With its mountains, warm climate and numerous state parks, Utah offers plenty of opportunities to get outside and enjoy the splendor of nature. But why go to all the trouble of traveling somewhere when you can enjoy a little splendor of your very own right in your backyard? Like other states in the southwest, Utah is a great place to own an inground swimming pool.
Swimming Season
Utah is known for winter recreation – we’re talking mostly about skiing here – but the summers are also long and hot. In Salt Lake City and Provo, the temperature crosses 90 degrees over 50 times per year, on average. While the dry heat isn’t so uncomfortable that a backyard swimming pool is an absolute necessity, it certainly makes it an attractive option.
Most parts of Utah also receive relatively little rainfall. Put it all together, and you have a climate where you’re likely to get ample use out of a swimming pool.
Extras
Utah is one of the top states for solar energy. Swimming pools offer some of the most effective uses of solar energy. Sounds like a match, no? While a solar heater doesn’t heat water as well as an electric or gas unit, it’s enough to raise the temperature a few degrees – perhaps enough to open your pool a week or two earlier in the spring and keep it open longer into the fall. During the summer, it could also allow you to use the pool earlier in the day and later at night. In other words, it can help you get a lot more mileage out of your pool.
If a solar pool heater isn’t for you, a simple solar cover (aka solar blanket) is another option. These covers prevent evaporation while allowing the sun’s rays to pass through – both of which serve to keep the water warm without costing you anything beyond the initial investment.
Installation Costs
Construction labor costs are below the national average in Utah, so you might expect to pay less for pool installation than in other places. This is especially true for gunite (concrete) pools, which require a lot of man-hours to complete. Self-installation is an option for those who want to save money, but with professional installation being relatively affordable, you might want to think twice before tackling such a complex project on your own.
Permits
As in other states, building permits are issued at the municipal or county level. Here’s where hiring a pool company that’s established in the area can really pay off. They can help guide you through the process, or even take it over for you. If you’re attempting self-installation, you’ll need to contact your local government and make sure you have all required permit applications submitted on time.
Safety Laws
Residential pool safety laws in Utah are also handled by municipal and county governments. Again, do your homework before beginning any pool project. In most places, the law requires you to have a fence surrounding your pool that meets certain height and other requirements. Other regulations enacted to prevent accidental drownings may also be in place where you live.
