Is My Backyard Suitable For A Swimming Pool?

Ultimately, there are many factors that determine whether a swimming pool is suitable for your backyard. We know that all backyards can be different in terms of the size, access, layout and the soil quality.

If you do have a challenging block, it is important to work with an experienced pool builder who is confident and has the experience in installing pools in similar yards. That way you can be assured that they have the knowledge and experience to provide you with the best design suited to the space you have to work with. 

The rock and slope in your background are not just the things to consider when planning your dream pool and outdoor area! Our experienced team at Newcastle Swimming Pools can advise you on the factors that you should consider, plus the options you can choose from based on your backyard. If you have any questions regarding the suitability of a fibreglass pool for your home, call our friendly team at Newcastle Swimming Pools today. 

See here for more tips on if your backyard is suited for a pool!

How much space do I need for a swimming pool? 

There are few things to consider if you are short on space. For example: 

  • Do you still want a grass area available for your kids to play and pets to use?
  • Is outdoor entertaining a priority for you?
  • Do you need privacy from your neighbours
  • Are you planning on landscaping around your pool?
  • Are you wanting room around the pool for day-beds or other furniture
  • Are there any added features you wish to add later on such as a pool shower, slides or water features? 

As a general rule, the pool and the pool surrounds should occupy about 25% of the total area in your outdoor space. This will allow you to create an entertaining area or room for the kids to play. If you are not sure if you have the room to accommodate a swimming pool, rest assured that we have a wide range of pools which suit every backyard. Our smallest pool is our Billabong Slimline Plunge pool (4.2m x 1.6m). We also have a range of spas if you are looking for something smaller. With limited space, it’s a good idea to position the swimming pool close to the house or fence, as this will make the space that you have look bigger. 

Check council regulations & utilities 

It is recommended to check with your local council to see if there are any zoning, safety or local building regulations that you need to comply with, in the beginning of the process to install a pool. Each state has slightly different rules. The main thing you will be looking to avoid is putting the pool over storm drains, power, sewers, and gas pipes, as this can be quite costly if any repairs need to be made. Your local council will be able to give you information of their

location, and your pool expert can make sure they are not installing in the wrong spot. Also the other regulations to keep in mind, like fencing laws. Australian law is that every swimming pool and spa must have a fence around it. It is a good idea to organise your pool fence even before choosing your swimming pool.This is because the fence you legally need could have an impact 

on the size of pool you choose. Also if your property is in a flood zone, there will generally be a lot more engineering work that will go into installing a fibreglass pool. Newcastle Swimming Pools have many years of experience in the pool building industry and we will be able to assist you to ensure all legal requirements are made. 

Thinking an above ground pool is right for you? See more here!

Can you install a fibreglass pool on a sloping block? 

Our state of the art technology allows us to design our fibreglass pools to fit in practically any yard. Many new and existing homes these days are on some sort of sloped land. When installing on a slope, most of the time a deck or patio is built around the pool, this will allow your outdoor area and swimming pool to come together and will be an attractive feature to your home. 

In some cases, the slope can be flattened out with extra construction work and another option is a retaining wall to be built which will separate higher areas of your yard to the lower ones. The most important issue on a sloping block is the drainage. Drainage is super important for all pools, and even more for a pool on a sloping block. Drainage has to be installed and directed away from your home, so that water doesn’t flow towards it. If it rains and there is an excessive amount of water or a leak in your pool, it could erode the slope that the pool is installed on and damage the foundations or worse your home. 

The cost of installing a fibreglass pool on a sloping block is varied depending on the access, the steepness of the block and the quality of the soil/rock. A pool installed on a sloping block can be quite an attractive feature to your home. A deck or patio installed around the pool can really bring the outdoor entertainment area and swimming pool together. When installing a fibreglass pool, it is best to avoid the steepest part of the yard, as this will save money and time on the excavation and earthworks.

Newcastle Swimming Pools have an extensive amount of experience when it comes to installing fibreglass swimming pools, and all of our team are licensed and qualified pool builders. We understand that investing in a swimming pool is a huge decision and cost, so we pride ourselves on being open and honest in communicating throughout the whole process. If you are looking to purchase a top-quality fibreglass pool and would like some advice to see if your backyard is suitable, then give us a call today and our friendly team will be happy to help you!