5 Key Things To Consider Before You Install A Swimming Pool at Your Home
1. What type of pool?
Your first decision is above-ground or in-ground. The former are cheaper although they can range in price considerably, from an inflatable that’s not much more than a large paddling pool to some really fancy landscaped options. Options for in-ground pools include fibreglass pools or the more traditional block and liner or tiled concrete pools. Don’t forget to budget for digging/lifting equipment, and for the transport of fibreglass pools. How will you install it? You could do it yourself, but this should only really be considered by those with building experience, unless you’re installing a small splashpool. If you use a specialist company, get a number of quotes and if you can, ask local pool owners for recommendations. Will you heat it? This will prolong the swimming season, and may be more important if you rent out your home to holidaymakers. Options include electric, solar and air-source heating. A solar cover can also maintain water temperature. You’ll also need to decide on filtrations systems – more of that later. 5 Key Things To Consider Before You Install A Swimming Pool at Your Home
2. Will you need planning permission?
Above-ground pools don’t usually need permission. For an in-ground pool, plans will need to be drawn up and approved at the mairie (town hall); pools under 100m2 need a déclaration préalable de travaux; those over 100m2 need a permis de construire. If you’re using a professional installer, they will normally get the permits. Note that you should inform the authorities of any improvements made to your property; your property taxes may be altered accordingly. Above-ground pools do not increase your taxe foncière.
3. Where will you put your pool?
If you’re lucky enough to have a tumbledown barn at your property, these can be used to create an enclosed pool area full of character. Alternatively, a spot with fabulous views might be your preference. Or would you like to be able to see it from your house, perhaps to simply walk out of your patio doors onto the pool terrace? Either way, consider the location of water and electricity supplies – especially important if you’re using electric heating. If you’re using solar heating, you’ll need a sunny site of course but even if you’re not, more sunshine will mean warmer water and more use of the pool – and better sunbathing opportunities! Will you need a poolhouse? An old outbuilding might be perfect for the job. You’ll also need to decide how you will landscape the area around your pool. And don’t forget about the displaced earth – will you dispose of it or can it be moved elsewhere on your land, perhaps to make a garden feature such as a raised rockery. If possible, site your pool away from trees and shrubs to avoid leaves and other debris ending up in it. Keep potted plants away too, and avoid having loose gravel or dirt around the pool. Consider access too, as a tricky location may add to costs.
4. Is security essential?
Yes! Since the 2003 loi Raffarin was brought in, all in-ground outdoor pools need an approved security system (indoor and above-ground pools are exempt Your choice of security systems, which must comply with standards set by AFNOR, are:
- An enclosure, fence or barrier made from a variety of materials such as wood or metal but it can’t be a natural barrier such as a hedge (NF P90 306).
- An alarm, either a perimeter alarm using infrared beams to detect when someone enters the area or an immersion alarm which senses if someone falls into the water (NF P90 307).
- A safety cover that can withstand the weight of an adult (NF P90 308).
- A pool shelter or abris (NF P90 309); these also extend your swimming season.
A healthy pool needs a strict and regular cleaning regime – the pH of the water must be kept stable and an agent added to kill bacteria in the water. Salt, bromine, chlorine, ionisation or a combination are just some of the options. If correctly used, chlorine (the most popular method) shouldn’t smell or irritate eyes or skin. Saltwater pools are actually chlorine too; the salt in the water is converted to sodium hypochlorite (liquid chlorine) by electrolysis. Although the salt makes the water feel softer, the sanitising effect should be the same as a chlorine pool.
Automatic dosing systems take the guesswork out of the equation, but it’s still a good idea to use a digital strip tester. Don’t overheat your pool – anything over 28oC will encourage algae growth. The other key component is the pump and filtration system, which should be able to circulate the contents of the pool within eight hours. The dirtier the pool, the quicker the system will clog up; keep the filters clean and you will have a clean pool. If possible install a poolside shower to rinse dirty feet and suncreamed bodies and keep the pool covered when not in use. If you don’t live full-time at your French property, you’ll need someone to look after your pool, even if you have gadgets such as a robot cleaner and automatic chemical devices. Finally, if you rent out your property, make sure you leave clear instructions for the use and care of your pool.
sources: French Porperty News, June 2018
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