Once you’ve decided to take the plunge and hire a swimming pool contractor, the next question you need to ask yourself is how far do you want to go with it? Having as swimming pool installed is great, but it’s the added features that make it a luxury.Today’s pools come in a variety of styles, from the ordinary to the spectacular. A qualified swimming contractor can help you choose among a variety of options from the standard rectangular shallow-to-deep model to a pool with elaborate features such as a fountain or a faux lagoon, complete with a waterfall, natural looking outcroppings and appropriate plantings.

It all depends on your taste and your pocket book. Even on a small budget, some basic amenities will make your pool more attractive and more enjoyable for you and your family.

Some of the basic amenities include:

SHADE: It’s great to swim in the sunshine, but if you want to enjoy lounging poolside, you might want to consider investing in an umbrella or two. If you’re having a deck installed as part of your pool package, ask the installer to include strategically placed umbrella holders as part of the package. That way you can move your shade wherever you need it. For permanent and more elaborate shade features, consider a gazebo, arbor or a couple of well placed awnings.

BARBECUE AND FIRE PITS: A poolside barbecue makes pool parties more enjoyable and saves you from running back and forth to the kitchen when you should be out by the pool having fun. When the sun sets, there are few things more relaxing or romantic than sitting by an open fire. Having a firepit close to the pool adds to the fun. Outdoor fire pits are popular now and a relatively affordable way to add to the ambiance of your existing pool. If you’re having a pool installed, consider having your swimming pool contractor add a permanent fire pit or grill as part of the package.

Don’t forget about LIGHTING and HEATERS. For nighttime pool parties, lights are an important safety feature that also add to the attractiveness of your pool. Heaters help you enjoy your pool into the evening and later into the season. In addition to heating the pool, consider purchasing a portable heater for the poolside, so your guests have somewhere to warm up when they get out of the water. Hire an accredited pool builder can help you decide what amenities would be best for your poolscape.

Think about what you want up front and you’ll be enjoying your pool for many seasons to come.

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