus on Quality Over Short-Term Savings
It can be tempting to cut corners on pool features, materials, or installation to save money upfront. However, investing in quality now can save you thousands later.
- Pool Shell and Finish: High-quality fibreglass shells with advanced gel coats can resist stains, UV damage, and algae growth better than cheaper options.
- Equipment: Premium pumps, filters, and chlorinators are more energy-efficient and last longer, offering significant savings on running costs.
- Warranties: Always check the warranties offered for both the pool shell and the installation workmanship.
Choosing reputable manufacturers and installers who stand behind their work will give you peace of mind — and a pool built to last.
5. Plan Your Landscaping at the Same Time
A pool is only part of the picture. The surrounding landscaping can dramatically impact the beauty, functionality, and value of your pool area.
- Paving and decking: Materials like natural stone, timber, and modern composites can enhance the visual appeal while providing practical, slip-resistant surfaces.
- Plants: Opt for low-maintenance, pool-friendly plants that won’t drop leaves into the water or have invasive roots.
- Lighting: Outdoor lighting adds ambience and extends the usability of your pool well into the evening.
Integrating your landscaping plan with your pool design will create a cohesive outdoor living space that feels like a natural extension of your home.
6. Think About Ongoing Costs Early
The smartest pool plans don’t just consider the installation price — they account for running costs too.
- Energy-efficient pumps and heaters: Choosing the latest variable-speed pumps and solar heating options can significantly cut electricity costs.
- Automatic cleaners and covers: These not only reduce the time you’ll spend on maintenance but also preserve water and minimise chemical use.
- Water-saving features: Modern pools can be equipped with features like backwash minimisation systems and rainwater harvesting setups.
By investing in efficient systems upfront, you’ll reduce your ongoing expenses and environmental impact over the life of the pool.
7. Understand Council Requirements and Permits
Navigating local council regulations can seem daunting, but it’s a critical step to ensure your pool installation goes smoothly.
In Australia, pool installations must comply with strict safety standards, including fencing requirements and inspections. Make sure you or your installer handle all necessary approvals before construction begins. Non-compliance can lead to costly modifications or penalties down the line.
A professional, licensed pool builder will usually assist with the permit process, saving you both time and headaches.
8. Choose the Right Pool Builder
Your choice of builder will have the single biggest impact on your overall experience and the long-term success of your pool installation.
Look for:
- Experience and reputation: Check reviews, testimonials, and ask to see previous projects.
- Transparent pricing: Detailed quotes help avoid hidden costs.
- Good communication: A builder who listens to your needs and keeps you informed throughout the process is worth their weight in gold.
Don’t rush this decision — take the time to research and compare before signing any contracts.
Final Thoughts: Smart Planning Pays Off
The smartest way to plan your pool installation is to think ahead — not just to next summer, but to the next decade. By carefully considering your goals, choosing quality materials and equipment, planning integrated landscaping, and selecting a trusted builder, you’ll be setting yourself up for maximum enjoyment, lower running costs, and boosted property value.
Remember, a well-planned pool is more than just a place to cool off — it’s an investment in your lifestyle and your home’s future.
If you’re ready to start planning your dream pool the smart way, contact our team today. We’re here to guide you every step of the way!
Contact our team at Barrier Reef Pools Perth and get a FREE QUOTE on your dream Fibreglass Pool today!
