Hey there! Have you been thinking about installing a pool or spa in your backyard but don’t want to break the bank paying a pool company’s high markup? You’re not alone. Many homeowners are turning to do-it-yourself pool installations to save big time and still end up with their dream oasis.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In this guide, we’ll walk through how you can profit from handling your own pool or spa installation and avoid the inflated costs that come from using a traditional pool builder. There are definitely some challenges and risks with taking the DIY route, but when done right, you can save upwards of $20,000 and get total creative freedom with the end result. Sounds intriguing? Read on to learn more!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The #1 incentive for people building pools in their backyards<\/a> is being able to avoid the hefty price tag that comes with using a pool company. Professional pool builders have to cover their overhead, pay their staff, and make a profit. This leads to them marking up the cost of materials, equipment, and labor significantly compared to what you would pay if you sourced them yourself. Here are some of the ways you can slash costs by doing it yourself:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Pool builders will often double or even triple the wholesale prices they pay for concrete, tile, plumbing supplies and other materials. By purchasing these items yourself at contractor rates, you can easily shave 40-60% off retail costs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Not only can you get better prices on structural materials, you can also buy big ticket items like pumps, filters and heaters directly from equipment suppliers instead of paying inflated retail costs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Instead of paying the pool company’s marked up labor rates, you can hire specialty trades like electricians, plumbers and deck builders yourself and only pay their regular hourly fees.<\/p>\n\n\n\n With the right equipment rented, you can handle much of the dirt work like digging the hole, moving soil and basic grading to get the site prepped for a huge cost savings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n As you can see, taking on some of the tasks that pool builders traditionally handle opens up massive opportunities for cutting costs<\/a> and increasing your profit margin on the installation. But keep in mind you do need the time, energy and patience for the DIY route.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Installing a pool or spa yourself is definitely more complicated than just digging a hole and filling it with water (we wish it was that easy!). There are a number of steps involved to make sure your DIY pool is constructed safely and built to last. Here’s an overview of what’s involved:<\/p>\n\n\n\n The first phase is all about nailing down the specifics – what kind of pool or spa you want, where it will be located, how it will be configured. Some key aspects of planning include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Proper planning prevents poor performance! Invest time up front getting the design details right before you start digging.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Time to break out the excavator and get dirty! Key tasks include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Having the right earthmoving equipment makes this stage much more feasible (and fun!) as a DIYer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This is where it starts to look like a real pool! Structural installation involves:<\/p>\n\n\n\n The structural stage requires attention to detail to ensure proper bonding and prevent leaks down the road.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Applying finishes and adding decking creates the aesthetic. Key finishing steps include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Focus on quality and durability in materials to enhance longevity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The fun part – installing the pumps, filters, heaters and other mechanical equipment that makes it function! Primary tasks are:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Proper equipment sizing and installation is key to energy efficiency and functionality.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The final touches like:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Don’t neglect safety and smart landscaping choices.<\/p>\n\n\n\n As you can see, there are a lot of components involved in building a pool or spa. Making it a DIY project requires homework, preparation, patience and a commitment to quality construction principles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n While the cost savings of doing it yourself can be substantial, you don’t want to cut corners or do shoddy work that diminishes safety or longevity. Here are some tips for executing a pro-quality installation<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n By staying on top of regulations, being meticulous in your work, and using pros when required, you can ensure your DIY pool or spa meets professional quality standards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n To get the maximum value and enjoyment from your pool or spa installation, focus on choices that improve ROI:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Putting in the sweat equity upfront to build it yourself combined with making smart, value-focused choices gives you the best shot at recouping your DIY investment down the road.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Selecting the optimal location on your property is a key first step that sets up success for the rest of your DIY pool or spa project. You’ll want to thoroughly survey your yard and analyze a number of factors when deciding on the best site.<\/p>\n\n\n\n First, consider sun exposure. Aim to position the pool in a spot that receives maximum sunlight, at least 6 hours per day if possible. This allows the pool to passively heat without relying on energy from pumps and heaters. Carefully observe shady spots from trees, buildings or other structures and avoid those areas when choosing the location.<\/p>\n\n\n\n You’ll also want to ensure the site is easily accessible from your home for convenience. Locating it near patios, decks or heavily trafficked yard spaces makes it simple for family members to enjoy a quick dip or lounge by the water. On the other hand, don’t place the pool too far away in an isolated corner of the property or it won’t get used.<\/p>\n\n\n\n When evaluating locations, think about sightlines from interior rooms of your home as well as key outdoor living areas. Find a spot that showcases the pool as a central visual feature when looking out windows or glass doors. Also consider privacy – avoid putting the pool directly in front of a bedroom window or crowding close to a neighbor’s house. Careful fence or landscape planning can help boost seclusion if needed.<\/p>\n\n\n\nAvoiding pool company markups<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Wholesale pricing on equipment and materials<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Hiring contractors\/subcontractors directly<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Doing own excavation and prep work<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The DIY Pool Installation Process<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Planning and Design<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Excavation and Site Prep<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Pool Structure<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Finishes and Decking<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Equipment<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Landscaping and Safety<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Executing a Professional DIY Installation<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Maximizing Return on Investment<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Choosing the Right Site<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n