Answers

A concrete pool can be a better option as it reflects back the stylish arrangement of the pool. It seems to be really trendy which most of the people are preferring to build in their new home. Moreover, buying the stylish set of a sofa which can be kept outside near the pool is another option you can choose to go with as it will add extra beauty to your backyard. A number of people are heading towards the genuine store like office furniture solutions in order to get the fair deals in buying furniture. If you want, you can also go this way and can give a new look to your backyard this time.

I do not work on pools, but used to have an in ground with vinyl liner in my home.  The first thing that came to mind when I started reading your post was switch to salt water.  Then I read that you mentioned that!  I don't know all the benefits why you should, but I thought the largest were that they are easier to maintain and don't require as much chemical as a chlorinated pool.  Some people I know say that they are much more enjoyable to swim in as well.  

Great questions. Answer will depend on your overall renovation budget and projected use of the pool.

You may wish to track your use and cost (maintanence, electric, water, personal hours cleaning, chemicals)  for one year to help assist you with a renovation option.

Galloway Roofing & Siding does not work on Pools.

I know i am late but for future people reading through this should also consider automatic pool covers if you are looking for all year round safety.  The safety covers mentioned above are more for winterization or covering your pool during a time you dont want to use it.  They take time to install and are not an in season friendly option.  

automatic safety covers like coverpools are a key switch operated safety cover that covers and uncovers the pool in a matter of seconds.  When installed by a professionaly trained installed they can easily hold the weight of multiple adults and children.

Start by doing some research for your local area.

What type of pools work best for your ground condition; Gunite, Fiberglass, Vinyl Liner, Above Ground, etc?

If it is gunite, what style do you want; Freeform, Geometric, Lagoon, Modern?

Do you want a spa?  Do you want a waterfall?  Do you want to heat your pool?

What materials catch your eye?

Create a portfolio of pictures of pools that you like, this will help the designer really understand waht you are looking for.

Check out the companies that you call.

How long have then been in business?

Are they members of BBB?  Rating?

Do they have an office or do they work out of their house/truck?

DO they have insurance?!?

In the Houston Metro Area our customers expierience an annual cost of about 1,500-2,000,  this includes electrical, gas, and chemicals.  

These numbers represent an average sized pool, average spa usage, and properly maintained pool chemistry.

There are so many variables that will affect the overall costs of maintenance, chemicals, etc.  For starters, where you live makes a difference in how many months of the year that the pool will be operational and energy costs will vary from region to region.  

Another factor to consider is if you will rely on a pool services company to open and close your pool annually or if you will be doing some of these services on your own.  The cost to open and close a pool is determined by the size of the pool.  In addition, many companies (including ours) offer discounts on pool chemicals if purchased in February, March, or April.  This can save customers a lot of money.  

In general, figure your annual costs could range from $500 to $4,000 depending on what services, i.e., openings/closings, weekly maintenance, repair, chemicals, etc. that will be used compared to how much you plan on doing yourself.

Your pool builder should be able to give you a fairly accurate assessment when you get to the final design stage.

I work with a lot of pool guys and also have a pool   On an anual contract you should expect to pay 2500-3500 to open, close and maintain your pool for the year. 

You should decide if you want above ground or in-ground.  If you decide to go with in-ground, you should do some research on vinyl liner compared with concrete.  :-)  Good Luck!

Loop Loc is a great product for safety fencing around pool areas. 

Safety Covers are the best swimming pool covers. Insurance rated. They will protect Children, Pets, Adults and make for an easy spring cleanup. www.atlantapoolsafetycovers.com

Start by deciding if you'd like to have an above ground pool or below ground pool. There's gotta be a significant cost factor there I'd think.