10 Tips to keep your pool project in budget

Are you wanting to plan a pool project for this summer? We know how hard it can be to stick to a budget, especially when it comes to something as costly as a pool! To make your hardscape project a success without breaking the bank, here are 10 tips to keep your hardscape pool project on budget.

Tip #1: Make a Pool Project Budget Plan

You can’t stay on budget if you don’t have a plan. Outline all your hardscape pool needs and prioritize them accordingly. Start with the most important features and then work your way down to the least essential. By mapping out a budget plan, you can ensure that there will be enough money left over for any unanticipated expenses or special requests later on in the hardscape pool project.

Tip #2: Minimize Landscaping 

Landscaping around your hardscape pool can add a nice touch, but keeping it minimal is the key to staying within budget. Consider how much landscaping you really need and opt for low-maintenance plants that won’t require too much upkeep. This will help keep your hardscape pool project on track financially.

Tip #3: Consider Installment Phases

Breaking up your hardscape pool project into several phases is one of the best ways to manage your budget without compromising on quality. This approach allows you to focus on completing one phase at a time while gradually building up the hardscape pool and its features as your budget allows.

Tip #4: Gunite vs Fiberglass vs Liner

When it comes to hardscape pools, there are three main options: Gunite, Fiberglass, & Liner pools. All offer different benefits; while gunite provides greater design flexibility, fiberglass is the easiest to maintain. And then you have the low costs of a liner pool. Consider these pros and cons when making your choice. Our designers can help go over the details of each option.

Tip #5 Design for Furniture Needs

Your hardscape pool area should have enough space for furniture and seating. Make sure to design your hardscape pool with enough room around it to comfortably accommodate any furniture you might want to add in the future. This will save you money, as well as time, since you won’t need to install any additional features later on.

Tip #6: Minimize Pool Decking

Decking is a great way to spruce up your hardscape pool, but too much of it can quickly eat up your budget! Opt for minimal decking around the hardscape pool that fits into your design and stick with a standard size instead of going overboard with custom decks and materials.

Tip #7: Think About What Size is Needed

Your pool doesn’t need to be the biggest one on the block. The size of your pool should fit both your space and budget constraints; consider what size will work best for you before making any decisions. In addition, a larger hardscape pool will require more materials, labor, and maintenance costs which could quickly deplete your budget.

Tip #8: Opt for Quality Over Quantity

The old adage “you get what you pay for” applies when it comes to hardscape pools too. While it can be tempting to go with cheaper options in order to save money, this could end up costing you more in the long run if the materials used are of lower quality. Investing in higher-quality materials will ensure that your hardscape pool lasts much longer and is less susceptible to damage and costly repairs in the future.

Tip #9: Work with Experienced Designers

Having an experienced hardscape pool designer on your team can help you stay within budget and create a hardscape pool that meets all of your needs. An experienced hardscape pool designer can suggest cost-effective solutions and make sure the hardscape pool is designed to perfectly fit into its space.

Tip #10: Stick with Straight Edges Rather than Curved Pools

When designing a hardscape pool, it’s usually better to go with sharp edges rather than curved ones. Curved pools require more materials and labor which may increase costs quickly. Additionally, sharp edges give the hardscape pool a cleaner, more modern look which could add value over time.

Following these 10 tips can ensure that you stay within your pool project budget. With careful planning and good communication between all parties involved, your hardscape pool project can remain on track without compromising quality!