How to Purchase a Swimming Pool

How to Purchase a Swimming Pool
Published: April 17, 2008

Vailes Brothers

The decision to build a pool is simple, but selecting the type, shape, size and look of your backyard paradise is a little more challenging. Options available today are limitless, and your backyard paradise can range from the traditional rectangular pool to a more sophisticated tropical paradise pool that rivals Mother Nature’s creations.

TYPES OF POOLS

In-ground Concrete (Gunite)

These are permanent, reinforced pools with concrete and plaster instead of vinyl liners. Concrete pools are often seen in commercial applications; many private homeowners also choose concrete pools for their design flexibility since they can be built in any shape. Concrete pool owners can also choose from many plaster finishes or pebble applications for the pool floor, allowing for maximum creativity.

Other considerations with concrete pools are as follows; amount of time for installation 12-16 weeks, increased maintenance cost, and re-plastering every 10-15 years.

Fiberglass

“One Piece” Fiberglass Pools are manufactured in factories utilizing quality control standards and then transported to the job site.. Most manufacturers offer many varieties of sizes and shapes. With newer technologies for color, fiberglass pools offer a wide range of options from the simple pool to the sophisticated pool. Many options are available that give fiberglass pools a permanent aesthetic appeal. Tile borders, inlaid mosaics are also available. Fiberglass pools offer custom bench areas and steps in their molds that make them extremely appealing. One limitation of fiberglass pools is size due to transportation from manufacturing facilities.

In-ground Vinyl

Traditional in-ground vinyl pools are usually constructed with 42"or 48” steel, or polymer panels. Vermiculite mixed with cement is used to create a pool bottom, which is covered by a vinyl liner. Rectangular pools are common, but other shapes are available. Size is not limited. Many color options are available. Vinyl liners need to be replaced every 10-15 years. Warranties are limited on liners but range from 25 to life on steel and polymer panels.

Above Ground

Aless permanent swimming solution, above ground pools are great for people who might move in a few years as they can be relocated with the purchase of a new vinyl liner. Installed on top of the ground, these pools will have heights from 48”-56”. Sand is used under the pool for the bottom. Color options are limited and professional installation is recommended. These pools are normally the least expensive.

Perimeter Decks

The most common finishes around the exterior of pools are concrete walks or decks. Stamped concrete is becoming popular offering different patterns, colors, and finishes. Natural stone, brick or concrete pavers, wood or synthetic decks, and decorative coping stones are other options. Whatever you choose is something you will see and maintain for years to come.

Other Options to Consider

Stamped Concrete, Colored Concrete, Multi-Colored lighting, Rock Waterfalls, Diving Boards, Slides, Spillover Spas, Mesh Winter Safety Covers, Automatic Covers, Steps, Ladders, Handrails, Pool Safety, Pool Circulation, Manual & Automatic Sanitization, In- Floor Cleaning Systems, Automatic Pool Cleaners, Automatic Controls Systems.

Picking a Pool Builder

Now that you have a head full of dazzling dreams solicit recommendations for pool builders from friends and homebuilders. Remember these dreams will cost more as the scope of the project grows. Once you have educated yourself and considered some of the options next you will make a decision similar to proposing marriage believe it or not. Once the deed is done, you’re wedded to the choice for life. Picking the right pool builder to match your needs will make the experience enjoyable. Selecting the wrong one will make the experience very unpleasant. Make sure they have all the licenses and insurance required to be a contractor. Also, make sure they are a member of The Association of Pool & Spas Professionals. Look for builders with retail stores and service departments. Consider you are buying the expertise of the whole company for future purchases. Another feature of a quality builder is a computer aided design system. This will enable the builder to give you a preview of the finished product they will provide. Look for builders who uses quality materials that are proven to last. Be leery of the contract that promises the sun, moon and stars. Don’t expect written price quotations on the spot. When you do get them, watch out for low balls on the pool cost. Lots of times they will try to get more out of add-ons and options. Pools take time to construct properly. They’re a purchase you’ll be enjoying for a lifetime. Price and speed are not usually the only deciding factor.