Designing a swimming pool is one of the most rewarding upgrades you can add to your home. A well-planned pool can increase property value by up to 7 percent, create a relaxing environment for your family, and completely transform your outdoor space. Yet many homeowners begin the design process without understanding the details that matter most, which often leads to unexpected costs or long-term regrets.
Surveys show that more than 60 percent of homeowners say they would design their pool differently if they could start over. Most of these issues come from inadequate planning, rushed decisions, or not working with the right professionals. To help you avoid common pitfalls, here are the seven major mistakes you should avoid when creating your dream pool.
1. Ignoring the Layout and Natural Conditions of Your Yard
Your yard’s natural characteristics such as sun exposure, soil conditions, wind flow, and shade patterns should guide your pool placement. Choosing the wrong location can lower your water temperature by five to seven degrees, increase heating costs, and lead to debris build-up.
Tip to Get It Right
Observe your yard at different times of the day. Look at how the sunlight moves, and choose a space that feels naturally warm and comfortable. Proper placement helps reduce ongoing maintenance and energy use.
2. Selecting a Pool Size or Depth That Doesn’t Match Your Lifestyle
A pool that looks good in photos might not function well for your daily needs. Some families need room for lap swimming while others prefer shallow lounging areas. Studies show that four out of ten pool owners regret choosing the wrong depth or size.
Tip to Get It Right
Think about how you plan to use the pool. A depth between three and a half to five feet works well for most households. If you’re unsure, consult with an experienced st. george custom pool builder who can help create a layout that suits your activities and long-term plans.
3. Overlooking Important Safety Features
Safety is a critical part of pool design, especially for households with children, pets, or frequent guests. Many homeowners skip essential features and later realize how important they are.
Common safety mistakes include:
- No safety fencing
- Slippery pool deck surfaces
- No alarms or automatic covers
- Inadequate lighting
The CDC reports that drowning remains the leading cause of accidental death among children aged one to four, which shows how essential proper safety measures are.
Tip to Get It Right
Choose non-slip deck materials, install a self-closing gate, and consider an automatic pool cover to keep everyone safe and the water clean.
4. Choosing Attractive Materials That Lack Durability
Some materials look beautiful at first but degrade quickly due to chemicals, heat, or constant moisture. Low-grade tiles can crack, dark plaster can fade, and soft stone may stain or deteriorate quickly.
Tip to Get It Right
Select long-lasting materials such as quartz interiors, pebble finishes, or porcelain pavers. These materials require less maintenance and maintain their appearance much longer.
5. Underestimating the Cost and Time Required for Long-Term Maintenance
Many people fall in love with the idea of a pool but underestimate what it takes to keep it running efficiently. Pool maintenance costs typically range from 1,200 to 1,800 dollars per year, depending on the size and equipment.
Tip to Get It Right
Choose high-efficiency systems. Variable-speed pumps can cut energy use by up to 70 percent, and advanced sanitation options like UV or ozone systems help reduce chemical usage and improve overall water quality. A reliable custom pool company in Southern Utah can guide you toward equipment that genuinely lowers long-term maintenance costs.
6. Forgetting to Design the Surrounding Landscape
A pool should complement your entire backyard. Without proper planning, you might end up with a beautiful pool that feels disconnected from the rest of your outdoor living space.
Common oversights include:
- No shaded seating or lounge areas
- Plants that shed frequently
- No storage for pool equipment
- Insufficient lighting for nighttime use
Landscape designers report that a well-planned poolside layout can increase how often families use their pool by up to 40 percent.
Tip to Get It Right
Use low-shedding plants and create spaces for dining, lounging, and storage. Add adequate lighting to enhance both the ambiance and safety of the area.
7. Failing to Plan for Future Upgrades
Even if you don’t want a hot tub, fire pit, or water feature today, your preferences may change over time. Adding these features later without planning ahead is difficult and often expensive.
Homeowners spend 30 to 50 percent more on features added after construction because the plumbing, electrical work, and structural layout must be adjusted.
Tip to Get It Right
Discuss potential future upgrades with your builder at the beginning. Installing electrical lines, plumbing pathways, and extra space early on makes future additions far easier and more cost-effective.
Final Thoughts
Designing your dream pool is an investment that requires thoughtful planning. By choosing the right location, size, materials, and safety features, and by considering long-term maintenance, you can create a pool that enhances your lifestyle for years to come. With the right preparation and expert guidance, your dream pool can become the centerpiece of your home’s outdoor space.