Read This Before Getting A Pool.

www.summertimepools.com.au/pool-knowledge-hub/everything-you-need-to-know-before-getting-a-pool

Thinking about a pool? Here's what to consider first.

A pool isn’t just a backyard upgrade - it’s a lifestyle shift. Think long summer afternoons, cannonball contests, and that golden hour glow as your kids splash under the setting sun. It’s not just water; it’s a way to connect, unwind, and make home the best part of your day.

But as magical as that sounds, turning the dream into reality takes a little planning. Here's your guide to getting it right - from budget to backyard layout, lifestyle fit to council approvals.

Is a pool the right fit for your family?

Before you dive in, let’s check the water temperature. A pool is a big commitment, and it works best when it fits smoothly into your lifestyle, space, and budget.

Start by asking yourself:

Lifestyle & Usage:

‍Can you see your family using the pool regularly - for fitness, relaxation, or to bring people together? Pools work best when they become part of your everyday rhythm, not just an occasional luxury.

Family & Social Life:

Do you love hosting gatherings or want the kids outside more often? Pools are social magnets. They naturally bring people together and give you more reasons to enjoy your home.

Future Plans:

‍Are you in your forever home, or planning to move in a few years? If you're putting down roots, a pool is a long-term investment in your family life and property value.

Budget & Maintenance:

Have you thought through the full cost—from installation to ongoing upkeep? Our pools are engineered for low maintenance, but it’s good to plan for long-term care.

Backyard Potential:

Do you have the space, or are you open to modifying your backyard to make it work? Even tricky yards can be transformed with the right design and team.

Local Regulations:

‍Not sure about permits, fencing, or council rules? That’s normal. We help guide families through the process every step of the way.

If you're nodding along to most of these, chances are you're closer than you think. And if not, that's okay too. Sometimes a little more planning is all it takes to make your dream pool possible.

What kind of pool should you choose?

How you want to use it?

Just the two of you and a glass of wine on the weekend? A plunge pool might be perfect. Kids with boundless energy? Go bigger with room to move. Training for your next triathlon? Lap pool all the way.

Above-ground vs. in-ground?

Above-ground pools are budget-friendly and quick to install. In-ground pools offer more durability and design flexibility.

Material: Fibreglass or concrete?

Concrete pools offer more flexibility in design, allowing for custom shapes, sizes, and finishes to suit any backyard vision. Fibreglass pools, while less customisable, are quicker to install, easier to maintain, and often more cost-effective over the long run. If you want creative freedom, concrete might be your pick - but if you’re after speed, simplicity, and lasting value, fibreglass is hard to beat.

At Summertime Pools, we use fibreglass exclusively. Why? A fibreglass pool is a modern, luxury product that's fast to install, low-maintenance, and built to last. That means fewer headaches, while still getting the benefits of spectacular designs with built-in features.

Let’s talk money.

Pools are a big investment. But they don’t have to blow your budget. Start by nailing down the big three:

Your ideal pool type.
Your available space.
Your comfortable budget range.

Once you know where these intersect, you’re in a great place to move forward.

How long does it take?

Pool installations (especially concrete pool builds) can drag on for months. Ours don’t. Most families are swimming within 12 weeks from fixed-price quote. Our process is smooth, fast, and crystal clear from start to splash.