Investing in a swimming pool is a significant and exciting decision, and ensuring the installation process runs smoothly requires planning. While the type of pool and other inclusions are important details, when to install your pool is one of the most pertinent considerations. The question is, when is the right time?
Weather, budget, crew availability, and personal events or occasions you'd like to have the pool ready for will all play a role in the timing of your swimming pool project. By planning out the installation process in advance, you can ensure that your investment will be successful–the first step is choosing the right time of year to install your pool.
With our advice, it won't be long before you start enjoying your new backyard addition.
Which is Best, Spring or Autumn?
Spring and autumn offer moderate temperatures and are considered the most favourable seasons for pool installation, making excavating and preparing the site for your pool easier. The temperature is usually more stable during these seasons, reducing the risk of weather-related delays and enhancing the final product's quality.
Installing during the autumn will enable you to enjoy your pool the following spring and summer, while a spring installation will prepare your pool for summer. Most people typically wish to have a pool when it's warm outside, making summertime a popular installation time; however, finding a team of contractors with calendar availability to do the job can be challenging and often more costly.
Besides, installing during the summer would mean your backyard would be unavailable for prime backyard BBQ days!
Key Factors to Consider
Type of Pool
Different types of swimming pools come with varying timelines of installation. For instance, a fibreglass pool can be installed in a few days, but constructing a concrete pool can take several weeks to months. Other factors such as above-ground or in-ground, decking, fencing, landscaping, and filter type affect the installation needs and total timeframe.
Do It Yourself (DIY) or Fully Installed
With the availability of modular pool kits, you may consider installing a pool yourself. If DIY isn't your thing, or you want a long-lasting and high-quality pool, hiring an independent installer is also an option. Both will affect the installation timeline and the overall cost differently, but if you opt for self-installation, be sure to factor in your free time.
If you find yourself somewhere in the middle, you’ll find that our swimming pool kits offer a sweet spot for the natural-born project manager. With your kit, you receive your pool and the filtration equipment you need for your swimming pool installation, but you have the flexibility to source the trades of your choosing—cutting out the middle-man and saving you money.
Suppose you opt to handle the installation yourself. In that case, you’ll also want to check all self-managed installation requirements, as they vary by state but may include an owner-builder permit, a white card, and varying building approvals and mandates such as pool fencing. You’ll need to hire a crane company and excavators, and—if you aren't one yourself—we recommend you hire plumbing and electrical professionals for the installation.
If you are unsure about your DIY abilities or do not have the time and resources to manage the job, consider hiring a professional to handle the entire project on your behalf.
Once you decide how to install your pool, you will have an accurate idea of how long the project will take, helping you choose the right time of year to start.
Availability of Installation Crew
Inclement weather, such as excessive heat, can result in installation crews being required to pause projects or miss working days, resulting in a blown-out timeline.
Many businesses close throughout December and January or may have limited trades available due to the popularity of people taking time off over the holiday season and school holidays. This, combined with the popularity of summer for pool installations, means qualified contractors may have limited availability and even invoke peak-season pricing.
Australia's moderate spring and autumn temperatures make construction work more manageable and comfortable, reducing the risk of timeline delays.
Budget
If you want to save money, installing a pool during the off-season is likely a significant factor. Prices are generally lower during this period, giving you more value for your money.
With fewer customers looking for installation during this time, you may find a contractor willing to offer you a deal.
Personal Schedule
Whether you opt for DIY or full installation, you will need to be available throughout the project. Consider how much time you have to dedicate to the installation process. It is advised to choose a time of year when you have fewer commitments and more free time.
Additionally, If you plan to host an event in your newly installed pool, you'll want to plan ahead (with flexibility for unexpected delays!) to ensure the installation is complete in time.
Convenience
Consider how you typically use your outdoor space when planning for your swimming pool installation. The process can be disruptive with installation crews and tools in your yard. It's wise to schedule installation for a time when you use this area the least.
Doing so will reduce the disruption to your usual outdoor activities. No backyard summer BBQs missed!
Permits and Regulations
Make sure to research and comply with any permits and regulations that may impact the installation of your pool, such as submitting a development application through your council.
Different areas have different requirements, so it's essential to understand what your state and local council requires before scheduling your installation. Doing so will help ensure your project proceeds smoothly without surprises or unexpected delays.
Conclusion
The preferred time of year–for both cost and quality–to install a swimming pool is spring or autumn, with more stable weather conditions and milder temperatures. However, it's essential to consider other factors, such as planned events or your budget, when determining the right time of year to schedule your swimming pool installation.
Swimming Pool Kits Direct can help you find the right pool for your needs and even assist you in finding a local installer if needed.
Fill in this form, and we'll help you pick the fibreglass pool of your dreams.
