Don’t forget these critical steps while planning your new pool in The Lehigh Valley

When planning a new in-ground concrete swimming pool, homeowners often face several challenges that can make the process feel daunting without expert guidance. One common issue is understanding the construction timeline and the disruption it can bring to their daily lives. Building a gunite pool is not an overnight project; it involves excavation, plumbing, electrical work, curing and finishing stages that can span weeks. Another challenge is navigating the array of features and finishes available. From pool automation systems to water and fire features, the choices can quickly become overwhelming.

Customization

Concrete pools offer unparalleled customization when it comes to depth, shape, and features, but each component comes with its own set of pros and cons. For instance, the plumbing systems in a concrete pool are integral to its operation, ensuring proper circulation and filtration, but poor installation can lead to costly leaks or pressure issues. Automation systems make it easier to control the pool’s heating, lighting, and cleaning from your smartphone, but the initial investment can be high. Finishes like plaster or pebble add aesthetic value, but they also determine the pool’s longevity and comfort. Spas, water features, and fire features enhance the luxury experience but add to the complexity of the design and the overall budget. For many, these features are worth it, as they elevate the pool into a true backyard oasis, but they require a thoughtful balance of aesthetics and functionality.

How Much does a Concrete Pool Cost in the Lehigh Valley?

There are many factors that play a part in the investment required to have an inground concrete pool installed, lets take a closer look. Some townships requirements are much stricter, requiring different levels of engineering and plans like surveys, grading plans and structural prints. Typically, it’s safe to plan for between $5,000 – $10,000 in engineering and permit costs to get through the preconstruction, design and permitting phase.

For smaller pools, the base cost is usually around $80,000 – $90,000, while medium to larger pools are often between $110,000 and $150,000. Things like spas, slides, automation, fencing, decking and shade structures or pool houses can drive up the cost of a backyard pool project significantly. The average cost of an outdoor living project in the Lehigh Valley with a gunite pool and resort like features usually starts around $300,000.

It Takes More Than Just A Pool

Beyond the pool itself, there are other important aspects to consider when planning. Safety features, such as fencing and pool covers, are essential for protecting both children and pets and adhering to building codes. The surrounding pool decking plays a key role in the overall experience, affecting both safety and the aesthetic of the pool area. Popular choices include concrete, natural stone, concrete pavers, synthetic or natural turf, or even wood or composite decking, each offering different advantages in terms of maintenance, cost, and visual appeal. Additionally, landscaping, storage, and lighting need to be factored into the design. Proper lighting around the pool not only enhances safety but also allows for nighttime swimming. A well-designed pool house or pavilion can provide coverage from the elements for cooking or lounging and extend the outdoor living season by weeks or even months. A pool house or cabana can also serve as a storage area providing a place to keep equipment, toys, and maintenance tools neatly tucked away.

The Finishing Touches

Landscaping around the pool is another critical factor that significantly affects the pool area. A tastefully designed landscape design can be the deciding factor in whether the pool adds value to the property or does the opposite, determining whether the pool area feels like a lush resort or just a pool. Low-maintenance plants and trees that do not shed too much debris into the water are ideal, and incorporating lighting into the landscape can highlight the pool area’s best features during the evening, giving the space that “resort feel”.

In conclusion building an in-ground concrete pool involves many decisions beyond simply choosing the shape and size of the pool. From plumbing and automation to decking and landscaping, every aspect requires careful consideration to ensure that your pool not only looks beautiful but is safe and functional for years to come. At Kennedy Design Build, we specialize in helping our clients navigate this complex process. We understand the importance of creating a pool that fits both your vision and your budget while ensuring that all the necessary components—both visible and behind-the-scenes—are expertly planned and installed. Let us help guide you through the journey to create a pool that will be the centerpiece of your outdoor living space.