Guide to Choosing a Contractor

• Determine through the local Better Business Bureau how long a builder has been in business and his rating.
• Do you know a friend or neighbor who has used the same company with good long lasting results?
• How long has your contractor been in business and what is his experience?
• How is his standing with your local Building Department, the State Department of Consumer Affairs and/or Contractor's Board?
• He is a member of a builder’s guild or a professional organization. (The Association of Pool & Spa Professionals) These professional connections give him a strong support network which he can call upon to inform himself if he is lacking information on a particular item.
• He involves himself in industry educational programs, technical seminars, and trade shows where new ideas and products are displayed.
• He can provide you with a reference list of both recent and older projects
• He is capable of bringing to you a wide range of products and services for your consideration without overwhelming you.
• He presents his products and services fairly without attaching competitive products and services.

Study the final proposal carefully to be sure you are satisfied with all aspects of your plan before work commences. Changing the plan during the course of construction can result in unanticipated delays and cost considerations.

back to top

Planning for a Pool

In this section, we look at the key questions that you will need to answer before you make these investments.  We will look at:

• How much pool can I afford?
• Choosing a type of pool.
• Is my yard suited to a pool?
• What zoning restrictions do I face?
• How long will it take to install or build?
• Choosing pool equipment.
• What should I know about insurance?
• What should I know about safety?

How much pool can I afford?

On-Going Expenses

Chemicals: Average between $30 per month depending on your pool size and frequency of use.

Opening and Closing A Pool: Hiring a professional to open and close your pool each season will cost approximately $150.

Utilities: While utility bills do increase during a pool's open season, the use of automatic time clocks and solar covers will reduce this expense.

Choosing Construction Type

We recommend installing a pool type that would be appropriate with the property.

For more information see Types of Pools.

back to top

Is my yard suited to a pool?

Besides determining the best fit for your yard dimensions, consider your yard slope, and accessibility for construction equipment. Severe conditions such as steep sloped lots, rocky soil, underground water tables, and limited access require special construction and installation considerations and typically add to the overall cost and duration of the project.
 

Zoning

Zoning is primarily handled on a local level and typically covers such issues as fencing and barriers, set-backs and proximity to utility lines. Other issues may also be covered. We will be able to inform you of the requirements for your area.

Length of Time to Install or Build

Above-ground pools
Above-ground pools can be installed in a matter of hours or a few days.

In-ground pools
An in-ground pool takes an average of 3 to 5 weeks depending on the complexity of the project. We will supply a projects completion date. Anticipate a little dirt in your life during construction of an in-ground pool.
 

back to top

Pool Equipment

Pumps

A quality contractor can design a system with a lower dynamic head (flow loss due to friction) which will allow the use of a smaller pump.  The contractor accomplishes this by using a larger pipe size and a minimal amount of fittings.  The initial installation cost may be higher but the end result is a more energy efficient system.

Filters

1.HI-RATE SAND media

This type of filter utilizes a fine bed of silica through which the pool water flows. The dirt particles are trapped in the upper layer of the sand, and from time to time, when the loading of the dirt reaches a certain point, it is necessary to flush the sand clean by “backwashing” the filter.

2.DIATOMACEOUS EARTH (D.E.)

This type of filter contains a series of grids covered with a durable fabric. The fabric covered grids are “pre-coated” with a fine powder (diatomaceous earth) and as the water flows through, the dirt particles collect on the powder covered grids. When the dirt loading reaches a certain point, the filter must be “backwashed” , then re-coated with the powder.

3.MODULAR MEDIA (cartridge)

This filter contains either a single “cartridge” or a series of cartridges made of filter fabric. The pool water is forced through the cartridge and the dirt particles become trapped on the surface of the fabric. When the dirt loading becomes excessive the cartridge must be removed and cleaned. No backwashing is required.

back to top

Heaters

In our area a pool heater of some type will extend the swimming season. There are many types of heaters to choose from, such as natural gas, liquid propane gas, solar powered, and heat pumps.

To compliment the heater and to reduce the heat loss from the pool, a pool cover should also be considered. There are many types of covers, each with their own features including efficiency, durability, and safety. 

Pool Cleaners

The Paramount PV3 in-floor cleaning systems are the most convenient and technologically advanced automatic pool that will also circulate the water efficiently, saving you money on heating and chemicals. The use of a high flow pool cleaner will also save you money on heating and chemicals.
 

back to top

Insurance
Insurance coverage for swimming pools is part of homeowners insurance. Some insurance companies raise premiums for owning a swimming pool and others do not. Speak with your insurance agent prior to purchasing or building your pool.

Safety

Safety will be your number one concern as a  pool or spa owner.  More on safety.