As you suffer through another scorching summer, do you dream about your kids laughing and splashing in a backyard pool? Most likely, you decide the time is right to invest in a pool. After all, nothing is as refreshing for you and your family as a sparkling pool on a sweltering day. But, before the backhoe arrives in your yard, there’s a lot to know about which pool size is the perfect fit for your outdoor space. Also, a new pool is a big investment, so you want to consider which swim pool size fits your budget.

Are you thinking about an entertaining area beside the pool? This is something that would affect the space allotted to your pool.

This guide on how to pick the right pool size can help you turn your backyard into a cooling oasis.

Getting a Sense of Pool Sizes

Before going outside to measure the size of your pool, it’s a good idea to answer these questions for getting a sense of how big it can be.

• Have you considered space for the pool fence?

• What are the municipal laws regarding fencing and pool setback from your house and property lines?

• What size can you fit in your backyard?

• What shape and depth are you thinking about?

• How many people will be using the pool?

• Will anyone want to swim laps?

• What size patio area do you want near the pool?

• Do you want a fiberglass or concrete pool?

• What is your budget?

Answering these questions can help you determine the average pool size you can choose. A nicely designed pool in keeping with the overall size of your yard will keep your family cool for hours of fun in the sun.

Pool Size Depends on Space and Activities

Calculating your pool size depends on the layout of your property and how much space you have. You should also think about what you want from a pool.

For example, if you want it for exercise, you should probably choose a long, straight pool for laps. If it’s for your kids to swim and play water games, then you have the freedom to choose any size and shape you want.

We spoke with Pool Rescuers, who share the same sentiment. “The size and shape of your pool should be tailored to the available space and the intended use. For those aiming for fitness and lap swimming, a long, narrow design is ideal, ensuring sufficient length for uninterrupted laps. Conversely, options become more flexible if the goal is leisure and play, particularly for children. Here, size and shape can vary widely to accommodate creative designs and features that enhance enjoyment and playfulness. This approach ensures your pool fits physically and meets your needs and lifestyle,” they said.

Also, if you’re planning a family pool, it’s a good idea to have shallow areas for your kids to play.

Factors to Consider

The first thing to consider is who’ll be using your pool the most. Is it for your children? What are their ages? Do you have an elderly family member who will use the pool?

If anyone in your family has mobility problems, you might want a sloping entrance rather than steps. This would require a pool with additional length, which would affect the pool size.

Are you planning on having pool parties and inviting your children’s friends over to swim? These activities require a larger pool.

On the other hand, if you only want an occasional dip to cool off, you can go with a smaller pool.

Think About Accessories

Also, consider any accessories you add to the pool, such as a slide or diving board. Both of these influence the size of the pool. For example, a diving board typically needs a pool that’s at least 34 to 36 feet long. You would need to research your local safety codes for specific requirements.

Another factor for the pool size is if you want an outdoor patio, kitchen or play area for your children. These things can limit the size of the pool you select.

Lastly, your project budget is an important factor in choosing pool sizes. Your pool builder can help you determine the right size pool for your home, as well as how you can use the space around the pool.

How Deep Should You Make Your Pool?

In the past, standard backyard swimming pools had a shallow end which transitioned to a deep end. The shallow side was usually from 3-feet to 4-feet deep. The deep end was from 5-feet to 9-feet deep.

Deep in the Middle

Today’s customized pools don’t conform to the traditional shallow and deep ends. Some pool designs have a deep side in the middle of the pool.

But, even the deep area might only be 5 or 6 feet. This type of pool design gives you more usable space for your children and even adults who’d rather stand up in the water.

Offset Shallow Area

Another option is a designated shallow end. For example, in an L-shaped pool, the deep end would be the long part of the L, while the shallow end would be the short foot of the L-shape. This is convenient when someone wants to swim laps in the deep end, but it still allows for play in the shallow area.

Standard Depth for Swimming Activities

These are the typical water depths for standard swimming pool sizes for the home.

• Kiddie pool — 3-feet deep

• Swimming laps ‚ At least 4-feet deep

• Water sports — Shallow depth of 3 to 4 feet on both ends

• Diving ‚ At least 8-feet deep

• Float lounging — 4-feet deep

Remember that a deeper pool will be more expensive to fill and maintain. It requires more chemicals, a larger pump, and filtration material.

Customize Your Swimming Pool

Once you know the size of the pool you want, you can make it completely customized. Your pool can take literally any shape. When designing a pool, you can mold it to fit your backyard perfectly.

The pool builder you choose can modify the pool shape whether you want a curvy, kidney, geometric, or Grecian pool. When choosing your design, think about how it fits with your home and yard. Also, the shape should align with your patio and outdoor landscaping plans.

You can also choose from a variety of add-ons for your pool. These include diving boards, tanning ledges, and attached spas. With the right accessories, you can make your pool one of a kind.

Ready to Plan Your Pool

Now that you know what to consider when choosing a pool size, you can start planning your pool design and budget. With so many pool styles and sizes to choose from, you can find the perfect style for you and your family.

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