It’s likely that there are more than 25 million homes in America that have the potential to have a built-in pool. That’s a lot of fun just waiting to happen!
While having a pool in your backyard brings a lot of relaxation and excitement, the building process isn’t always as enjoyable. In order to have as smooth of an experience as possible, you have to find the right swimming pool builders.
When you work with the right professionals, you’ll be swimming and lounging in no-time. These tips will help you find the right team for you.
1. Knowledge and Skills
The last thing you would want when building a pool is to hire someone and then find out they don’t actually know what they’re doing.
There are a lot of different materials and techniques that go into building an awesome pool. Your pool builder needs to know how to do all of them (and to do them well) in order for you to get exactly what you’re looking for.
When you’re searching for a company to work with you can ask for their qualifications and previous projects. These will help you get a good idea of their skill level.
Pay close attention to their finish work as that’s what makes or breaks the whole look and functionality of a pool.
2. Matches Your Vision
Gone are the days of a square pool with two ladders and a diving board. Backyard pools have really upped their game in recent years.
The designs for pools are so varied and can be made to match any house and decor style. If you have a specific look in mind, share that upfront with the builder to make sure they can handle the job.
If you’re not sure what you’re looking for, it’s helpful to work with pool builders who also aid in the design process. They can give you advice and ideas you may not have thought of before.
Working hand in hand with your builder will often give you the best results.
3. License and Insurance
A critical step when hiring contractors and builders for any construction project is to make sure they are licensed and have insurance.
These things ensure that you are working with a legitimate business and that they are who they say they are. It allows you to have more confidence in their skills and that you’ll be getting what you asked for.
And if something goes wrong during construction, they’re covered so you won’t be left with a ton of added bills to repair the damage.
Unfortunately, there are a lot of shady businesses out there. So knowing your pool builders have these two things is absolutely necessary.
4. Fits Within Budget
While putting in a pool isn’t a cheap addition to any house, there are options for any budget. But the key is to have a pool building budget before you begin.
Take a look at your finances and some average prices for what you’re looking for, then come up with a number you’re comfortable with and can afford. Be upfront with any potential builders about this number.
They should be able to let you know what will and won’t fit within that budget. Also, make sure to ask about any additional fees like clean-up or services that they may tack on.
The difference in pool pricing usually comes from the type of materials used and your pool builder should be able to tell you all of your options to make the best choice.
5. Preferred Timeline
There are no guarantees in construction. Things come up all the time that create havoc on a timeline. But it’s important to know how your pool builder will handle those curveballs.
You don’t want to start building a pool in hopes of using it this summer and then have the project derailed until well into the fall.
A professional pool builder will be able to handle changes and make up time in other areas to get the project done as close to the deadline as possible.
It’s also important to know if the pool builder has a large number of projects going at the same time as that could delay work on yours.
6. Full-Service Operation
As we said earlier, building a pool is a multifaceted operation. There are all kinds of materials being used and different tasks that have to be done in a specific order. It can be a lot to oversee and manage.
This is why it’s important to make sure that the pool builder you decide to use will handle all of the various aspects of the build and installation.
Take a look at their previous projects and ask specific questions about elements you like to see if they did it all themselves.
7. References and Reviews
Possibly the very best thing you can do when hiring for any kind of construction project is to read ratings and reviews online.
These will give you an inside look at the jobs that were done and give honest feedback for the quality and workmanship. Often there are even pictures taken by the homeowner (not professionally edited) that will give you realistic expectations.
It’s also helpful to ask around in your community to see if anyone has a specific recommendation.
Building a pool is such a big deal, you don’t want to work with someone who turns out to do terrible work. Or worse, doesn’t finish the job at all. Take the time to research the company to find out their reputation.
Finding the Best Swimming Pool Builders
Adding a swimming pool to your home is a big investment that will boost your entertainment possibilities and the value of your home.
Using the right swimming pool builders will allow you to get exactly what you envisioned, in the right price range, and meet the deadlines you’ve set. The right team can make all of the difference in this kind of project.
If you’re interested in getting a pool and want to know more, contact us today to find a pool builder near you!