Last Updated on October 18, 2021
Choosing a pool contractor to build or install your swimming pool is a big decision that’s why we’ve prepared this for you and compiled the right questions to ask pool builders.
After all, this is a home amenity that you hope to enjoy for years to come. Do not let yourself be swayed merely by price- you could regret it later.
Instead, take time and be thoughtful when it comes to reviewing and researching potential pool builders
Keep these tips in mind when selecting the right contractor for your pool:
- Keep an eye out in your neighborhood for pools that appeal to you- and then ask who installed them. Simple word of mouth from family and friends can be an effective way to get referrals.
- Check the local pool companies on the Better Business Bureau’s website to determine what customers’ experiences have been.
- Ask about other pools that they may be working on at the same time as yours. This may help teas -out how busy the company is, as well as whether your pool will be completed by your timeframe.
- Do not forget to ask if the contractor is fully insured and bonded- so you are not on the hook in the event of accidents, injuries, or damages.
8 Questions To Ask Pool Builders Before Signing With Them
Next, narrow down your ‘pool’ of contractors before you commit to hiring one by asking these questions:
What is Your Experience?
Try to avoid hiring a contractor that has little to no experience with backyard pools. Remember- this is a big home investment; make sure that you hire someone with the expertise to get the job done right. After all, if you can’t swim in your pool, it is literally just a big hole in your backyard!
Ask around to find names of qualified builders that have installed pools in your neighborhood.
Do You Have Pictures Available of Your Work?
Your pool contractor should be proud and prepared to produce pictures of their work. In fact, they should offer a portfolio on their website or social media pages. Look at the types of swimming pools that they have installed to note any signature characteristics of each- as well as any distinctions that set them apart from other pool-building businesses in the region.
Does the Contract Cover Everything Necessary to Complete the Job?
Review the contract and ask outright if the agreement covers everything that is required and necessary for your pool. You do not want any unexpected issues or costs later on. Be aware of what is and is not going to be delivered by the contractor for the agreed-upon price.
Do You Hire Subcontractors?
Another thing to specifically ask your pool builder is whether or not they will be hiring subcontractors to work on your swimming pool. Since there are many varied elements involved in the installation process, it is likely they will hire out for some tasks, such as electrical work for pool lights or a concrete mason for deck fire pits and other pool features.
Ask for the names and credentials of these subcontractors if they are going to be working on your property.
Will You Demonstrate How to Clean and Treat the Pool?
Make sure that you know whether your contractor is going to offer up some help when it comes to how you clean and treats your pool before they leave you on your own. Many pool builders simply come and install your pool- after that, you are on your own.
It can help to have something mentioned in the contract pertaining to information and demonstration of how to maintain the pool- particularly if you have equipment like salt generators to figure out.
Do You Have Customer References?
A company that is in the business of installing pools most certainly should have some customer references or testimonials to provide to prospective buyers. Check online ranks, ratings on Google, and reviews to see if most customers are satisfied and recommend this pool contractor to others contemplating a new swimming pool.
If you cannot find customer feedback, you may want to look further for someone to build your pool.
Does the Pool Come with a Warranty?
You need to fully understand what kind of a guarantee or warranty your new pool has; what will you do if something does not work? Who do you call?
This information is critical to satisfaction after the sale, and your contractor should be willing to take time to discuss the various warranty options available and what you need to do to obtain assistance if you encounter an issue with your new pool or its components.
Will the Pool be Energy-Efficient?
Before you decide on a size and style for your pool, ask your pool contractor about energy-efficient options. This will curb the hike in monthly energy costs to operate your pool- and could reduce your carbon footprint on the environment.
Discuss with the contractor about green materials, technology, and alternatives to make your pool as efficient as possible- the savings on utility costs may help pay for your pool over time!
When Will the Pool be Ready for Swimming?
That is, how long do you think it will take to build the swimming pool, from start to finish? This is an important question as often the pool contractor and client have very different expectations and may have misunderstood or miscommunicated timelines. A pool is no quick and simple task; often, contractors must rely on subcontractors and weather- both of which may be unpredictable.
Never underestimate the value of your instinct when it comes to choosing your pool contractor. Sometimes, you simply get a feeling from a builder that he can- or cannot- be trusted to do the job to your satisfaction. Also, keep yourself safe with these tips:
- Get everything in writing. Never work with a contractor that is not willing to provide you with a written estimate and contract.
- Ask your pool contractor about their qualifications before they begin to commence work on your pool. Make sure that you see proof of their insurance.
- Read your estimate, contracts, and agreements carefully. Do not ever sign without thoroughly reviewing and understanding what you are given.
When it comes to making the final decision for your swimming pool contractor, trust your gut. If you feel uneasy, do not commit to anything and keep looking!
Frequently Asked Questions About Pool Construction
What kind of unexpected issues can come up when building a pool?
Often bad weather can cause serious delays in your pool installation; the hole that is dug for your pool is vulnerable to water, rain, and weather- and it could wreak havoc with your timeline. Heavy rain can cause the walls of the dug hole to cave in, creating sludge and mud in your excavated pool.
When the weather is windy, it can cause problems for the finish and surface of your new pool, too. It can cause issues with the plaster and blow debris on your smooth, pristine surfacing. Typically, builders will wait and delay work on your pool until the weather is calm and dry, for best results. Again, these unexpected issues can cause serious delays when building a pool.
Do you tip your pool builder?
Most building contractors do not expect or anticipate a tip for a job well done. However, if you are hiring a pool service company to clean and chemically treat your pool for you, it is customary to give a tip for satisfactory service, usually around 20%.
How do you negotiate with a pool builder?
The best way to negotiate or ‘haggle’ with pool contractors is to request an estimate in writing, with a specific breakdown of the costs and prices for your pool.
It helps to obtain these quotes from more than one builder so that you can do some cost comparisons to gain leverage during the negotiation process. Consider fluctuations in materials cost and billable hours to agree on an incentive or discount that sweetens your deal.
Contractors that are not willing to provide you with a detailed estimate are not the right builders for your swimming pool.
How Long Does it Take to Build a Swimming Pool?
Typically, it takes two-to-three weeks to install a vinyl inground pool, but concrete pools can take closer to six-to-eight weeks, on average. Plan for custom pools or complex designs to take considerably longer. Some other factors that can delay your pool installation are weather, size, and the builder’s overall experience.
Use these tips to know what to ask pool builders when hiring a company for your new swimming pool. Also, know the questions to ask yourself regarding why you want a pool at this time as well as what your distinct preferences are; this will help guarantee that you are satisfied with the outcome- as well as with your new pool!
Building a new pool is appealing to me. Thanks for the list of questions to ask about a pool. I’ll be sure to find a contractor to build my pool.