Building a swimming pool is an opportunity to transform your backyard into a space designed around the way you live. Whether you envision a place for family gatherings, a relaxing retreat, or an outdoor entertainment area complete with a spa and water features, the right pool builder can help turn that vision into reality.
But choosing a pool builder involves more than finding a design you like or comparing estimates. Your backyard has unique characteristics, your family has specific needs, and the company you choose will play an important role in your experience long after construction is complete.
So, how do you choose the right swimming pool builder for your home? Start by understanding your goals, evaluating your property, researching your options, and asking the right questions before signing a contract.
1. Start With Your Backyard and Your Lifestyle
Before contacting pool builders, think about how you want to use your outdoor space. A pool designed for children and family gatherings may look very different from one intended for exercise, relaxation, or entertaining guests.
Consider questions such as:
Who will use the pool most often?
Do you want space for swimming, playing, lounging, or exercising?
Your answers help establish priorities for the design process. They also give potential builders a clearer understanding of what you want to accomplish.
Think about your backyard as a complete outdoor living space rather than focusing exclusively on the pool itself. The best design considers how the pool, patio, landscaping, shade, and other features work together.
2. Find a Pool Builder With Experience in Your Preferred Design
Not every pool builder specializes in the same types of projects. Some focus on straightforward geometric pools, while others have extensive experience designing elaborate outdoor environments with integrated spas, custom decking, fire features, and waterfalls.
Look for a builder whose completed projects reflect the style, features, and level of customization you want.
Review project galleries and look beyond the most dramatic photographs. Pay attention to the details that matter for your own property, including how the pool fits the available space, how the surrounding patio is arranged, and how the design connects to the home.
Ask potential builders to share examples of projects similar to yours. If you have a smaller backyard, for example, look for designs that maximize usable space without making the area feel crowded.
If you are planning a more elaborate outdoor living area, ask about the builder’s experience coordinating the pool with landscaping, outdoor kitchens, covered patios, and other features.
The goal is to find a builder who can design a pool that works for your property, not simply reproduce a design you saw somewhere else.
3. Make Sure the Builder Understands Your Property
Your backyard plays a major role in determining which pool designs are practical. Even a large property can present construction challenges, while a smaller yard may offer more possibilities than you initially expect.
An experienced pool builder should evaluate your property before finalizing a design.
Property lines and easements: Utility easements, drainage easements, and setback requirements can restrict where a pool can be installed.
Access for construction equipment: Builders need a practical way to reach the excavation area without causing unnecessary disruption to the property.
Elevation and drainage: Slopes, existing drainage patterns, and differences in elevation can influence engineering and site preparation.
Underground utilities and soil conditions: These factors may affect excavation, construction methods, and project requirements.
Existing outdoor features: Trees, fences, retaining walls, patios, and outdoor structures can influence the design and construction process.
Local building codes, permitting requirements, and any applicable homeowners association restrictions may also affect the project.
Ask how the builder evaluates these conditions and when potential issues will be identified. Addressing site constraints early can help prevent design changes, unexpected expenses, and construction complications later.
4. Compare More Than the Initial Pool Price
When reviewing proposals from different pool builders, it is important to compare the scope of work rather than looking at the final price alone.
Two estimates may appear similar while including different materials, equipment, features, or site preparation allowances.
For example, one proposal may include a larger patio, upgraded equipment, and a particular interior finish, while another may leave those items out or list them as additional expenses.
Before comparing estimates, make sure you understand what each builder is proposing.
Review details such as:
Pool dimensions, shape, and depth
Interior finish, tile, and coping selections
Decking materials and the amount of included deck space
Pump, filtration system, lighting, and other equipment
Heating, automation, and water features
Excavation, engineering, and site preparation
Electrical work, plumbing, and required permits
Landscaping restoration and cleanup
Any allowances, exclusions, or potential additional costs
Ask each builder to explain anything that is unclear. A detailed written proposal makes it easier to compare options and understand the value of the work being offered.
The lowest initial estimate is not necessarily the least expensive project in the long run. Understanding exactly what you are purchasing helps you make a more informed decision.
5. Research the Builder’s Reputation, Experience, and Staying Power
A swimming pool is a significant investment in your home, and the company you hire may remain an important resource for years after construction. That makes a builder’s track record, reputation, and long-term stability important considerations.
Start by reading online reviews, browsing completed projects, and looking for information about the company’s history and experience.
When possible, ask for references from previous customers. Speaking with homeowners who have completed similar projects can provide insight into the experience beyond what you see in photographs.
Consider asking references:
Was the design and construction process explained clearly?
Did the builder communicate regularly throughout construction?
How were unexpected issues handled?
Was the finished pool consistent with the agreed-upon plans?
Were questions or warranty concerns addressed after completion?
Would you choose the same builder again?
Look for patterns across multiple reviews and references rather than relying on a sin
gle positive or negative comment.
You should also confirm that the builder carries appropriate insurance, and review relevant professional certifications. Requirements vary by location, so make sure the company is qualified to perform the work in your area.
Why a Pool Builder’s History Matters
A company’s experience can provide valuable insight into its ability to manage projects, support customers, and stand behind its work over time. Industry recognition can offer another useful point of reference when evaluating potential builders.
With more than 30 years in business, Cody Pools brings an established history of designing and building swimming pools for homeowners. That longevity matters because a pool is not simply a one-time purchase. Homeowners may need guidance, equipment support, or warranty assistance years after the construction crew has left.
No company can promise what the future will hold, but choosing an established builder with a substantial track record can provide greater confidence that the company has the experience and infrastructure to support its customers over the long term.
When comparing pool builders, look beyond the finished photographs. Consider how long each company has operated, what its reputation is built on, and whether it has demonstrated a commitment to customers beyond the initial sale.
6. Understand the Construction Process Before You Begin
Building a swimming pool involves multiple stages, from design and permitting to excavation, steel, plumbing, electrical work, decking, finishing, and startup.
The sequence and duration of these stages depend on the pool design, site conditions, weather, permitting, material availability, and other project-specific factors.
Before signing a contract, ask the builder to explain what you should expect throughout construction.
Questions worth asking include:
What are the major stages of the project?
Who will be my primary point of contact?
Who supervises construction at my property?
How will I receive progress updates?
What happens if weather or other issues cause delays?
Who coordinates inspections and subcontractors?
What areas of my yard will be affected during construction?
How will the property be cleaned up when the work is finished?
You should also discuss the anticipated timeline and understand that the completion date may depend on factors outside the builder’s control.
Clear communication is particularly important because construction affects your daily routine and the use of your backyard. Knowing who to contact and what comes next can make the experience easier to navigate.
7. Look Beyond the Warranty: Who Will Be There to Honor It?
A pool warranty is an important part of your purchase, but the length of the warranty is only one part of the equation. You should also consider who is backing the warranty and whether that company is likely to remain available when you need assistance.
A warranty is only as useful as your ability to obtain the coverage and service it promises. If a pool builder goes out of business, its company-backed warranty may no longer be available in practice, even if you still have the original paperwork. Coverage provided by separate equipment manufacturers or other third parties may remain available under their own terms, but that does not necessarily replace the builder’s warranty or its service support.
This is why it is important to evaluate a pool company’s long-term stability before signing a contract, rather than focusing exclusively on the warranty period advertised in a proposal.
Before committing, ask the builder:
What parts of the pool and construction are covered?
How long does each warranty last?
Are structural work, interior finishes, and equipment covered separately?
What exclusions or maintenance requirements apply?
How do I submit a warranty claim?
Who handles warranty service for equipment and construction-related issues?
What happens if the company responsible for the warranty is no longer operating?
Request the applicable warranty documents in writing and read the terms carefully. Understand which company is responsible for each component and whether any separate manufacturer warranties apply.
An established company with decades of operating history offers an important consideration when evaluating long-term support. Cody Pools has been in business for more than 30 years, reflecting an established presence in the pool-building industry.
While no business can guarantee its future, choosing a builder with a proven history can help you make a more informed decision about who you want standing behind your investment.
Don’t compare pool warranties by the number of years alone. Compare the coverage, the company responsible, and the likelihood that you will be able to get help when you need it.
8. Review the Contract and Payment Schedule
Before committing to a pool builder, carefully review the written contract. It should clearly describe the agreed-upon project and establish expectations for both parties.
Depending on the project and local requirements, the contract should address the scope of work, design specifications, materials, equipment, payment terms, project schedule, permits, and procedures for handling changes.
Pay particular attention to allowances and exclusions. If a selection has not been finalized or an item is not included in the quoted price, understand how that decision could affect your total cost.
Ask how change orders are documented and approved. Changes to the design or unexpected site conditions can affect both cost and schedule, so it is important to understand the process before construction begins.
Finally, review the payment schedule and make sure you understand when payments are due and what milestones they correspond to.
Taking time to understand these details before signing can help reduce misunderstandings during construction and after your pool is complete.
9. Think About Pool Ownership Beyond Construction
Your relationship with a pool builder should not end with the final construction payment. A new pool also brings ongoing responsibilities, including water chemistry, cleaning, equipment maintenance, and seasonal considerations where applicable.
Before choosing a builder, ask what guidance you will receive when the pool is completed.
Will someone explain how to operate the equipment? Will you receive instructions for routine maintenance? What should you know about water chemistry, cleaning, and protecting your investment?
Consider long-term operating needs when selecting equipment and features. Energy-efficient pumps, automation, lighting, and heating options may influence convenience and operating costs, depending on how you use the pool.
Planning for ownership from the beginning helps ensure that your finished pool fits not only your backyard but also your lifestyle and expectations for ongoing care.
10. Choose the Builder Who Understands Your Vision
After researching companies, reviewing proposals, and asking questions, take a step back and consider the overall experience each builder offers.
The right choice should reflect more than a compelling design or attractive price. You want a company that listens to your priorities, understands your property’s limitations, explains its recommendations, and communicates clearly about the decisions involved.
Pay attention to how the builder responds to your questions. Are potential challenges discussed openly? Are design recommendations explained? Do you understand what is included in the proposal and what happens next?
Trust matters, but it should be supported by clear documentation, a verifiable track record, and a construction process you understand.
Ultimately, the right pool builder is the one whose experience, design approach, project scope, and communication style align with your needs.
For homeowners comparing builders, Cody Pools’ combination of more than 30 years in business, national industry recognition, and an established track record makes the company worth considering as you plan your backyard.
Frequently Asked Questions About Choosing a Pool Builder
How do I choose the best pool builder for my backyard?
Start by identifying how you want to use your pool and what your property can accommodate. Then compare builders based on experience with similar projects, completed work, customer references, written proposals, insurance, applicable licensing, warranties, and communication. Consider the company’s history and long-term stability, too. The best choice is the builder who can deliver a suitable design with clearly defined expectations.
How many pool builders should I get quotes from?
Comparing two or three qualified pool builders can help you understand different design approaches, project scopes, and pricing. Make sure you provide each company with similar goals and compare what is included in each proposal, rather than choosing based on the total price alone.
What questions should I ask a pool builder before signing a contract?
Ask about experience, references, property evaluation, design revisions, permits, construction supervision, project timelines, payment schedules, warranties, and post-construction support. Ask how long the company has been in business and who will be responsible for warranty claims. Make sure all important project details and agreed-upon terms are documented in writing.
Why does a pool builder’s business history matter?
A company’s history can help you evaluate its experience, reputation, and potential to provide long-term customer support. Because pools may require service or warranty assistance years after construction, it is worth considering whether the builder has an established track record and the resources to support homeowners over time.
What happens to my pool warranty if the builder goes out of business?
If the builder responsible for a company-backed warranty closes, you may lose access to that company’s warranty service. Separate manufacturer warranties may still apply to eligible equipment or components, depending on their terms. Before signing, identify which company backs each warranty, review the coverage and exclusions, and ask how claims are handled.
What makes Cody Pools different from other pool builders?
Cody Pools has been named the #1 Pool Builder in the Nation by Pool & Spa News for 14 consecutive years, has earned the BBB Torch Award, and has been recognized as PHTA Pool Builder of the Year. With more than 30 years in business, Cody Pools offers homeowners an established history of pool construction and industry recognition to consider when evaluating their options.
How long does it take to build a swimming pool?
The timeline depends on the design, permitting, site conditions, weather, material availability, and construction complexity. Ask your builder for an estimated schedule that outlines the major phases and explains how delays or changes will be communicated.
Start Planning Your Backyard Transformation
Choosing a pool builder is one of the most important decisions in creating your ideal outdoor living space. By evaluating your backyard, defining your priorities, researching potential builders, and understanding the project details, you can approach the process with greater confidence.
At Cody Pools, we believe a well-designed pool should complement your home, fit your lifestyle, and create opportunities for lasting memories with the people who matter most.
Our more than 30 years in business, recognition as the #1 Pool Builder in the Nation by Pool & Spa News for 14 consecutive years, and industry honors reflect a longstanding commitment to the pool-building industry. We understand that homeowners are investing in more than a finished pool. They are choosing a company to help bring their vision to life and support their investment beyond construction.
Whether you are envisioning a simple place to cool off or a complete backyard retreat, the first step is exploring what is possible for your property.
Ready to start planning your backyard? Explore the possibilities with Cody Pools and take the first step toward designing an outdoor space made for your family.
Before settling on a particular pool shape or style, consider how your backyard functions and what you want from your new pool.
Backyard size and layout: The available space, property boundaries, existing landscaping, and proximity to your home all influence which pool designs will work best. It’s also important to identify any existing utility easements or other easements on your property, as these may restrict where a pool or other structures can be built. A smaller backyard may benefit from a compact geometric pool, while a larger property may accommodate an expansive freeform design with additional outdoor living features. Before finalizing your design, your pool builder should consider applicable property setbacks, easement restrictions, underground utilities, and other site-specific requirements.
How you plan to use your pool: Do you want a place for children to play, a relaxing retreat, a space to entertain guests, or an area for exercise? Your primary goals will help determine the pool’s shape, depth, layout, and features.
Your home’s architectural style: A well-designed pool should complement your home rather than compete with it. Clean lines often pair well with contemporary architecture, while flowing shapes can complement traditional homes and natural landscaping.
Desired features: Consider whether you want an attached spa, tanning ledge, waterfall, beach entry, swim-up seating, or other custom features. Planning these elements early helps create a cohesive design.
Maintenance and long-term use: Different layouts and features can affect cleaning requirements, equipment needs, and ongoing maintenance. Consider how much time you want to spend maintaining your pool alongside how you want to enjoy it.
6 Swimming Pool Designs to Consider for Your Backyard
There isn’t one pool design that works for every homeowner. These six options offer different advantages depending on your available space, personal style, and intended use.
Geometric pools feature defined shapes, straight lines, and clean angles. Common designs include rectangular, square, and L-shaped pools.
Their structured appearance makes them a natural fit for contemporary homes, minimalist landscaping, and outdoor spaces with strong architectural lines. Geometric pools can also create a natural visual connection between the house, patio, and surrounding landscape.
Why choose a geometric pool?
Creates a clean, timeless architectural appearance.
Works well with modern homes and structured landscaping.
Can accommodate dedicated swimming lanes or open swimming areas.
Pairs naturally with tanning ledges, integrated spas, and linear water features.
A rectangular pool with an attached spa and a spacious patio, for example, can create an elegant outdoor living space without overwhelming the home’s architecture.
Best for: Homeowners who prefer modern design, defined shapes, and a clean, organized backyard layout.
Freeform pools feature curved edges and flowing shapes that create a more organic appearance. Rather than following strict geometric lines, these designs can work with the contours of the property and surrounding landscaping.
They are particularly appealing to homeowners who want their backyard to feel like a private retreat. Natural stone, lush landscaping, cascading waterfalls, and strategically placed boulders can enhance the effect.
Why choose a freeform pool?
Creates a softer, more organic appearance.
Complements natural landscaping and curved garden beds.
Offers flexibility when designing around existing outdoor features.
Works well with rock waterfalls, grottos, and tropical-inspired settings.
A freeform pool surrounded by layered landscaping and a cascading water feature can transform an ordinary backyard into a relaxing escape.
Best for: Homeowners who prefer natural shapes, resort-inspired environments, and a more relaxed outdoor atmosphere.
A smaller backyard doesn’t necessarily mean giving up on a custom swimming pool. Compact designs can provide a place to cool off, relax, and entertain without requiring a large portion of the property.
Geometric shapes are often a practical choice for smaller spaces because their defined footprints can make planning easier. However, the best layout depends on property dimensions, setbacks, access, and other site conditions.
Why choose a compact pool?
Makes efficient use of limited backyard space.
Can leave room for seating, landscaping, or an outdoor dining area.
Can incorporate premium features in a smaller footprint.
May reduce the amount of space dedicated to pool decking and surrounding hardscape.
Features such as a tanning ledge, bench seating, or a compact attached spa can add functionality without requiring a sprawling pool design.
Best for: Homeowners with smaller lots who want to balance swimming and relaxation with other outdoor living priorities.
4. Family-Friendly Pools: Best for Recreation and Everyday Enjoyment
For households that envision their pool as the center of family activities, the layout should prioritize how everyone will use the space.
A family-friendly pool may feature a shallow lounging area, a tanning ledge, open swimming space, or different depth zones designed around the household’s needs. The goal is to create a versatile environment for play, relaxation, and spending time together.
Why choose a family-focused design?
Can accommodate different activities within one pool.
Provides opportunities for lounging and open swimming.
Can incorporate seating areas for adults and shallow areas for supervised play.
Offers flexibility as family needs change over time.
When planning a family pool, discuss appropriate depths, visibility, entry and exit points, and safety features with your pool designer. Shallow areas and tanning ledges are not substitutes for active supervision or appropriate barriers.
Best for: Homeowners who want a versatile backyard gathering place for everyday family use and entertaining.
5. Lap Pools: Best for Fitness and Swimming
Lap pools are designed primarily for swimming exercise. Their long, relatively narrow shape provides a dedicated area for swimming back and forth, making them appealing to homeowners who want to incorporate fitness into their outdoor space.
Although rectangular designs are common, the ideal dimensions depend on the available property, intended workouts, and personal preferences.
Why choose a lap pool?
Provides dedicated space for swimming exercise.
Offers a straightforward, functional layout.
Can complement contemporary landscaping and architecture.
May fit along the side of a property or within a narrow backyard, depending on site requirements.
Homeowners interested in swimming workouts should discuss the intended pool length, depth, and circulation with their designer. For some properties, a compact pool with a suitable counter-current swimming system may be another option.
Best for: Homeowners who prioritize swimming, exercise, and a functional design over elaborate recreational features.
6. Resort-Style Pools: Best for Luxury Outdoor Living
Resort-style pools focus on creating an immersive outdoor experience. These designs often combine multiple features into a cohesive environment that feels like a private vacation destination.
Depending on the property and homeowner’s vision, a resort-inspired pool may include an integrated spa, tanning ledge, waterfall, fire bowls, dramatic lighting, or expansive lounging areas.
Why choose a resort-style pool?
Creates a focal point for the entire backyard.
Combines swimming, relaxation, and entertaining.
Offers opportunities to integrate water, fire, lighting, and landscaping.
Can connect the pool to outdoor kitchens, covered patios, and other living spaces.
The most successful resort-style designs balance impressive features with practical circulation, seating, maintenance access, and the overall layout of the property.
Best for: Homeowners who want a more immersive outdoor living environment with space for relaxation, entertaining, and enjoying their backyard.
Which Pool Features Should You Consider?
Once you’ve narrowed down the general pool design, consider which features will make it more enjoyable and functional.
Tanning ledges: These shallow areas provide space for lounging in the water and can accommodate in-water lounge chairs designed for the intended depth.
Spas: An integrated spa adds another way to enjoy the backyard and can create a natural transition between relaxation and swimming areas.
Waterfalls and water features: Cascades, deck jets, and other features add movement and sound while helping establish the pool’s overall aesthetic.
Beach entries: A gradually sloping entry can create a distinctive look and provide a gradual transition into the pool. The appropriate design depends on the property’s space and intended use.
Fire features: Fire bowls and other outdoor fire elements can create a striking contrast with the water and add atmosphere to evening gatherings.
Lighting: Thoughtfully placed pool and landscape lighting can improve visibility and create a more inviting environment after sunset. Lighting should be designed alongside appropriate pool safety measures.
You don’t need to include every available feature. The best design prioritizes the elements that suit your lifestyle, complement your home, and fit your outdoor space.
How Do You Choose the Right Pool Shape for Your Backyard?
If you’re deciding between a geometric, freeform, or compact pool, start by evaluating the property itself.
A geometric pool may be the strongest option when you want defined lines that complement the home’s architecture. A freeform design may work better when you prefer a softer appearance that blends with the landscaping. A compact design can help balance swimming space with a patio, garden, or other outdoor living features.
The shape is only one part of the decision. Your designer should also consider property dimensions, setbacks, drainage, underground utilities, access for construction equipment, and any site-specific engineering requirements.
It is also important to look beyond the pool itself. A design that fills the entire backyard may leave little room for the seating, shade, landscaping, and gathering areas that make the space enjoyable. Planning the pool and surrounding environment together can help create a more balanced result.
What Type of Pool Is Best for Your Lifestyle?
The right pool is ultimately the one that fits the way you want to live.
If you enjoy hosting gatherings, you may prefer an open swimming area with convenient access to outdoor seating. If relaxation is your priority, an attached spa, tanning ledge, or water feature may be more important than maximizing swimming space. If fitness is your primary goal, a dedicated lap pool may make more sense than a design centered on decorative features.
Consider how your needs might change over time, too. A pool that works for young children should also offer flexibility as they grow, while homeowners planning to stay in their homes for many years may prioritize long-term accessibility and ease of maintenance.
A custom design gives you the opportunity to balance these priorities rather than choosing a one-size-fits-all layout.
Design a Custom Pool With Cody Pools
The best swimming pool design starts with your property, your priorities, and your vision for outdoor living. From sleek geometric pools and natural freeform designs to family-friendly layouts and resort-inspired backyards, a thoughtful design can help you get more enjoyment from your outdoor space.
Cody Pools brings experience in designing and building custom swimming pools for homeowners with different properties, lifestyles, and design preferences. Our team can help you explore your options, consider the details that matter most, and develop a design tailored to your backyard.
Ready to start planning? Explore our pool design gallery for inspiration and contact Cody Pools to discuss your custom pool project.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most popular swimming pool shape?
Rectangular and other geometric pools are popular choices for their clean appearance and versatility. Freeform pools are also widely used, particularly in backyards designed around natural landscaping or resort-style features. The best shape depends on the property, home architecture, and intended use.
What type of pool is best for a small backyard?
A compact geometric pool is often a practical starting point because its defined footprint can make it easier to plan around patios, landscaping, and property boundaries. The right design depends on the available space, local requirements, and the features you want to include.
Are geometric pools better than freeform pools?
Neither design is universally better. Geometric pools tend to suit structured, contemporary spaces, while freeform pools offer a softer, more organic appearance. Both can be customized with features such as spas, tanning ledges, lighting, and water features.
What type of pool is best for families?
A family-friendly pool should reflect the ages, interests, and needs of the people who will use it. Open swimming space, appropriate depth zones, convenient entry points, and thoughtfully selected features can help create a versatile environment. Active supervision and appropriate safety barriers remain essential.
Can you add a spa or tanning ledge to a custom pool?
Yes, an attached spa or tanning ledge can be incorporated into many custom pool designs. Feasibility depends on the available space, layout, engineering, and other project requirements, so these features should be discussed during the design process.
How do you know which pool design will fit your property?
Start by evaluating the usable backyard area, property setbacks, access, drainage, and existing structures. A custom pool designer can help assess these factors and develop a layout that balances swimming space with decking, landscaping, and outdoor living areas.
Should you design your pool and outdoor living space together?
Yes. Planning the pool alongside patios, shade structures, landscaping, outdoor kitchens, and seating areas helps create a cohesive backyard. It can also make it easier to coordinate circulation, utilities, and construction requirements before work begins.
Cody Pools is proud to announce that our teams have received 28 International Awards of Excellence from the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA), recognizing outstanding pool and outdoor living projects across multiple categories.
This year’s awards include:
5 Gold Awards
5 Silver Awards
7 Bronze Awards
11 Merit Awards
These awards recognize the creativity, craftsmanship, and attention to detail that go into the pools and outdoor living spaces designed and built by Cody Pools.
See Our Award-Winning Work
Take a look at some of the projects and craftsmanship behind this year’s recognition:
From innovative pool designs to thoughtfully integrated outdoor environments, each project reflects our commitment to creating spaces that bring people together and are built to be enjoyed for years to come.
Recognized Among the Best in the Industry
The PHTA International Awards of Excellence are among the pool and spa industry’s most respected design and construction honors. Each year, the program recognizes exceptional work from professionals across the industry, highlighting projects that demonstrate creativity, technical expertise, craftsmanship, and thoughtful design.
For Cody Pools, these awards are a reflection of the many people who contribute to bringing each project to life.
Our designers work to understand how homeowners want to use their outdoor spaces. Our construction teams turn those designs into reality through careful planning and craftsmanship. And our project managers, service teams, and support staff help ensure every detail receives the attention it deserves.
28 Awards Across Our Markets
Receiving 28 awards in a single year is particularly meaningful because the recognition spans a wide range of projects and design approaches.
Some projects showcase clean, modern lines and sophisticated finishes, while others incorporate expansive outdoor living areas, water features, custom details, and unique architectural elements. Each project presents its own challenges and opportunities, and our teams work to create a finished space that is both visually striking and functional for the people who will use it.
The result is a collection of award-winning projects that demonstrates the range of possibilities available when thoughtful design and quality construction come together.
Recognition Made Possible by Our Teams
Awards like these are never the result of one person or one department. They are the result of collaboration from the first design concept through construction and completion.
We are proud of the designers, sales professionals, project managers, construction crews, subcontractors, and support teams whose work makes these projects possible.
Most importantly, we are grateful to the homeowners who trusted Cody Pools to bring their outdoor living visions to life. Their ideas, preferences, and partnership throughout the process are an important part of every successful project.
Featured in Aqua Magazine
The winning Cody Pools projects will also be featured in the October 2026 issue of Aqua Magazine, providing an opportunity to showcase this work to an even broader audience within the pool and spa industry.
We are honored to have our projects recognized alongside exceptional work from pool builders and professionals from across the industry.
Building Award-Winning Outdoor Spaces
Since 1994, Cody Pools has continued to evolve while staying focused on the fundamentals that matter most: thoughtful design, quality craftsmanship, and a commitment to our customers.
These 28 PHTA International Awards of Excellence are another milestone in that journey. They recognize not only the finished projects, but also the people, ideas, and craftsmanship behind them.
Congratulations to everyone at Cody Pools who helped make these 28 awards possible, and thank you to our customers for allowing us to create outdoor spaces where families and friends can gather, relax, and make lasting memories.
To explore more of Cody Pools’ award-winning work and learn what is possible for your own backyard, contact Cody Pools today.
For the 14th consecutive year, Cody Pools has been recognized as the #1 Pool Builder in the Nation by Pool & Spa News in its prestigious 2026 PSN/Hayward Top 50 Builders rankings.
This remarkable achievement is more than an award, it’s a reflection of the trust our customers place in us, the dedication of our team, and our unwavering commitment to building exceptional pools and delivering an outstanding customer experience. Being named the nation’s top pool builder for 14 straight years is an honor we don’t take lightly, and we’re incredibly grateful to everyone who has made it possible.
A Legacy of Excellence
Since 1994, Cody Pools has been helping families transform their backyards into extraordinary outdoor living spaces. From timeless, elegant pool designs to resort-inspired retreats complete with spas, water features, fire features, outdoor kitchens, and more, every project is thoughtfully designed and expertly crafted to reflect each homeowner’s vision.
Each year, the Pool & Spa News Top 50 Builders list recognizes the industry’s leading pool builders based on business performance, innovation, customer satisfaction, and operational excellence. Earning the #1 ranking for 14 consecutive years is a testament to the consistent quality, craftsmanship, and service that have become synonymous with the Cody Pools name.
Thank You to Our Customers
This recognition would not be possible without the thousands of homeowners who have trusted Cody Pools with one of the most meaningful investments in their home.
Thank you for allowing us to bring your backyard dreams to life. Your confidence inspires us to continue raising the bar and delivering an experience that exceeds expectations every step of the way.
Celebrating an Incredible Team
This achievement belongs to every member of the Cody Pools family. From our designers and superintendents to our construction crews and support staff, our team’s passion, expertise, and commitment to excellence are what continue to set Cody Pools apart.
Their dedication to quality craftsmanship and exceptional customer service is the foundation of everything we do.
Watch Our #1 Announcement
We’re excited to celebrate this milestone with our customers, employees, and partners.
See the Official Rankings
View the complete 2026 PSN/Hayward Top 50 Builders rankings here:
Being named the #1 Pool Builder in the Nation for the 14th consecutive year is an incredible honor, but it’s also motivation to keep improving, innovating, and delivering the level of quality and service our customers have come to expect.
To everyone who has chosen Cody Pools over the years, thank you for your trust and support. We look forward to continuing to create beautiful backyards and unforgettable memories for families for many years to come.
Three States. One Common Theme: Summer Is Better by the Pool.
There are few things that Texas, Arizona, and Florida have in common geographically. Texas offers sprawling landscapes and vibrant cities, Arizona is known for its desert beauty and breathtaking mountain views, and Florida is surrounded by miles of coastline and tropical scenery.
But when summer arrives, these three states share one undeniable reality: the heat is here to stay.
Instead of planning your schedule around soaring temperatures, imagine stepping into your own backyard oasis whenever you want. A custom swimming pool transforms summer from something you endure into something you look forward to. Whether you’re hosting friends, spending time with family, or simply cooling off after work, a pool becomes the centerpiece of your home all season long.
Texas: Your Backyard Becomes the Weekend Destination
Summer in Texas means backyard barbecues, Fourth of July celebrations, and long evenings spent outdoors. But with temperatures regularly climbing into the 90s and 100s, finding a way to stay cool is essential.
A custom pool allows homeowners to make the most of every summer day without leaving home.
Watching the sunset from the spa with a cold drink in hand.
Rather than spending hours driving to crowded beaches, lakes or water parks, your favorite summer destination is just outside your back door. For Texas homeowners, a pool isn’t simply a luxury, it’s an extension of everyday living.
Arizona: Beat the Desert Heat
Arizona summers are legendary. Triple-digit temperatures are common, and afternoon sunshine can make outdoor activities challenging. While many people retreat indoors, homeowners with custom pools enjoy an entirely different experience.
Morning swims become part of the daily routine. Afternoons are spent floating beneath shade structures or relaxing beside cascading water features. Evenings become comfortable gathering spaces once the desert sun begins to set.
Today’s pool designs also incorporate cooling features such as:
With thoughtful design, your backyard becomes a private resort designed specifically for Arizona’s climate.
Florida: Enjoy Resort Living Every Day
Florida is synonymous with outdoor living. Warm weather, palm trees, and nearly year-round sunshine make pools one of the most popular home improvements throughout the state.
A custom pool perfectly complements Florida lifestyles by creating a space for:
Whether overlooking a lake, nestled among tropical landscaping, or situated just minutes from the beach, a thoughtfully designed pool creates the feeling of being on vacation without ever packing a suitcase. In Florida, outdoor living isn’t seasonal, it’s a way of life.
More Than a Place to Swim
Modern pools have evolved far beyond a simple rectangle filled with water.
The result is a complete outdoor living environment that can be enjoyed from sunrise until well after sunset. A custom pool becomes the centerpiece that brings every outdoor feature together.
A Place Where Families Make Memories
Some of life’s best moments happen at home. Children learning to swim. Birthday parties filled with laughter. Holiday cookouts. Quiet evenings floating beneath the stars.
These are the memories that families remember for decades. A custom pool creates opportunities to spend more time together without needing elaborate vacation plans or expensive weekend getaways. Instead of asking, “What should we do this weekend?” the answer is often as simple as stepping outside.
Designed for Your Lifestyle
No two families use their outdoor spaces the same way. Some homeowners prioritize entertaining large groups. Others want a peaceful retreat after busy workdays. Some envision a backyard where children can play safely for years to come.
A custom pool should reflect the way you live. Whether your style is sleek and modern, timeless and elegant, tropical, or resort-inspired, every design can be tailored to complement your home, your property, and your lifestyle.
Build Your Backyard Vacation
Across Texas, Arizona, and Florida, one thing is certain: summer isn’t going anywhere. Instead of escaping the heat, embrace it with a backyard built for relaxation, entertaining, and making memories.
At Cody Pools, we’ve spent decades designing award-winning custom pools that help homeowners enjoy more of the places they already love most, their own homes. This summer, skip the crowded resorts, avoid the long drives, and create a destination that’s always open. Because the best vacations don’t always require travel. Sometimes they’re waiting just outside your back door. Get started on building your dream pool today by reaching out for a free design and quote with Cody Pools.
