Many people ask whether it’s possible to build an outdoor swimming pool first and then enclose it later. This is a fair question, and the answer is easy. Yes, of course, it is possible. OpenAire has added enclosures to pools that were outdoor facilities for years before the owners or managers decided to enclose them.

Having said that, if you intend to enclose the pool from the start, it is worth going ahead with the construction of the enclosure from the start, as this will save you time and money later on. If you have the resources to build the enclosure at the same time that the pool is being built, you should. It is definitely more costly to install the structure after the pool is built. 

However, if you need to go ahead with the construction of the pool but really need to wait to enclose it, it is recommended that you plan in advance and make some preliminary provisions for when the time comes to start work on the building. Here are a couple of tips to keep in mind:

1. Start by ascertaining the size of the structure beforehand. You can then make the necessary measurements and pour the footings for the building at the same time that the pool deck is being laid down. Digging up the ground to add foundations after the fact, will undoubtedly damage your pool if there isn’t sufficient perimeter deck space.
2. Also, pre-plan all the mechanical systems and utilities you will need for the enclosure and the pool and prepare in advance for the water and electricity services required. Note: the mechanical system for an indoor pool is not identical to that for an outdoor pool, so minimizing the upgrade costs by planning ahead is key.
3. Ensure that there is and remains access to the site. When you plan to install a structure after the fact, you need to be aware that trucks, cranes and more will need to access the site. They will be driving over underground piping, patios and landscaping, causing damage if not considered beforehand.

In general, while we don’t recommend it, it is possible to build a pool first and enclose it later. However, the time to install, the site access, the increased cost and the potential for damage do exist, so where possible, planning ahead is critical to save both time and money.

OpenAire strongly believes that swimming pools are a public health service, whether in municipal settings or a hotel. We contribute to the provision of these services through the design and construction of swimming pool enclosures. Contact us for more information.