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Putting an in-ground pool on your property will not only provide a boost to your leisure time activities but it can potentially increase the value of your home. Although installation of a pool is a major undertaking, it is one that can be stimulating and well worth the time and money as it can be a long process.

Installation of an in-ground pool in your backyard first requires that you check with the city for any building codes or restrictions that might apply. If your home is in a community with a homeowner's association you should obtain any necessary permits or required documentation before you proceed. Sometimes you even need to get the signatures of your neighbors so that they are aware of the construction as well.

It is important that you do as much research ahead of time so that there aren't any surprises. Choosing the right location for the pool is essential so that it gets sufficient sun and is not located under trees that will drop leaves and other debris into the pool. You should evaluate the soil in the area although a pool can usually be put in just about any type of soil but the harder it is the more difficult it will be to dig a hole -- adding more dollars to your expenses for the use of jackhammers or even hauling away rocks. Underground sewers, gas, water, electrical lines, and other pipes should be avoided, as well as any low lying areas that might potentially flood from ground water.

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Determine how your pool will be used -- if you have small children you might want to consider a shallow pool or one end that is much lower to accommodate their activities. If you want to be able to dive or swim laps, then the pool will need to be deeper and probably larger so that you can get the exercise you are looking for. Access to the pool is a key consideration for safety so you should ensure that the entire pool can be clearly seen from the house with no shrubbery or trees blocking it. If you plan to use the pool area as an entertainment center and as an extension of the living space, you should plan the decking and surrounding areas carefully. If you want to have a Jacuzzi or hot tub as an adjunct to the pool, you will want an area that is more private so there is less visibility from neighbors.

Planning how your pool should look and the design is the first step, but there are many more considerations before construction begins. There are three types of in-ground pools -- concrete, fiberglass, and vinyl -- with each requiring a filter, drains, a pump and a chemical feeder.  The most common type of pool is concrete and although they might take longer to build, they offer the most variety of choices in terms of design with endless possibilities. Once excavated, the pool forms are set and dry gunned concrete or gunite is applied by spraying the area with a pneumatic sprayer for approximately thirty minutes. The gunite is actually a mixture of cement, sand and water that is strictly controlled by the mixer. Any stairs or other formations are shaped by hand. With any color or texture available, your choices are unlimited on what type of surface your pool is finished with. Customization is one of the big benefits of this type of pool construction.

Fiberglass pools are faster to install than concrete ones and are known for their resistance to algae and stains. This type of pool comes in a selection of different shapes that are pre-formed so that they arrive at the site in one piece that is essentially dropped into the excavated hole with the use of a crane, so easy access is important as well. The filtration and heating system is then installed and the area is backfilled before the pool is finished. If you are installing a fiberglass pool, you should find out if the staff is trained by the factory and find out what the warranties are and the types of materials used.

Vinyl pools are the least expensive type of in-ground pool and have even fewer options available in terms of design or shape. These offer a smooth surface that is resistant to staining as well. After excavation a wall is constructed around the hole made of steel, polymer, wood or poured concrete and will require a layer of poured concrete or packed sand that will be underneath the vinyl pool liner. The filter and heating systems are then installed and the pool is filled. Depending on the amount of use and the location of the pool, liners made of vinyl may need to be replaced as often as every ten years.

Deciding on a pool type is one thing, but when it comes to installation it is important that you have it done right for not only aesthetic reasons but also safety. Like anything else, there are varying degrees of quality in pool products so choosing the right pool contractor is critical to get the best finished product. You should get several bids and you should ask for references and if possible visit the sites of other pools that have been completed by this builder so that you feel confident that he understands exactly what you want and that he is knowledgeable about the type of installation you have decided on.

Ask questions so that you know if the builder understands all the building and grading requirements, zoning regulations, or permits needed to get the job done.  Check to see that the company is financially sound and is reputable and will stand behind its products.  Choosing the least expensive is not necessarily the right choice when installing a pool as safety and quality should be a concern. Some people opt to install an in-ground pool themselves, but it is recommended that a professional be hired who is knowledgeable about the intricacies of installing a pool that will provide you and your family with endless years of relaxation and entertainment.