The Pros and Cons of Building a Backyard Pool

With temperatures steadily climbing in the Arizona desert, we are all looking for the best ways to cool off in the summer heat. And if you don’t have a community with a swimming pool, you might be craving one for your own backyard.

But what are the advantages and disadvantages to building a backyard swimming pool? Will it feel like you’re on a permanent staycation or will it just be another giant headache in home maintenance?

We’re going to break down the pros and cons of building your very own backyard pool.

Money Matters

Pros

It may seem like building a pool in your home’s backyard will only be a huge expense for you, but it can increase your overall home value by 5%. Pools increase the value per square foot of homes on the market. They can also be a huge selling point in a climate like Arizona’s which may result in a quicker and more lucrative home sale.

Cons

While a swimming pool can increase your home’s value, there is always the possibility of not recouping the total amount spent on pool construction. This can be due to the size and type of pool as well as the chosen finishes. Additionally, you’ll have ongoing expenses like maintenance, increased homeowner’s insurance and water or electric costs.

Privacy Please

Pros

Having a pool in your own backyard brings with it the privacy that you won’t get at a community pool. You can also enjoy those moonlit late night swims or evening jacuzzi soaks that might not be possible with the limited hours that come with public pools. It also brings with it the convenience of allowing kids or grandkids to swim while you’re cooking dinner or entertaining.

Cons

Sure, you’d think your very own pool would come with lots of privacy, but by being the family with the fancy swimming pool you may just get lots of friends and neighbors unceremoniously popping by for a dip. Buyer beware!

Risky Business?

Pros

When taking family members to public pools it can sometimes feel more difficult keeping an eye on everyone. The privacy of having a home pool allows you to keep the kiddos close to home.

Cons

With an at-home pool you’ll have to take specific precautions to avoid the dangers of the standing water on your property. This could create an added layer of liability for you, especially if you invite neighbors over to enjoy a dip every once in awhile. Check with your homeowner’s insurance company for any needed additions, and be sure you know the laws around protecting your backyard from the public wandering in.

A pool can be a fun, exciting addition to your home but it’s a personal choice. It’s always best to weigh your options, think through them, and decide if the joy you’ll get from the pool will outweigh any of the cons. Happy summer swimming!