Have you ever dreamed of having your own custom pool? A pool that is perfect for your backyard, your family, and your style? In St. Louis, custom pools are becoming more popular every year. People want a space to relax, play, and create memories.
But how do you design a custom pool in St. Louis? Where do you start? In this guide, you will learn simple steps to create your dream pool without stress.
Know Why You Want a Custom Pool
First, ask yourself why you want Custom Pools St. Louis services. Is it for family fun? Fitness? Hosting friends? Or just to relax after work? When you know your reason, your design will be easier. For example, if you want to swim laps, a long rectangular pool works best. If you want a place for kids to play, you need shallow areas and safety features. Write down your top three reasons for building a pool. Share them with your Custom Pools St. Louis designer later.
Set Your Budget Early
Money is always a big part of any project. Before you start looking at designs, set a clear budget.
Custom pools in St. Louis can cost anywhere from $50,000 to over $150,000. It depends on size, materials, features, and landscaping. Talk to pool companies about what is realistic for your budget.
Remember, extra features like waterfalls, lighting, or heating will increase costs. Always add a small buffer in your budget for surprises.
Choose the Best Location
Where will your pool go in your backyard? Think about:
Sunlight: Does the spot get good sun?
Shade: Is there enough shade to relax?
Trees: Will leaves fall into the pool often?
Privacy: Will neighbors see you swimming?
Your pool builder can visit your home and help you choose the best spot. Good placement saves money on heating, cleaning, and maintenance.
Decide the Pool Shape and Size
Now comes the fun part – design!
Popular shapes for custom pools in St. Louis include:
Rectangle: Clean, classic, good for laps.
Freeform: Natural curves, great for landscaping.
L-shape: Adds a shallow area for kids.
Kidney shape: Soft, elegant curves.
Think about how much yard space you want to keep for other activities. A big pool is great, but you also need space for sitting, BBQ, and kids to run around.
Pick the Right Materials
Pool materials affect how your pool looks and feels. The main choices are:
Concrete: Strong and durable. Fully customizable in shape and depth.
Vinyl liner: Cheaper upfront. Limited shapes but smooth surface.
Fiberglass: Fast installation. Smooth and easy to clean but limited in design.
Talk to your pool builder about what works best for your soil, climate, and design goals.
Add Beautiful Features
Custom pools in St. Louis often include extra features to make them special. Here are popular ideas:
Waterfalls: Add a calm sound and beauty.
LED lights: Change colors for night swimming.
Tanning ledges: Shallow spots for relaxing in the water.
Spas: Combine hot tub features with your pool.
Fire pits: Create a stunning evening vibe.
These features make your backyard feel like a resort.
Think About Safety
Safety is important for any pool owner. Especially if you have kids or pets.
Consider adding:
Fencing around your pool.
Pool covers when not in use.
Alarms for gates and pool access.
Non-slip surfaces around the pool.
These keep everyone safe and give you peace of mind.
Work With a Trusted Pool Builder
Finally, choose a builder with a strong reputation. Search for “Custom Pools St. Louis” and read reviews. Ask to see past projects. A good builder will:
Listen to your ideas.
Give clear quotes.
Share design options.
Finish work on time.
Always get contracts in writing and check their insurance and licensing.
Prepare for Construction
Once your design is ready, it’s time to build.
Your builder will:
Dig the area.
Install plumbing and wiring.
Build the pool shell.
Add tiles, finishes, and features.
Fill the pool and check systems.
This process can take 8-12 weeks depending on the weather and your design. Be patient. The end result will be worth it.
Maintain Your Pool
After building your custom pool, keep it clean and safe. Follow these tips:
Check water chemistry weekly.
Clean filters and skimmers regularly.
Run pumps as recommended.
Close your pool properly before winter.
Ask your builder for a maintenance guide specific to your pool type.
FAQs About Custom Pools St. Louis
Q. How long does it take to build a custom pool in St. Louis?
A: Most custom pools take 8-12 weeks. Weather, permits, and design complexity affect timing.
Q. What is the average cost of a custom pool in St. Louis?
A: It ranges from $50,000 to over $150,000 depending on size, materials, and features.
Q. Can I build a pool in a small backyard?
A: Yes. Pool builders can design small plunge pools or creative shapes to fit your space.
Q. Do I need a permit to build a pool in St. Louis?
A: Yes. Your builder usually handles permits, but always confirm with your city before starting.
Q. How do I choose between concrete, fiberglass, and vinyl?
A: Concrete offers full customization. Fiberglass installs faster. Vinyl costs less upfront but may need liner replacement every 7-10 years.