Summers in Virginia can be hot, especially as you go farther south and east. Many Virginians turn to residential swimming pools to get relief from high temperatures in July and August. Here are some facts on inground pools you may want to consider before taking the plunge yourself.
Swimming Season
Summer weather is not only warm in Virginia, but long. For example, in Richmond and Virginia Beach, high temperatures start to touch the 80s in May and stay at a comfortable level for swimming all the way through September. It’s the same story in much of the rest of the state.
Extras
There are no must-have extras for Virginia. However, since the state does get its share of severe weather, you may want to consider a pool cover to keep debris out. This is particularly useful if you live in one of the state’s heavily wooded areas, as leaves, branches, and other tree parts can be a hassle to clean out of your pool. We recommend an automatic pool cover if you can afford it.
Installation Costs
The cost of an inground pool in Virginia is right around the national average. However, there are many other things that go into determining the price besides region. For example, concrete or gunite pools are much more expensive than vinyl. Fiberglass pools, which are growing in popularity in Virginia and elsewhere, are usually somewhere in between.
Permits
Swimming pool installions are major construction projects, and thus require a building permit from your local city or country. We can’t say what the exact process is in your area, but you can expect to fill out an application that includes details such as where the pool is located, what its dimensions are, and the total value of the pool. Of course, you’ll also have to pay a fee with your application.
Safety Laws
Residential pool safety laws are another thing to consider long before you begin your pool construction project. Again, do some research and find out what your local ordinances say. In most cases, you will need to have a fence surrounding your pool at a minimum. Pool safety laws tend to be more strict in heavily populated areas, so if you live in Richmond or another city in Virginia, pay particular attention to this issue. You want your pool to be safe and legal from the very start.
