The Pros and Cons of Installing a Swimming Pool in Your Backyard

Karen Lawes

Backyard swimming pools can be a great source of fun and relaxation. Or, they can be a drain on your time and resources.

There are a lot of great reasons to buy a swimming pool. But before you invest in one, it’s a good idea to spend some time weighing the pros and cons. Here, we’ll tackle some of the biggies for you.

PROS

    • FUN – A pool is a convenient, accessible source of entertainment. You won’t have to travel further than your own backyard for something to do on a hot day. You can invite a few friends, host a giant pool party or just spend the day in the sun with the family.
    • RELAXATION – There’s something about lounging by a swimming pool that is so relaxing, particularly if that pool is in your own backyard. Lounging by the pool is a great way to unload some of your stress.
    • GREAT FOR KIDS – If you have kids, they’re probably already begging for a pool. Saying yes can benefit you, too. You won’t have to lug the kids and their toys to the public pool on hot days. They’ll learn to be better swimmers. And if you have teenagers, they’ll actually want to spend time at home.
    • EXERCISE – Swimming is great exercise. It is a total body, low-impact workout. Shave off those extra pounds without joining a gym, simply by swimming laps in your backyard pool.

Image Source: Pinterest.com

CONS

  • PRICE – Swimming pools aren’t cheap. An above-ground pool will set you back anywhere from $2,500 to $10,000, including installation. And most in-ground pools cost a whopping $20,000 to $30,000. You’ll also have to budget for chemicals and routine maintenance.
  • MAINTENANCE – Swimming pools require regular cleaning. You’ll have to remove debris and change the filters from time to time. They also need to be treated with chlorine on a regular basis. All of this takes time out of your busy schedule. However, you can cut down on some of that maintenance by opting for a saltwater pool instead of a chlorine pool.
  • SAFETY/LIABILITY – Pool pose a safety hazard for children and pets, particularly when the pool is left unattended. If you decide to purchase a swimming pool, protect it with a gate or pool enclosure. In some areas of the country, the law requires it.

Karen Lawes is owner of WinterisHere.com, a site dedicated to helping with winter home improvement projects including roof snow removal and furnace repair.