[deb133]

Hey guys,
My husband and I are starting to talk with a builder . . .getting ready to put in a pool. We are trying to avoid any pitfalls. Do any of you fine people have advice for us regarding what NOT to do. Do any of you have regrets about certain items you included or failed to include when you had your pool designed (for example; water features, fire pit, summer kitchen, extra bath/shower, storage, spa, planting area, size of lanai, size of birdcage, position of pool relative to house location, etc.) It is going to be a big project and we could use the advice. Many thanks...

[rjrex]

I would insure the proper plumbing for an automatic cleaner (like Polaris) is installed. You do not have to use it, but must be provided for during construction.

[Aceskaters]

In my former house I had a "sport" pool put in. It was relatively shallow on each end (3.5' and 4') and slightly deeper (5 feet) in the middle. We couldn't use it for diving, but it was very useful for lap swimming and playing pool volleyball. It was great for kids and grandkids. Also, since it was shallower, it took less water and chemicals to keep it going.

[starflyte1]

Our previous home had a large kidney shaped pool. If we ever build a pool, I would make it oblong so a solar cover would be easier to handle.