How can I be sure to make the "right" decision when I choose a pool builder?

Referrals can be a valuable source of information. Talk to past customers, or even go visit their pool, to get a feel for what to expect from a builder. Trade organizations such as Aquatech or APSP are also good sources of information, and be sure to check with the Better Business Bureau for information on the owner of the business, how long they have been in business, and any complaints.

I see ads all the time which promise pools for incredible deals and/or for "the lowest price available". Can I really buy a pool like this?

Well, you could, but you may be sorry. Most of those "incredible deals" are nothing more than a bait-and-switch tactic to get you in the door. If you do manage to keep the pool cost down, you may end up sacrificing good quality construction, equipment, and follow-up service for that "good deal".

Why do estimates between builders vary so much when the pool seems to be the same?

Because there are so many factors that go into building a swimming pool, there are a lot of places to cut corners. How the structure of the pool is built and what materials are used, what equipment is installed, and service and follow-up can all affect the cost of the pool.

What factors can affect the cost of building a pool?

Access to the yard, slope (whether a retaining wall is needed), digging the pool in rock, utility re-routes, and the size of the pool can all affect the cost.

What if I have a small or difficult yard? Can I still have a pool put in?

Yes. Depending on what constraints you have, the cost may be higher, but most backyards can support a pool.

What type of options and accessories are available for my pool?

Pools come in many shapes, styles and types to fit any lifestyle. Spas, diving boards/rocks/platforms, tanning ledges, slides, benches, waterfalls, tile mosaics, and beach entries are just some of the add-ons. Remote controls, automatic cleaners, sanitizing systems, heaters, fiber optic lighting, and many other options allow you to customize your pool and make owning a pool easier and more fun than ever before.

How do I decide on the best design for our family?

Looking at photos can help you decide on what features are important to you. Also, consider what you want to use the pool for (games, laps, diving) to get a feel for what shape and size best suits your needs.

What types of financing are available for this type of project?

Banks can finance this as a 5, 10, or 15 year home improvement loan. Usually, no money is required as a down payment, and the interest is usually tax deductible.

What kind of warranties should I expect?

What does "lifetime structural warranty" really mean?

Pool equipment is usually warrantied from 2 - 10 years, depending on the manufacturer's warranties. Pulliam warrants that the pool structure will remain sound for as long as you own your pool. Structurally sound means that the pool will not lose water as a result of a structural crack in the gunite shell.

Are there really any "care free" swimming pools?

An automatic pool sweep can cut your maintenance time by up to 90%, particularly if you don't have many trees. An automatic chlorinator or chlorine generator can also reduce chemical usage and costs by over 2/3.

Should I consider building my own pool instead of hiring a pool company?

NO! By building a pool yourself rather than using an authorized dealer, you forfeit the manufacturers' warranties on equipment. You also have no recourse for any mistakes made during construction.

How long does it really take to build a swimming pool?

A pool takes about 4-6 weeks from the dig date to completion (depending on weather and season), but because of necessary permits, the entire process may take 2-3 months from the contract date. Some county areas do not require the same permitting process, which can make your build time shorter.

Will we be required to be home the entire time the pool is being built?

There are only a few days you will need to be home throughout the building process - the day the pool is dug, and the day electricians are there (after the pool is gunited). You will also need to be available to water down the gunite 3 times a day for 2 weeks after it is sprayed, and be there to turn off the water when the pool is full. You will have start-up/pool school instruction at which time you will need to start brushing your pool plaster. (Not all pool plasters apply.)