A backyard swimming pool can transform a home into a summer destination. Before the first shovel breaks ground, homeowners face a long list of decisions — and a few surprises along the way.

Bob and Gina Goodlin own Goodlin Pools and Spas, a pool building and service company in Jefferson Township. They say the most important thing to understand from the start is that no two pool projects are alike.

“Every backyard is different,” said Bob Goodlin. “A pool is not a ‘one-size-fits-all’ project. Lot size, grading, drainage, access to the backyard, utilities and township regulations all play a huge role in what’s possible.”

Budget planning should extend well beyond the pool itself. Homeowners should account for concrete, fencing, lighting, heaters and automatic covers, among other finishing elements.

“Sometimes the biggest surprise is realizing the backyard determines the project more than Pinterest does,” Gina Goodlin said.

The Goodlins say most projects begin with a phone call to discuss the homeowner’s vision, budget and timeline, followed by an in-home consultation to assess the yard.

“We measure the space, talk about options and help guide them toward a pool design that fits both the property and the family,” Bob Goodlin said.

A residential in-ground pool build can range from a couple of weeks to several months, depending on township approvals, backyard access and project complexity. Weather remains the biggest unpredictable factor.

“Communication is key,” Gina Goodlin said. “Building a pool is a major investment, and we find homeowners appreciate knowing what stage they’re in and what comes next.”

Pool shoppers will encounter three main options for in-ground construction: vinyl liner, fiberglass and concrete. Above-ground pools are also available and tend to be more affordable and quicker to install.

Vinyl liner pools are the most customizable and are the specialty at Goodlin Pools. Fiberglas pools install quickly but are limited to premanufactured shapes and sizes. Concrete pools offer the most design flexibility but carry a higher price tag.

“We spend a lot of time helping customers determine what works best for their family, not just what’s trending,” Bob Goodlin said. “A pool should match how you plan to use it, whether that’s entertaining, relaxing, swimming laps or making memories with kids and grandkids.”

Pool pricing varies based on size, materials, site access and features. Factors that drive costs up include retaining walls, grading needs, heating systems, automatic covers and outdoor living additions.

One expense many first-time buyers overlook is site work. Yards with steep slopes, poor drainage, rock excavation or limited equipment access can add significantly to the final bill.

“We try to educate customers up front so they understand the full scope of the project before construction begins,” Gina Goodlin said.

Ongoing ownership costs also deserve attention. Water chemistry, utilities, winterization and routine maintenance are expenses homeowners will face year after year.

Pool projects require permits, inspections, setbacks, fencing and utility coordination, and requirements vary based on municipality.

“We help guide customers through that process because many homeowners have never dealt with zoning offices or permit applications before,” Bob Goodlin said. “We work with local municipalities to help keep projects moving smoothly.”

Safety is a priority that should not be underestimated. Fencing with self-latching gates, pool alarms, door alarms and automatic covers are all highly recommended, particularly for households with young children or pets.

“We always remind homeowners that no safety product replaces supervision,” Gina Goodlin said.

Pools also carry significant insurance implications. Jason West, an Erie Insurance agent in Butler, said most companies charge extra for homes with pools and require in-ground pools to be surrounded by a fence with locked gates.

“Certain automatic pool covers that are hard enough to withstand a person walking on them are acceptable in place of fences,” West said.

Pools are classified as an attractive nuisance under the law, meaning property owners can be held liable for injuries to children, even trespassers. West said homeowners involved in lawsuits must show they took all reasonable steps to prevent unauthorized access to the pool. Above-ground pools require the access ladder to be locked in an upright position or removed when not in use.

Routine pool maintenance has gotten easier in recent years thanks to advances in automation and equipment. Weekly tasks typically include testing and balancing water chemistry, emptying skimmer baskets and vacuuming as needed.

“One of the biggest mistakes is neglecting water chemistry, especially pH and sanitizer levels,” Bob Goodlin said. “Improper chemistry can damage liners, heaters, salt systems and other equipment over time.”

Technology upgrades have also made ownership more manageable. Automation systems, LED lighting, smartphone controls and saltwater systems are now widely available. Automatic covers have become especially popular, improving safety, reducing evaporation and retaining heat.

“Overall, huge energy savings,” Gina Goodlin said.