Indiana has a lot to offer in the summertime, from the natural pleasures of its many lakes and parks, to the entertainments found in Indianapolis and other urban centers. But that doesn’t stop many residents from introducing a little extra fun right in their backyards with the help of inground pools.
Swimming Season
There’s a lot of climate variation in Indiana, especially between the northern and southern extremes. But overall, the state has a swimming season of average length. The great majority of swim-able days are between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Whether you can get more use out of your swimming pool depends on your tolerance for cold and/or your willingness to pay for water heating.
Extras
A pool heater is one investment that will pay off in additional swimming time, as it extends the number of days you can comfortably use a pool in Indiana. For a luxury option, consider a connected spa that you can use even when the days start to get cold. And provided you have room in your budget, you may even want to consider a full enclosure to keep your pool open all the time – rain or shine, warm or cold.
Installation Costs
Construction is a little more expensive in Indiana than the national average, though the price can vary significantly from town to town. In general, expect to pay a little more for pool installation than people in other states, especially if you’re building a gunite pool that requires weeks or months of work. An increasing number of people in Indiana are choosing fiberglass pools because of the comparatively quick and easy installation.
Permits
Swimming pool permits are handled at the local level. Typically, you have to submit a permit application with a one-time fee. In the case of swimming pools, however, there may be additional permits and fees required. The only way to find out for sure is to check with whatever office handles building permits in your area. If you select a licensed pool company to do the work for you, they should be able to help.
Safety Laws
Pool safety laws are left to local municipalities, but most of them require a pool fence to prevent accidental drownings. Some cities may also require a bar or other handhold at the edge of the pool to give anyone who inadvertently falls in something to grab onto. Again, it’s best to check your local laws as early as possible in the planning process to make sure your pool meets all the requirements.
