If you have decided to have a pool built on your property, here are some important factors you should take into consideration when deciding what size this structure should be:

The primary purpose of the pool

Before your pool builders start to draw up the plans for the pool, you will need to think about what it's primary purpose will be, as this will play a determining role in the size of pool you end up building.

For example, if you or other members of your household swim competitively and need to use the pool for training purposes, then it would be a good idea to opt for a generously-sized rectangular pool, so that you and your family can easily swim relatively long distances, in a straight line, without having to do an excessive amount of turns.

Conversely, if you have children and will mostly be using the pool for paddling and playing games, or if you intend to simply lounge in the water on an inflatable chair, then a smaller pool would be perfectly adequate.

How much maintenance work you are willing to do

All pools need to be cleaned on a regular basis, regardless of their size. However, cleaning a large pool can take a lot longer than cleaning a modestly-sized one.

For example, at least once a week, you will need to use a net to remove any debris that has fallen into the water (such as leaves, twigs and stones).

If your pool is just 10 metres long, this task could be completed in about 20 minutes. If it is more than 40 metres long, it could take closer to two hours to complete this process.

As such, you should only opt for a large-sized swimming pool if you have the time and the energy to keep it clean or if you can afford to hire a professional pool cleaner to carry out this task on your behalf.

The size of your home

It is important to ensure that the swimming pool your contractor builds blends in well with the size and general style of your home. If it does not, it could have a negative impact on the overall value of your property.

For example, if you live in a compact, single-storey cottage, it would not be a good idea to install a 25-metre pool in the back garden, even if there is enough space for it. A large pool would visually overwhelm the exterior of the property and look completely out of place.

Similarly, if you own a very spacious property, then a tiny or mid-sized pool would not be in proportion to the rest of your home. In this situation, a large, long pool might be a better choice.