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Are you looking to invest in a swimming pool? While it is tempting to relish your decision at the moment and search through an endless list of contractors to obtain estimates, you don’t want to look back with regret.
Not all pool installation companies are alike. In this article, we will discuss the top 8 errors to watch out for before buying a pool.
8 Common Mistakes to Avoid
Pools can be a relaxing and rewarding investment. However, before making that initial decision, you must educate yourself before moving forward. Search for companies that will teach you about what you need—not someone just interested in the sale.
1. Avoid pool shopping before determining your budget
Your overall price is determined by the following:
- Style
- Surface (vinyl or concrete)
- Size and shape (oval, round, rectangular or custom shape)
- landscaping
Yet, the costs continue beyond there. You need to budget for annual expenses for maintaining the pool. You must factor in the following:
- Increases in home insurance
- Opening costs, maintenance, and closing costs
- Electricity and gas / propane
- Equipment that requires regular replacement
All these items must be considered before going forward with hiring contractors. You can quickly be in debt if you are unaware of overall costs. Plus, amenities like tanning ledges, bubblers, and various upgrades will cost extra. It is best to plan a budget before making any investment.
2. Not checking contractor history
When checking out contractors, you will need answers to the following questions:
- What are your qualifications for building a swimming pool?
- Do you have formal training, or are you certified? Where is the certification from? Is it a reputable institution?
- Can you show me other projects you have completed?
- What references can you provide? Can I call them?
All pools will not be built equally, and most of what can cause issues are what is unseen.
You may also want to consider this adage, “If you think hiring a professional is expensive, wait until you employ an amateur!” Ensuring you’re working with a reputed “swimming pool contractor” will save you a lot of time and money down the road.
3. Buying based solely on price
If the cost appears too good to be true, it likely is. If you look at the price alone, you will be disappointed. Be aware of bait-and-switch tactics that some swimming pool companies use to lure you, so do your research.
Call references, look at online testimonials, and see what others say. If someone is displeased, you will know about it online. While you can dismiss one person’s comments, several with the same experience are hard to ignore.
4. Shopping over the phone
Providing an accurate quote on the phone is impossible but will give you a ballpark so you know where pricing starts.
Schedule a consultation for a detailed estimate. Visiting their business will provide information on the business type and potential reputation.
Examine their website for possible stock images. Images should be of pools they constructed—not of stock photos. Stock photos should raise another red flag that they aren’t who they claim to be.
Pool installation companies you can trust will proudly advertise their past work through gallery photos so you can feel confident in the quality of the work they will do for you.
5. Not considering safety
While pools are a great relaxation spot and can provide exercise, if not installed correctly, they can equally be dangerous. Know what your city requires when it comes to fencing and barriers. Fencing not only protects your children, but others as well. Children have the capability of wandering anywhere. The last place you want them to go is an open pool.
Most locations specify that homeowners must have a fence around the pool’s perimeter. Barriers are recommended even if regulation does not require them. It just makes common sense. Ensuring accessories (slides and diving boards) are installed to all codes and regulations.
6. Focusing on appearance, not the mechanics
Pools are customizable projects created by several trades and different pool standards. As previously mentioned, they are not generated equally. Thus, what you are unaware of can impact your costs.
Flow rates, hydraulic designs, pipe size, chemical management systems, pump/filter type, and other factors will affect how sanitized the pool remains. They will impact operational costs and the time spent seasonally maintaining the pool.
You can go over any questions you have with your contractor to ensure the pool they install for you meets your needs, not just for recreation but for maintenance as well.
7. Not reading your contract
It is crucial that you understand what you are receiving from the contractor. If you want something turnkey, ensure all your steps are covered. You must know if concrete, electrical, gravel backfill, and hauling dirt are included.
Ensure they provide everything in writing and not given as a verbal promise. You can deny an oral contract, but those contained in writing will stand up in court.
If the contractor provides a verbal promise, get it in writing. Contracts are challenging to cancel after three-day rescission times. A written agreement protects both parties.
8. Analysis paralysis
Analysis paralysis happens when you become overwhelmed by examining all the variables. Indecision occurs when you obtain over 10 swimming pool estimates and need help deciding whom to go with as the information becomes confusing.
Doing your research beforehand and looking for 3-4 estimates from a reputable company will allow you to make an easier decision.
Let Solda Pools Build Your Backyard Oasis
If you’re tired of searching through lists of pool installation companies to find the best one, allow Solda Pools to put an end to your search. At Solda Pools, we strive to meet your budget while providing high-quality construction solutions and design.
We will work with you to confirm every detail and ensure everything is understood throughout the process.
You can contact Solda Pools at 905-796-6500 for an estimate, or visit our website here. We look forward to exceeding your expectations.
