Swimming Pools...No Longer A Luxury

Swimming Pools, no longer cost a fortune to install. They come in all sizes, shapes, materials, and there are even do-it-yourself pools for the husbands who like such projects. Landscaping should essentially be done by an expert, and prices vary according to your needs and size of your lot. If you happen to have a green thumb, much of your landscaping can be another do-it-yourself project.



The garden area of your home need not go to waste. With planning, imagination and a small outlay of money you can turn it into a luxury spot the whole family can enjoy. Three basic ingredients go into the luxury look outdoors--a swimming pool, landscaping, lighting.

You may not have the space, or, more importantly, the money to have both a pool and a landscaped garden. But certainly the lighting is a must, because it gives your garden area day-into-night life. Furthermore, outdoor electrical outlets and fitments are easy to install and cost very little. And they add effective beauty to a pool, terrace or landscaped area after dark.

A swimming pool of your own is no longer a high priced luxury and beyond your reach, as it once was. Not only does a pool give you that extra summer pleasure for the entire family, but it is a home improvement investment that adds to the value of your home and property.

Many families in relatively low income brackets are beginning to build their own pools. This is because of the low cost, installment plans and bank loans. Most all banks are prepared to give loans for pools, because of the pool's investment value. In the past pool's were expensive because they were of poured concrete. However, it is the prefabricated pool made of aluminum, steel and fiberglass, and the plastic liner, that has put a swimming pool within everyone's reach.

Of course all pools need a certain amount of upkeep, and accessories such as water filters, underwater vacuum cleaner, pool cover and steps are essential. Extras such as underwater lights, diving board, heating system can always be added later. Most pools need between two to four hours care every week, sweeping, vacuuming, adding chemicals.

However, the water does not necessarily have to be changed often, as filtering and chemicals keep the water pure indefinitely. In winter, it is advisable to leave the water in the pool, as the water or ice counterbalances the frozen earth pressing in on the pool's sides.

There are legal complications to owning a pool, as it is a hazard to children and pets. A locking gate and at least a 4' fence is a must, as is liability insurance. There is also the added expense of terracing around the pool, although most homeowners can do this themselves. Wood decking is perhaps the most economical, although tiles, vinyl, carpet and flat stones or bricks can also be used.

Sunlight, wind, privacy and convenience are vital factors in the positioning of your pool.

Sunlight - Plenty of sun on a pool adds to the enjoyment; also, the water stays warmer longer so that evening dips are a pleasure. Place the pool where it gets most of the noon and afternoon sunlight. The diving board should be positioned so that the diver has his back to the sun and is not blinded by it. For very hot days, it is important to have shade near the poolside. Umbrellas or an extension canopy attached to the wall of the house are ideal; make sure trees and shrubs do not overhang the pool or shade it.

Wind - Protection against breezes is important, for comfort in and out of the water, and to prevent wind blown leaves and debris from falling into the pool.

Privacy - The pool should be placed to give maximum privacy for relaxation and pleasure. Fencing and landscaping arrangements are your best bet.

Convenience - It is important that your pool is positioned in a convenient place. It should be thought of as an extension of your home, and placed close to the house, if possible. Preferably it should be close to a door that's handy to the kitchen for food and beverages.

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