Instead of spending another year shuttling back and forth to the local pool, it may be time to talk to pool contractors about having one installed in your own backyard. Having a pool put in is a major project, though, and you want to be sure to hire the best pool builder possible for the job.
Why You Should Hire a Contractor for Your Pool Project
While there has been a lot of talk on the internet about homeowners building their own pools, there are plenty of reasons you should hire a contractor.
They Have Experience
Pool builders generally have years of experience in designing and installing custom pools. That is something that most homeowners simply can’t say.
When there are aspects of the project, they cannot complete in-house, they know which professionals to use to get it done right the first time. Put that experience to work for you by finding a reputable contractor to complete your pool project.
They Can Save You Money
You may not realize it, but a good pool contractor will help you save money on the project. They get discounts on supplies and equipment because they use them all the time.
Remember that experience? Contractors will use it to save money by knowing exactly which steps of your project should be completed when.
They will ensure that the work is completed on time, make sure all necessary permits are in place, and schedule inspections to be performed as work progresses. Having to take out part of your new pool because you didn’t have an inspection performed can add a substantial amount to your overall cost.
11 Characteristics of Great Pool Contractors
Finding the right pool contractor for your needs isn’t always a simple task. It doesn’t have to be overwhelming and stressful, either. Great contractors will share some of the same qualities. When you need to hire a pool builder, keep an eye out for these 12 characteristics:
1. They Are Licensed and Insured
Every state has different requirements for building contractors, but all have some sort of licensing rules. They should carry insurance, too. It protects both you and them in the case of an accident. If a builder refuses or is unable to provide you with a copy of their license and proof of professional insurance, you should keep looking.
2. They Can Give You Real References
Don’t be fooled by contractors that give you a list of references and past customer testimonials without putting you in touch with those customers. A reputable and trustworthy contractor will be glad to give you reliable references that you can actually check.
You may not need to check other references if your friends or neighbors have had work done by a specific contractor. Maybe seeing their work firsthand is the reason you reached out to them in the first place.
If you are thinking of adding a pool to your yard, talk to people you know who have had one installed recently. Ask what they liked (and didn’t) about their contractor and if they would recommend them for work.
3. Their Staff Members Are Professionally Trained
There are professional standards in the pool industry, and the best contractors will have undergone training to understand them. They will also uphold those standards in their construction practices and equipment choices.
4. They Have a Showroom You Can Visit
You can visualize all day, but actually seeing a pool firsthand is a much easier way to get a feel for features, size, and the overall impression it leaves. Look for a pool contractor that has a showroom where you can see full-sized pools that represent their work.
5. Their Contractors Are Part of Your Community
The best contractors will be active members of your community. They live there, work there, and give back. After all, when you regularly see your contractor at parent-teacher nights or little league games, you have an amount of trust that is hard to grant to an outsider.
Another key advantage of using a local contractor is that they will know the regulations and codes for your area. That saves you time and money during the permitting and inspection processes.
6. They Have Won Local, Regional, and National Awards
Design and construction awards are given out annually at virtually every level. Find out what awards, if any, potential pool builders have won. The bigger the stage it’s won on, the more prestige and value it has, so national awards carry a lot of weight in this category.
Beyond awards, look for recognition among trade groups like Aquatech and publications like Pool & Spa Magazine. Certification by national and state building associations can help put your mind at ease and let you know the company follows industry best practices.
7. They Keep you Involved Throughout the Design Process
The best contractors won’t take your ideas and then run with them. They will keep you involved throughout the entire process, from idea conception to finishing the last details.
This is especially important with custom designs, since you may encounter delays or other setbacks that require your input.
8. They Utilize Cutting Edge Technology
While it is certainly fine to jot your ideas down on a piece of paper, today’s contractors know that technology is a vital tool in the design process. Expect to see 3D renderings of your design so you get a better idea of how the finished pool will actually look.
9. They Make It Easy to Communicate
While you aren’t expected to learn all the pool industry lingo, you do want to be able to communicate with your contractor. That means you need someone who listens to your ideas, answers your questions, and is willing to go over even the smallest detail with you.
10. They Offer Financing Services
If you are like most people, you will be financing at least part of your new pool project. Most reputable pool builders will help you arrange for that financing. Keeping it as part of the total project streamlines the process and helps keep your construction timeline on track.
11. They Can Service and Warranty Your New Pool
What happens once your pool is in the ground? For some people, this is where the relationship with their pool builder ends. But you don’t have to settle for that.
Instead, look for a builder with a dedicated service department. Look for one that can offer routine maintenance services as well as perform repairs. It’s even better if they can perform warranty service on the components of your new pool, just in case something isn’t working properly.
Find the Right Contractor to Design and Build Your New Pool
Now that you know what to look for in a great contractor, it’s time to get started designing your new pool. Contact our professional and experienced staff at Pleasure Pools in Mandeville. We will work with you to find the right combination of features and design elements to build yourself a backyard oasis you can enjoy for years to come.
