Why ask the Questions?
We know that the decision to put in a swimming pool is a big one. It’s exciting to think of all the fun you will have with family and friends. Nevertheless, choosing the right pool builder is just as important as the decision to build a pool. The financial investment in a swimming pool is significant and choosing the wrong builder can mean unwanted frustrations, a poorly built pool or worse…..one that is never completed. Below are some of the things to consider when researching local pool builders.
Considerations in Choosing the Right Pool Builder
- FINANCIAL STRENGTH: Is the pool builder you’re considering financially solid and bonded and insured. This is critical in determing if they will be able to finish your swimming pool project.
- CONSTRUCTION STANDARDS: Does they’re construction standards meet, or preferably exceed industry standards.
- INDUSTRY CERTIFICATION: Ask if they’re designers and construction staff are certified by the PHTA (Pool & Hot Tub Alliance)
- HOW LONG THEY HAVE BEEN IN BUSINESS: If they have been around for decades and in the same locations, that can be a solid sign of company stability and customer satisfaction.
- REFERRALS – Ask any pool construction company for testimonials/referrals. Also review their online reviews.
Choosing the Right Pool Builder for the Right Pool Design for You
Besides the items listed above, you will also want to consider a pool builder’s ability to build you the right pool for your lifestyle. Their designer should be able to show you a variety of pool designs that represent various shapes, sizes and features. During a design consultation, a designer will listen to your ideas and vision and show you examples of pools that match. The designer will also measure your backyard and then take the measurements and design criteria and start designing your pool. They will soon provide you with a realistic 3D rendering and scale drawing of the pool and backyard and work with you until you are 100% satisfied with the plan.
There are many other design considerations that can arise based on the terrain, your desire for water movement/water features, etc. A good designer will assist you through this process while insuring that what is conceived is buildable.
How Detailed are Their Estimate and Contract?
An accurate estimate can only be arrived at by thorough conversations between you and your pool builder. The initial consultation will identify your desired pool design. After a design has been approved, you should expect a pool builder to provide you with a written proposal/contract that defines all of the features included in the project. This document should define the responsibilities of both the contractor and you as the homeowner.
What will the Contract contain?
A typical proposal should include at least the below information.
- Pool and Spa (when applicable) lengths, widths and depths
- Materials to be used for the interior finish, the waterline tile, any water features, rock materials, etc.
- Type and amount of decking
- Utility runs and hook-ups as applicable (electric / gas)
- Equipment to be installed (Pumps, Filter, Heater, Controller, Etc.)
- Cleaning system
- Water sanitation system
- Responsibilities of homeowner
- Contact information (Office and/or Cell phones)
- Warranty information
A swimming pool is an investment that keeps providing returns year after year. Those returns are in the form of family fun and family memories. You’ve worked hard to get to a place in your life where you can make your backyard dreams a reality. We hope this article has provided you with some very valuable information on choosing a pool builder. We would love to work with you if you reach the point where you are ready to “Build your backyard dream”. Let us know if we can be of any assistance.