I'm being transferred to another city and one of the houses on my short list for location just happens to have a little in-ground concrete pool in the back yard. Something like a Fastlane would have to be installed in it to make it a true swimming pool. This being the Great White North, it probably would be usable from late May to mid-September only, unless I put a building over it.
How much work and expense is involved in operating a backyard pool? Is it worth the trouble? I'm assuming it's usable as the MLS photos showed it full of water.
Former Member
I live in Erie,Pa. Our winters are long,I have had a pool since 2002. I use it from end of May to middle of September. I have 2 skimmers,wall and bottom which really cuts down on maintaince. I also have a system(chlorine) which I add packs monthly. Once I get my chemical right beginning of the season,I set a dial and it is fool proof. Yes closing/openning does cost a fair amount,usually around $100. However the best is to come home from work jump in the pool do laps while dinner cooks on the grill. I live in my pool all summer. Downside is every person you every knew,drops by to swim. Set limits the first year. I can't image being without a pool,my drive to my YMCA is about 30 min.
In the north, it's not really worth the hassle more than likely. In the south, you can leave it filled all year long and it's great.
Plus, odds are you'll inherit a problematic pool. I wouldn't mess with it, if you can help it. You won't get much resembling training done in it.
