So I've taken the plunge..... Im going to follow suit and post all the details of my pool planning process similar to what Bulldogz400 did last year. Since I found his post VERY helpful, I figure others may benefit as well.
Lets start. I have paid a company to complete the drafting of the pool. This will be the second time I have used the company and have nothing but great things to say from my past experience. Cost $850.00 This will include all drawings, plans and contractor list. (Paid)
We are about to finalize the above plans. We want to have an area to play basketball and volleyball along with an area for the kids to jump from. This area is 36 and 1/2 feet long X 13 feet wide. The jumping area of the pool is 17 X 17. We designed a platform area where the kids can jump from in the back.
1) We are trying to decide if we want an in floor cleaning system. We had one in our last pool and loved it. The issue is its going to cost $6,000 (parts +plumbing) and we are trying to keep our costs down. Does anyone have experience with a automatic cleaner and will it work on the benches and sun shelf?
2) Lighting. We want bright colorful lighting. Our last pool had (3) SAM/SAL (whatever that means) lights and probably could have used a fourth light. Anyone have any recommendations on how well the new lights are versus what I bought 10 years ago?
3) Salt vrs Chlorine? We had a salt system in the last pool and I was on the fence if I would do it again. Has the product improved a lot since 2005?
4) Any other ideas anyone has before I finalize the plans?