Swimming Pools

Why not install a swimming pool in the back yard? A swimming pool can provide hours of relaxation and fun. But before you begin, assess your wants and needs. If you want to swim laps, you'll need a long pool. If you want to entertain, you'll need some non-pool space (such as a deck) and shade. If you want a pool to just relax, a smaller model may be adequate. Indoor pools will either require construction of an addition to your home or an outbuilding. If you have a building in mind for your pool, make sure it has adequate water and utility services.

Outdoor swimming pools come in three basic types: above ground, vinyl in ground and concrete in ground. Investigate pool finishes that best suit your tastes. Pools come in a variety of different materials, some requiring more maintenance than others. Fiberglass is used for a one-piece tub fitted into a pre-dug hole. The slick surface repels algae, but it will need occasional re-coating. Concrete is covered with a plaster water seal that can take more wear and tear than other swimming pool materials. It will likely need to be replaced every 7 to 10 years. Aggregate finish is a concrete pool with a specialized finish that has better traction. It's covered with a layer of embedded rounded gravel. Tile is a concrete pool with a tile finish instead of a plaster finish. The tile surface requires less surface maintenance than other surfaces.

Plan to spend about four to eight hours a week on routine pool maintenance. Basic maintenance equipment includes a vacuum cleaner, brushes, leaf skimmer and water test kit. You will also need to add sanitizing chemicals. If you prefer, you can also hire a professional pool maintenance company — most companies listed below sell supplies and provide maintenance services as well — but be sure to ask.

You can also find routine supplies at Cape Fear Pools & Spas, Inc. in Monkey Junction, (910) 395-6772; Caribbean Pools & Spas, 6619 Market Street, Wilmington, (910) 452-9244; and Wal-Mart, Lowe's Home Improvement Warehouse and Home Depot. A service professional can help you make your choices and is best suited to the installation or repair of your pool, both because of the size of the project, and because of the different trades that might be required, from general construction and excavating and grading to concrete and plumbing work.