Griffin Pools often gets asked about the difficulties of owning your own swimming pool. While owning a pool requires some maintenance, many of these ownership difficulties are not what they seem. Below, Griffin Pools will do our best to put some of the most common swimming pool construction myths to rest.
Trust us, owning a pool isn’t as daunting as it may seem. You’ll see why with Griffin Pools’ new construction. We’re dedicated to your relaxation and quality family time after our installations.
Myth #1:
I can’t afford a swimming pool
Owning a pool is a lot easier than you think. There are many reasonably priced options for putting a pool in your backyard. The type of pool, materials, accessories, add-ons, screening, and lighting you choose will influence the cost of the project. This gives a lot of leniency in the price.
Beyond this, Griffin Pools is proud to be able to offer financing options with a long-term mortgage. We are always more than willing to discuss financing options with our customers. We’re willing to find the best monthly payment plan that fits you.
You should remember that your pool will help reduce other expenses. These may include the cost of vacations away from home, membership dues to country clubs or health clubs for swimming.
Myth #2:
My yard will be ruined for a year and work men will always be around
Griffin Pools has been building pools for a long time, and we know how to get the job done right. An accurate understanding of the pool building process will help you develop realistic expectations for the completion of your pool. Many of our pools are completed in under eight weeks. But obviously, unforeseen factors such as the weather or permit delays can affect the building process. A good builder will communicate any changes in the project schedule to you as soon as possible.
Myth #3:
It takes too much time and effort to maintain a Swimming pool
You can always hire a professional to maintain your pool. However, with today’s cost-effective technology, we can make the maintenance time vanish. Today, you can get the same great results in very little time with new technology. Automatic pool cleaners and sanitizing devices make your pool simple to maintain. In fact, maintaining a pool is easier than maintaining your car or your lawn and often less expensive.
Myth #4:
My electric bill will significantly go up if I own a pool
Studies actually show that air conditioners cost much more to run than the addition of an electric pool pump. Utility bills vary depending on where you live, square footage of your home, and who your provider is. However, average estimates show that utility bills only increase between $20-30 with today’s energy-efficient pumps.
Reducing the cost associated with your new pool construction typically comes down to selecting the right pump for the job, and Griffin Pools will guide you to the most cost-effective solutions for long-term savings.
Regardless, the cost of the energy bill increase is minute when compared to the money you would otherwise spend on entertainment and vacations, including the expense of gasoline, food, and accommodations.
Myth #5:
I am afraid of the risk of accidents and drownings at my pool
There are inherent dangers in owning a swimming pool in your own backyard, but these risks can be mitigated significantly if protocols are in place and followed closely. Attentive adult supervision is always the best way to maintain a safe pool. But physical pool barriers, fences, pool covers, gates, and pool alarms offer additional layers of protection to enhance safety.
Most important, pool owners must ensure everyone who enters the pool — especially those who live in the household — knows how to swim, or is wearing a life jacket vest. Some experts believe that having a pool actually saves untold lives because children who learn to swim at a very early age are less likely to drown in an emergency situation later in life.
Myth #6:
I am worried about the increased insurance and liability that may come with owning a pool
It is not a fact that insurance rates will go up with pool ownership, though a higher level of liability insurance is recommended for homeowners. Homeowners should always check with their current insurance brokers and shop around for the best coverage available.
You should also contract with a reputable builder, carefully read safety materials, closely follow safety equipment instructions, and ensure that there is adult supervision of the pool at all times. Many good pool builders discourage the additions of a diving board or slides to new swimming pool construction to keep these added liability costs down.
Myth #7:
Swimming Pools require constant repair
You should research a builder’s work and ask questions about the longevity of the pool types they are considering, as each pool is uniquely customizable. Often, the result follows the old adage: you get what you pay for. Proper cleaning and maintenance prevent the need for unscheduled refurbishing and some companies may offer a lifetime guarantee for the pools they install.
One of the most important indicators of quality is how long the company has been in business, as the builders constructing quality, durable pools are most likely to still be in business. We’ve been constructing new pools since 1975, and can guarantee the quality of our pools to ensure you won’t need future repairs.
Myth #8:
I am afraid of inadvertently hiring a dishonest pool builder
There are several indicators to verify the history and reputation of your pool builder. Like with any building project, you should always check a builder’s professional credentials, ask for references and view samples of their completed work. It’s also important to check online reviews of the pool builder you’re considering and see what customers are saying.
You can also call the county or city municipality permit office and code enforcement and ask for an opinion of the builder. You should check if they have ever been in front of the licensing board for complaints and/or violations.
Myth #9:
A pool is a big investment and financing will be really difficult
Homeowners can finance a pool with a long-term mortgage to bundle both into one. This often saves families money by combining them rather than having two separate loans.
Additionally, pool builders with great reputations will be able to offer financing options with their industry and financing experience. Griffin Pools will be able to explain and talk through your financing options, loan terms, and current interest rates to help you find a manageable monthly payment plan. In today’s lending environment, pool financing is as easy as financing a car.
Myth #10:
I have heard that swimming pools detract from a home in the real estate market
This is not true, especially in Florida, the second-highest pool-dense state in America. In Florida, families looking for a home often enter with a prerequisite of wanting a backyard pool. Banks and other financial lenders often look favorably upon swimming pool financing. They consider it a “home improvement” that will increase both the current and resale value of the home.
A well-constructed in-ground pool could boost your home’s value by as much as 7%. This is particularly true in a state like Florida, where your pool can remain open year-round.
Trust Griffin Pools
As Polk County and Central Florida’s most trusted and professional swimming pool, spa and water feature builder, we believe in providing potential pool owners with the information necessary to make the right decision for them and their families. If you are interested in learning more about our pools, feel free to send us a question using our contact form or give us a call at (863) 665-8080 if you have any questions at all.
