In a hot climate like Arizona, the value of backyard water features cannot be understated. While most people consider the gold standard to be an in-ground swimming pool, not everyone wants to deal with the maintenance or cost of such a feature. This leads people to turn to other options that will help them and their families cool off in hot weather. In recent years, one option that has grown in popularity is the backyard splash pad.
A big step up from backyard sprinklers, but less of a commitment than a swimming pool, a splash pad is a great water feature to add to your backyard, especially if you have young children and are concerned about the potential drowning hazard of a pool.
So how can you make sure you end up with a splash pad that you and your family will enjoy for years to come? Here are some of our best tips for installing a backyard splash pad.
Plan the space carefully.
Are you sure you have enough space in your yard to accommodate the splash pad you want? Look for a suitable area in your yard, measure how much space you have to work with, and start designing your splash pad from there.
Stay in budget.
What is your budget for this project? Consider costs of labor, materials, and ongoing maintenance. Make this decision early on so that you can keep the entire project within your budgeted range.
Check local regulations.
What permits or approvals will you need to have a splash pad in your backyard? Make sure you have a clear understanding of what your city, town, or HOA will allow. This will help you avoid any costly redos in your construction process.
Work out the water flow.
What is your plan for supplying water to the splash pad? How will you distribute water evenly across the splash pad? What are your drainage needs? Taking the time to answer these questions thoroughly will help you create a system that works perfectly in your backyard.
Choose the right materials.
Safety should be a concern with every element of your backyard, but especially with water features. You’ll want to choose a non-slip material for the splash pad surface in order to prevent slips or other accidents when it gets wet. If you use some sort of rubber material, you also want to be sure to choose a high-quality option that is designed to withstand excessive water exposure.
Choose fun features.
Once you have the basics in place, consider adding fun features to your splash pad, like fountains and spray nozzles. Also, think about adding lights to your splash pad so that you’ll be able to use it even after dark.
Hire a professional.
The truth is, installing a splash pad in your backyard is probably not a project you want to take on yourself. Everything from the planning, to the design, to the installation will be much easier with a professional team on your side. A professional can help make sure that the job is done properly and safely. Work the cost into your budget; it is more than worth it!
Installing a backyard splash pad is exciting and can add a whole new level of interest to your backyard, but it’s important to make sure it is done correctly. Take the time to plan this project carefully and install everything properly, and you’ll end up with a unique water feature that keeps you cool, looks great, and is a ton of fun.
