This is a question we hear more and more often these days. It’s easy to understand why. Many homeowners, either because they are unsure of what they want long-term or because they are trying to budget home upgrades in stages, eventually think of adding a pool to their existing patio design.
The question becomes more pertinent when the existing patio has only recently been installed. Sometimes it makes sense to put in a new fiberglass pool, but only if the walkways, retaining walls, pergolas, or outdoor kitchens that are already in place can be preserved.
So, can it be done? As you might imagine, there are a few caveats that come to mind when finding an answer. Here’s what I would tell you, based on my 20+ years as a leading landscaping contractor and fiberglass pool installer in Saugus, Massachusetts.
The Short Answer You Are Probably Looking for
I don’t like to give quick, nonspecific answers to complex questions, but I know that’s what most readers will be looking for. So here is the bottom line: it’s usually possible to renovate an existing patio by adding a fiberglass pool. It’s not always the best idea, but I would say it’s at least realistic to consider.
Sometimes, installing a fiberglass pool is as simple as working around what’s already in a back yard. You might have enough clearance from a pergola or retaining wall, for instance, to just insert a pool and deck. Or, you might be able to move, or take away, a specific feature to make space for the pool.
Before you make assumptions, though, I would highly recommend having a professional visit your home to take a look. That’s because there are a lot of little considerations that might not seem apparent at first glance. Someone who does a lot of fiberglass pool installations will know what to look for and can help steer you in the right direction.
The One Important Question for Fiberglass Pool Installation
It’s not usually a question of whether you can make space in a property for a fiberglass pool, but instead whether we can actually move one into your backyard in the first place. In other words, it’s not just the footprint of the pool, but everything that goes around it and all the pieces needed to install it.
To think about the difference, it’s important to remember that fiberglass pools arrive fully manufactured. They show up in one piece and are often put into place using a crane after we’ve had excavating equipment on the grounds. That equipment can take up a lot more space than the pool itself.
In addition, all of that equipment has to be moved through, around, or over things like fences, trees, utility lines, and other structures that exist on the property. This can be enough of a challenge before any pieces of a patio are in place, which is why we often install fiberglass pools first and then add different pieces around them.
However, even with this dash of practicality thrown in, it’s worth repeating that there is almost always a way to make things work while keeping existing patio elements (at least mostly) in place. But it’s one of those areas where a little bit of experience in planning goes a long way.
Finding the Right Plan for Your Patio
As you are probably starting to understand, placing a fiberglass pool into an existing patio is often less a question of “can you?” and more a question of “should you?” That’s when things start to be a little less clear.
If you have plenty of space available, your existing patio is in good condition, and there is good access to your property then there isn’t any reason to break apart what’s already there. You might need to make a few alterations, but it might make sense to keep the space mostly intact. That’s a good way to save time and money, and to cause the least amount of disruption to your property and lifestyle.
On the other hand, it sometimes makes sense to just begin from scratch. A fiberglass pool is typically the centerpiece of a patio, so you might want the other elements (like a deck or an outdoor kitchen) to flow around it. In addition, you could see your pool installation as a chance to upgrade the overall design, with new pavers, lighting, seating, and so on. It might also make it easier to incorporate drainage, retaining walls, and other technical elements.
In the end, what really matters is how you plan to use your outdoor space. If everything works together in a way that feels intentional and makes your backyard a good spot for relaxing and entertaining, then you have gotten what you need. That’s true if you do everything all at once or in lots of little stages.
The tough part is that it can be difficult to make these assessments without the experience of having done dozens of these projects in the past. So, as always, I would advise you to get expert help throughout the planning and patio renovation process.
How to Make the Right Plan for Your Patio
Whether you’re starting fresh, renovating an existing patio design, or just thinking about tearing everything down and starting over, the key is to get advice you can trust. That means an experienced contracting team who will not only answer your questions but put your needs first.
That’s where our experienced patio design consultants come in. If you are located in or around the Saugus, Massachusetts area, then I would encourage you to contact Stefano’s Landscaping today. It only takes a few minutes to arrange a free consultation at your home. You’ll get the chance to ask anything you want to know, and to get our best advice, without any obligation.
During your consultation we’ll offer ideas and choices. Then you decide whether you want to move ahead at some point in the future. Why not get in touch now so you can get the expert insights you need?