Want to have the most popular home on the block this summer? You could hire Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie as your new gardeners. Or, you could have Tiger Woods give free chipping lessons in your backyard. But celebrities are expensive and would attract the paparazzi, who would then trample your petunias.

And although your neighbors would appreciate the free lessons, all that golfing would turn your yard into a pile of divots. If you really want to have the most popular home in your neighborhood this summer, it’s simple—put in a pool!

Nothing says relaxation like a swimming pool. Actually, nothing says relaxation like owning your own swimming pool. We’ve all been to the public pool or to the one down at the gym, and it’s anything but relaxing. The only way to truly enjoy all the refreshing summer fun that a pool can offer is to become a pool owner.

Whether you’re looking into pool ownership for the first time, or simply adding onto or enhancing your existing pool, the benefits are plentiful:

• Quality family time—Are you and your family looking to spend more quality time together? There is no better place to celebrate the special times of your life than at home in your very own pool.
• A healthy lifestyle—Aquatic activity is a great way to get in or stay in shape. A pool can even help you relieve your body of daily stress, strains, aches and pains.
• Celebrations with friends—There’s no better place for a gathering of friends than in the comfort of your very own backyard. For a party of one or many, a pool can help you enjoy and celebrate life.
• Improving your home’s value—Your backyard pool adds value and beauty to your home. It’s a smart and secure investment that provides untold returns and valuable memories.
• Refreshing fun—Pools invite spontaneous recreation. No more sweating it out with the kids during those long, hot summer months. Just jump in and enjoy safe, refreshing fun!

Featured pools are actual Cheswick Pools & Patios projects

Lots of people dream of having a pool but just don’t know where to begin. What kind of pool should you choose? How much will it cost? How will I afford it? What kind of upkeep will it require? What do my town’s laws say about putting in a pool? These are just some of the questions you may have.

Well, don’t worry. We’re here to help you make all the right decisions. Sure, putting in a pool can be a big decision, but as long as you do it the right way, your pool is sure to bring you years of entertainment and refreshing summer satisfaction!

The first thing you need to consider is how much you want to spend on your new pool. If your new hip-hop single is climbing the charts to #1, then you can probably put in whatever type and size of swimming pool you want. But if you’re like most people and you have a budget to keep, you’re going to want to make sure you’re getting the most pool for your buck. The cost of your new swimming pool will depend on many factors, including:

• The shape and design of the pool
• The construction materials used
• The time it will take to build
• Equipment rental for excavation
• Pool features and accessories
• Permits and licenses

Once you have a basic idea of the type of pool you want, you’ll have to set a budget for construction and installation, factoring in the cost of pool chemicals and accessories needed to maintain your pool. You’ll also have to consider additional costs for landscaping and lighting, once the pool is complete. Depending on your local ordinances, you may even have to budget money to install a perimeter fence around the pool for safety. Finally, you will also have to consider what, if any, additional costs will arise in your property taxes.

Cheswick Pools & Patios project

After you’ve decided on what type of pool you want to install, the next step is to call your insurance agent. You’ll want to do this before you call your pool contractor to make sure that you are already covered. If not, you may have to take out additional insurance to protect yourself and your investment. You also must be covered to protect yourself from liability in case of accidents or injuries during the construction phase. Talk to your agent and ensure that you have adequate liability coverage and that your homeowner’s insurance policy covers your new pool.

Also, keep in mind that many companies have stipulations regarding fencing, pool alarms and other features such as diving boards. Insurance companies place these parameters on their customers to ensure that you and the company are at a lower risk.

Umbrella policies ensure your liability coverage and offer further protection against others being injured or hurt while on your property. Customized homeowners policies are wide and varied and can be tailored to suit your lifestyle. Some important factors to consider when purchasing insurance are your risk factors, financial status and your comfort level.

Make sure to take the time to speak with your agent and set up a policy to protect you and your new investment. This peace of mind will make your new pool that much more enjoyable.

Once you’ve finalized your insurance, the next step is to decide what type of pool you want. Swimming pools come in all shapes and sizes. You’ll want to consider the shape, size, depth and aesthetic options that are best for you. Some people are happy with just a small, basic pool, while others want something a little more exotic and natural in appearance. It all depends on your particular taste.

“Cheswick Pools focuses on offering the finest materials and technologies available on every pool. We differentiate ourselves by spending time with our clients to design the very best pool available to them within their desired budget.” Justin Rushin, Cheswick Pools & Patios

Some things to consider are: Where will the pool be in reference to the house?

Do you want it located off the bedrooms or the kitchen? Will there be water access available or will you need to install it? Does the landscape allow for an in-ground pool, or will it need to be altered? You’ll also have to make sure there are no power lines, electrical, gas or water lines that will interfere.

An in-ground pool requires a bit more work and planning since it’s a permanent structure in your yard; but it also offers the most options in shape and style. Fiberglass pools come to your home in one piece, pre-formed and ready to install. Once the hole is dug and the water lines for the pool have been installed, the pool is dropped in. A layer of sand is put in the hole and the pool is lowered in. As the pool fills and settles, sand is put between the hole and the pool to make a tight fit.

Cheswick Pools & Patios project

Concrete pool installation is a little different. The ground is prepared and the concrete is sprayed on in layers. When the concrete has dried for approximately one week, a finishing coat is applied and tiles or decorative siding are then placed in. Concrete pools are best for pools with different shapes, depths and designs.

Whatever type of pool you choose, make sure to take every precaution and check with professionals before digging. Your first thought might be to build a pool in the spring so it is ready for summer. But spring can bring rain and moist ground, which can make installation difficult or lead to future problems. The best time to build is before winter, when you will most likely have a window of time with no moisture.

Once you’ve chosen a particular style, your next step is to choose a reputable pool builder. This is probably the most important decision in the entire process. You need to be extremely careful when choosing your pool company. There are a lot of so-called “discount” pool companies out there who make false claims about quality and experience. Do your research. Talk to other pool owners and see what company they used and if they were happy with the finished product. Make sure you choose someone with a strong reputation for quality and customer service. Choosing an experienced, trusted builder will ensure that your pool will be well-built and provide entertainment for years to come.

So there you have it. Everything you need to know in order to purchase and safely enjoy your new backyard swimming pool. Don’t drag your family down to the public pool this summer. It’s crowded, the water’s cold and the hot dogs at the concession stand are just too darn expensive. This summer, start experiencing the relaxing, refreshing pleasure of owning your very own swimming pool. Your kids will love you for it (and their friends will, too).

For more Information Contact: Cheswick Pools & Patios 1205 Pittsburgh Street Cheswick, PA 15024 (724) 274-6400