Building a pool and spa in your backyard can be a great way to relax, have fun, and enjoy time with family and friends. But Pool & Spa Construction is a big job that needs careful planning and the right team. If things go wrong, you could face delays, spend more money than expected, or end up with results you’re not happy with.
To help you avoid these issues, here are some of the most common mistakes people make during Pool & Spa Construction—and how to steer clear of them.
1. Not Planning Properly
One of the biggest mistakes is jumping into construction without a good plan. Many people are excited to start but don’t think everything through first.
What Can Go Wrong:
- No clear layout or design
- Wrong size or shape for your space
- Forgetting how the pool fits in with the rest of the yard
What You Should Do:
- Work with a designer or contractor to plan everything
- Use 3D drawings to see how it will look
- Think about maintenance and how easy it is to reach parts of the pool
- Make sure your plans follow local building rules
2. Putting the Pool in the Wrong Spot
The location of your pool is super important. A bad location can cause problems with sun, privacy, drainage, and more.
Mistakes to Avoid:
- Building too close to fences or property lines
- Placing it under trees that drop leaves
- Not thinking about wind or water flow
What to Do Instead:
- Choose a spot with enough sunlight
- Avoid areas under big trees
- Talk to an expert about the best place for it in your yard
3. Underestimating the Cost
Another common mistake is not setting the right budget. Some people forget about extra costs that come up during Pool & Spa Construction.
What Goes Wrong:
- Forgetting about permits, electricity, and landscaping
- Picking the cheapest builder without checking their quality
- Not planning for long-term costs like cleaning and heating
How to Plan Better:
- Get quotes from different trusted contractors
- Add extra money (10–15%) to your budget for surprise costs
- Ask for a detailed list of what’s included
4. Skipping Permits and Rules
You can’t just build a pool without the right approvals. Ignoring local rules can stop your project or cost you fines.
Mistakes to Avoid:
- Building without proper permits
- Not checking zoning laws or building lines
- Forgetting required safety features like fencing
What to Do:
- Learn your local laws
- Work with a contractor who knows how to get permits
- Plan for safety features from the start
5. Hiring the Wrong Contractor
The quality of your pool depends on who builds it. Choosing the wrong contractor can lead to poor results and wasted money.
What Goes Wrong:
- Choosing the cheapest builder without checking their work
- Not asking for references or proof of license
- No clear contract or timeline
How to Avoid This:
- Hire experienced, licensed, and insured professionals
- Read reviews and ask to see past work
- Get everything in writing, including the cost and schedule
6. Ignoring Drainage
Good drainage keeps water from damaging your pool or yard. Poor drainage can cause big issues later on.
Mistakes to Watch For:
- Not thinking about where water will flow
- Allowing water to pool near the foundation or decking
- Forgetting about heavy rain
What You Can Do:
- Add proper drainage systems
- Use experts who understand how to shape the land
- Check drainage regularly during construction
7. Adding Too Many Features
It’s tempting to add every feature you see in magazines—waterfalls, lighting, bars—but too much can be a problem.
What Can Go Wrong:
- Going over your budget
- Complicated designs that take longer to build
- High maintenance
What to Do Instead:
- Focus on features you’ll actually use
- Keep your design simple and practical
- Leave room for upgrades in the future
8. Poor Spa Design
Adding a spa is a great idea, but if it’s not designed properly, it might not work well or look right.
Mistakes to Avoid:
- Designing the spa as a separate add-on
- Using materials that don’t match the pool
- Not linking the spa and pool systems
Tips to Fix This:
- Design the pool and spa together
- Match the style and materials
- Combine systems to save energy and money
9. Forgetting About Maintenance
A pool that looks good but is hard to take care of can become a headache fast.
What Goes Wrong:
- Complicated filters or systems you don’t understand
- Choosing materials that are hard to clean
- No automatic systems
How to Make It Easier:
- Pick easy-to-maintain surfaces
- Invest in automatic cleaners and timers
- Learn basic pool care or hire a service
10. No Landscaping Plan
Landscaping brings everything together and makes your pool area complete.
Common Mistakes:
- Waiting to landscape until after construction
- Choosing plants that make a mess
- Forgetting about lighting or walkways
Smart Landscaping Tips:
- Include landscaping in your early design
- Choose low-maintenance plants
- Add lights, paths, and places to sit
11. Ignoring Energy Costs
Pools use a lot of energy if you’re not careful. Outdated systems can raise your bills.
Mistakes to Avoid:
- Using old pumps or heaters
- Skipping insulation for your spa
- Running systems more than needed
What to Do:
- Choose energy-saving equipment
- Use solar heating or efficient pumps
- Add timers and automation tools
12. Not Doing a Final Check
Some people skip the final inspection, thinking everything looks fine. But hidden problems can show up later.
Common Mistakes:
- Not testing pumps, heaters, and lights
- Skipping safety checks
- Forgetting to collect manuals and warranties
How to Handle It:
- Do a full walk-through with your builder
- Test all systems
- Make sure you understand how everything works
13. Poor Communication with Your Contractor
Good communication keeps everything on track. Misunderstandings can lead to delays or mistakes.
Things That Go Wrong:
- Not asking enough questions
- Assuming the contractor understands everything
- Not staying updated on progress
What You Should Do:
- Talk often with your builder
- Put changes and decisions in writing
- Visit the site during key parts of the project
14. Not Thinking About the Future
Your pool should work for you now and in the years to come. It should also add value to your home.
Mistakes to Watch For:
- A pool that’s too small or deep
- Unusual shapes or colors that might not appeal to others
- No features for kids, older adults, or future changes
Smart Planning Tips:
- Choose a simple, flexible design
- Use classic styles and neutral colors
- Think about how your needs might change
Final Thoughts
Pool & Spa Construction is a great way to improve your backyard and enjoy more time outside. But it’s important to avoid common mistakes that could turn your dream into a stressful experience. By planning ahead, hiring the right professionals, and staying involved in the process, you can enjoy a smooth, stress-free construction journey.
If you’re ready to get started, trust the experts at Epic Watershapes. Their experienced team creates custom pool and spa designs that are beautiful, functional, and built to last. Visit their website today to learn more and bring your vision to life the right way!
