Sydney is known for its stunning beaches, but there’s something even better on offer for swimming lovers: a pool. Pools are the ideal way to enjoy our gorgeous summer weather without having to leave your home; they’re great for socialising or simply relaxing with a book or some music. However, it’s important to take into account all of the associated costs before you purchase or build a pool. Doing so could save you money in the long run and prevent unpleasant surprises down the line.
Sydney pools are a testament to the city’s reputation as Australia’s “Sandstone City”. The southern two-thirds of NSW’s coast is toothed with headlands that spike into the Pacific Ocean, hammered by winter storm swells and summer cyclone swells. Fortunately, most of these headlands are made from sandstone, which is the perfect material for ocean pools: it’s easy to dig, yet stable on human time scales. Ocean pools are often built on the beach – allowing swimmers to enjoy the view while taking a dip.
These pools also have the added benefit of creating a safer environment for people to swim in. They’re also ideal for families who want to spend more time outdoors together without having to worry about dangerous surf conditions or getting too chilly. However, it’s important to understand that swimming pools require regular maintenance and care in order to remain safe for swimmers.
Regardless of the location, all Sydney pools must be fenced and maintained in accordance with Australian Standard AS1926.1-2012. Fences should be at least 1.2 meters high and must include a self-closing gate. Additionally, all pool owners must have their pools registered in NSW and have an up-to-date pool barrier certificate. This is a legal requirement, so it’s important to choose a pool builder who can demonstrate their compliance with these regulations.
If you’re thinking of installing a swimming pool in your backyard, it’s important to research local building laws and speak with your council before beginning any work. You should also check whether any essential cables, like power lines, run underneath the area where you plan to place your pool. If they do, you’ll need to obtain a permit before starting construction and request that your pool builder informs you of any potential issues.
Clover Moore, Sydney’s Lord Mayor, has proposed turning part of the city’s harbor into a public swimming pool in an effort to attract tourists and aid in conservation efforts. The idea hasn’t yet been finalized, but if successful it could be the first of its kind in the world. However, before you begin construction on your own backyard pool, it’s important to contact a reputable Sydney pool builder for a quote and to ensure that they’re covered by a warranty that covers all aspects of the installation process. This includes all building, labour and maintenance fees for the duration of the warranty. Make sure to ask about any additional services that may be included in your quote as well.