Figuring out the ideal pool size is one of the most important decisions that you will ever make when you are planning an in-ground pool. This is because size will have a significant impact on how you can use it. Of course, this can be difficult if you are not sure how to come to this conclusion. To help you choose the perfect in-ground pool size, there are some factors that you must consider.
Defining the Pool Size
As far as the perfectly sized inground pool is concerned, what is ideal is subjective. Residential pools in the United States typically are 12×24, 15×30, and 20×40 feet. Keep in mind that the length, width, and depth of the pool will affect its functionality. For example, if you want people to be able to dive into your pool from a diving board, it will need to be deep and large enough to accommodate this. For diving purposes, especially head-first diving, the red cross recommends that the water in the pool must be at least nine feet deep. If the water is too shallow, spinal cord injuries can result, with the most common being to the cervical spine in the C-5 region. These are neck injuries, and they can lead to complete paralysis if severe enough. It is estimated that 800 injuries of this sort occur each year nationwide.
Keep in mind also that the shape of the pool will determine how much usable swim area you have. Square, rectangular, and L-shaped pools have a larger perimeter, but they offer less swimming area. Curve-shaped pools, such as the kidney variety, give you more space for swimming.
Factors That Influence the Ideal Pool Size
Enough Space
With that said, let us investigate the factors that will influence the size of your pool. The first consideration is the available yard space that you have. You must have enough space for your pool installation, and there must also be enough room so that it is the required distance from your property lines. This will vary according to the area where you live. In addition to this, you must also have the necessary space to accommodate landscaping, decking, and safety barriers.
The primary use of your pool is another important consideration. For example, if you want the pool to be used for family recreation, then you need to make sure there is space for shallow lounging areas and more width for playing pool games, like Sharks and Minnows and Marco Polo. If you want to use your pool for workouts, then the length needs to be at least 40 feet. Finally, should you desire to use your pool for entertainment, then you need to balance space for swimming as well as a nice deck for lounging, eating, and drinking. And if you want to go fancy and have features, such as a fire pit, tiki bar, and outdoor kitchen, you must also make sure you have sufficient space to accommodate those, especially since you want to make sure kitchen gadgets and other electronics are not too close to the pool.
Number of Swimmers
The number of users you want to accommodate also matters. If you know that you will frequently throw large gatherings, then you obviously want a larger pool. Multiple swimmers can have an impact on water circulation and comfort, and when they are crowded into a smaller space, folks will not enjoy themselves quite as much. The last thing you want to do is have people talking badly about you around the neighborhood because they had a poor experience at your home.
Pool Budget
Then, you must consider your budget. You may have a huge yard and can accommodate a pool that is just as big as one that is found at your typical recreational center, but your wallet may tell a different story. What you must do in this case is be realistic about what you can afford. Check how much it will cost to construct different inground pool sizes as well as how much it will take to maintain them, and factor that into your decision.
Conclusion
Figuring out the ideal pool size may seem daunting, especially since there is so much to consider. But the good news is that you do not have to go through this process alone, as you can work with a pool building contractor. You can tell them your needs and your budget, and then they can come out and survey your property to see what you can realistically do. Then, after the contractor has the full picture, they can sit down with you and go over all your options. They can even show you pictures so that you can have a great idea of how things will look in your yard once the project is completed. Throughout the duration of the project, a good pool contractor will allow you to ask all the questions that you need, and you will be able to provide your input. After your pool has been installed, you and your family can find enjoyment for years to come.