Like other states in the deep south, Georgia is a great place to own a swimming pool. Inground pools provide many residents of the Peach State with a respite from the intense heat of summer, and can often be enjoyed throughout the fall.
Swimming Season
You should be able to use an inground pool about half the year in Georgia, depending of course on what you think of as a suitable temperature for swimming. In Atlanta, for example, high temperatures are generally in the 70s from April to October. On the downside, the humidity offers fertile conditions for algae, which may be why so many Georgians opt for algae-resistant fiberglass pools.
Extras
Consider some creative landscaping to make your inground swimming pool not just recreational, but decorative. In the hottest days of summer, you’ll want to be in your pool. For the many warm days that surround it, the pool can serve as a luxurious backdrop for other outdoor activities.
Installation Costs
All things being equal, the cost of installing an inground pool in Georgia is around the national average. However, as we are fond of pointing out, there are a lot of different variables beyond geography that determine the final price tag. With construction labor costs being reasonable in the state, we recommend hiring a professional pool contractor to handle the job. However, if you want to save money – and you’re up to the task – you can save a lot of money by doing at least some of the work yourself.
Permits
Swimming pool permits are issued by the city or county in which you live. The process varies by location, and may be more complicated in urban areas like Augusta. Fortunately, larger cities are often served by pool companies that know the system – a key advantage of hiring a professional.
Safety Laws
As with permits, pool safety laws are a local matter and can differ by area. Most cities in the U.S. have adopted uniform standards for pool fences, which must be at least four feet tall, along with various other specifications. However, your local government may have laws that are more or less strict. This is important information to find out early in your planning, as it can play a major role in determining what features you need – and the final cost of the project.
