What do we look for when purchasing a swimming pool?

Question

We're buying a new home in Arizona and one of the incentives is a new pool. We're sure it will be basic and we know it includes the filter and stuff like that. However, we're sure it won't be top of the line stuff. The included pool is 80 perimeter feet.

What should we look for when choosing options? My wife would like a "normal" pool and so we're not really interested in salt water.

We don't want to spend a ton on upgrades but may want to upgrade things that we can't do later. Or things that will cost too much later.

Thanks!!

Some more info to clarify: The pool will be brand new and does not already exist. We get to pick the features and options. Thanks!

Answer 1

I'm assuming you have an in-ground gunite..

- Check the concrete decking and the coping (the usually-rounded-off edge of the pool to the concrete decking) for cracks and movement and uneven edges, as well as minor cracks in the pool itself. These could indicate the ground around the pool is unstable, and the decking is more susceptible to erosion and can slide away from supporting the pool.

- Check if any equipment is being sold with the pool, or comes with the pool if you cannot afford to buy any, or just wanna save some money (who's not?)

- Don't let looks decieve you. If there is water in the pool and it is crystal clear, make sure to get a sample of the water (I'd say a 1 cup worth) and take it to the local pool supply shop, where they can run a battery of tests on the water to make sure your chemical levels are where they need to be and that it's safe to swim in. (If Leslie's Pool Supply is out there, that's who I trust with all my pool equipment and advice with.) If it's not, you can stock up on what you need there.

Answer 2

I would prefer the salt water - since chlorine kills bacteria on the skin - and

in your drinking water - it kills the active flora in your digestive system that the 'new' yogurt replaces

I shower in chlorine-free water, by the way, but

it's your health and your choice