Swimming in a backyard pool is one of the quintessential summer activities for kids and adults alike. A swimming pool can create a centerpiece for homeowners to entertain around, giving families, friends and neighbors a convenient way to gather for summer events. 

As several homeowners may be considering taking the plunge and adding a pool, there are multiple factors that need to be taken into consideration before they can officially dive in.

Besides the pool itself, many people try to create a cohesive outdoor space with features like outdoor kitchens, patios or decks.

“When homeowners talk to us about adding a pool, the conversation almost always comes back to the same thing: They want to create space in their backyard where their family can actually spend time together and truly relax. …. They want a place where everyone naturally gathers and enjoys each other,” says Andy Bari, owner of Westrock Pool & Spa. 

That’s why it’s important that homeowners consider their lifestyle and how they envision the pool becoming part of the equation. This gives contractors a better idea of how the pool design will complement the backyard layout to ensure the best long-term result. 

Other key factors to take into consideration include both budget as well as what state and local regulations are in place.

“In New Jersey, there’s a lot of impervious restrictions where you can only have a certain percentage of your property covered by something that water doesn’t penetrate, like your concrete walkway. We run into a lot of times where people can’t do everything they’re looking for because the town won’t allow them to. But if they have the budget and they have the coverage, it’s very popular for people to [add] outdoor kitchens, pergolas, fire pits or grottoes,” says Derek C. Blasker, owner, Pool Designs.

The shape, size and style of pool also impact the budget, as well as being subject to different trends as things ebb and flow in and out of fashion. Semi-inground pools, installed mostly below ground and partially above, can reduce the price of a project by up to 50% of the cost of a fully inground pool. 

Sport and cocktail plunge pools are also rising in popularity. Sport pools give families, especially those with young children who may not yet be able to safely swim on their own, a wide, open play area with water depths ranging from three-and-a-half to no more than six feet. Cocktail plunge pools are smaller and more intimate bodies of water that work well for cooling down, sitting with friends or lounging on a pool float. 

As for shape, according to Dominic DiCesare, general manager of Blue Haven Pools & Spas by Calvitti, rectangular pools have been making a splash as of late.

“We see that everybody’s looking for more of that rectangular looking pool. … We still do a fair amount of free forms, it depends on the yard, but the trend seems to be more rectangular pools now,” says DiCesare. 

Trends in the finishes of pools have also changed, with more homeowners opting for a higher-end look.

“We’re seeing a lot of clean, modern designs with geometric shapes, darker finishes and integrated spas,” says Sam Waddell, owner of SLS Landscaping, Inc. 

Keeping pool water clean and clear is no easy task, meaning the sanitation system chosen is one of the most important factors when considering a pool. While manually added chlorine is the traditional method, saltwater pools has been the most popular option, being easier on the skin and eyes, and requiring less overall maintenance. 

“Saltwater pools are still very popular because they’re easier on the skin and require less maintenance. That said, we guide clients based on their preferences and how they plan to use the pool,” says Waddell. 

Other systems and methods that are becoming increasingly popular are ozone systems and UV light, with ozone allowing for less chlorine due to the oxygenation of the water, while UV’s ability to kill bacteria itself allows for a reduction in needed chlorine as well. 

“We’ve been installing saltwater systems for the last 10-plus years. It’s still chlorine (generated from salt and electricity), but the water feels soft and silky on your skin—no more red eyes or dry skin. We also add ozone systems that oxygenate the water and dramatically reduce the amount of chlorine you actually need, keeping everything crystal clear and healthy,” says Bari. 

Accessories, both necessary and luxury, are a major part of any discussion around adding a pool to a home’s backyard. Lights and heaters ensure the pool remains comfortable and safe while actively in use, while a safety cover keeps people and pets safe during the off season.

“A safety cover is generally a must have, especially when you have a large portion of your backyard that’s a pool. If it’s snowing outside, you can’t see the difference. If you have pets that are going to run out into the yard, they’re not going to know where the pool and the cover are, you would want to have a safety cover there so that they don’t fall in,” says Blasker. 

Some of these accessories can add significantly to the price of the project, like stormwater management systems which ensure rain runoff does not damage the structure of the pool, flush debris into it or raise the water level, potentially adding anywhere from $5,000 to $50,000 to the project. 

“You have to get an engineer involved to get the whole thing started. So they’re spending money, and they may not be able to get what they want based on the town they live in. It makes it a little more challenging to educate the customer on what they could do in their backyard,” says DiCesare. 

However, this additional cost helps to reduce the risk of needing expensive repairs or replacements down the line, protecting the investment. 

Accessories can also add to the luxury and convenience of the pool area, even if they are not necessities. Automated cleaners give owners an easy, low-maintenance way to keep the pool clean. Sun decks or tanning ledges, bubblers, water features like waterfalls, built-in benches and therapy jets allow for a more resort-like backyard environment and offer more ways to relax while spending time with family and friends. 

Homeowners should also take into account not only what design and features they would like in their pool, but also be careful in choosing a reliable contractor who has the skills to install the pool fully and correctly. 

“Find someone that has the experience, get the references and look at their reviews. Make sure that they’re going to come back and finish the job. Never give them all the money on the first day. … There’s a lot of trust involved, and you need to trust who you’re dealing with,” says Blasker. 

Published (and copyrighted) in House & Home, Volume 25, Issue 12 (March/April 2026)
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