There’s nothing like having a party, and adding a pool to the fun makes it even better.

What Texan doesn’t love a pool party? We’re in one of the few states where it’s possible to have fun in a pool all year long! Adding heating to your pool and a heated outdoor pool house can make your pool party ready throughout the year.

A lot of your friends and neighbors already have pools. You’ll want to do something to stand out so people think your pool parties are unforgettable.

While you worry about getting the rest of your home party ready, we’ll give you some pool party ideas that’ll make your house the place to hang.

5 Pool Party Ideas People Won’t Forget

Whether you need to keep kids entertained at a party or want some time with friends, we have ideas you’ll love.

If you have an active imagination, almost anything can become a fun party theme. But if you’re running low on ideas for your house pool party, make sure to keep these in mind.

Black/White Party

You may have been to black and white events at clubs. If you apply the same theme to your pool party, you’ll throw a classy and stylish soiree that’s simple to pull off.

When you send out invites, tell everyone to wear black or white swimsuits. Some people ask men to dress and black and women to dress in white or vice versa.

This theme is easy for your guests to participate in and people will look gorgeous and coordinated in your photos!

Beach Bum Party

When you can’t go to the beach, it’s time to bring the beach to you! If you’re in need a fun pool party idea, make it beach themed.

Put some beach chairs on the lawn and set up a volleyball net in the pool. Go the extra mile and see if you can find some fun Hawaiian shirts at a local thrift store to complete your beach look.

Winter Wonderland

Everyone is going to be throwing the same boring Christmas party. Why not spice yours up by making it a pool party too?

Some simple winter maintenance and a heated pool can help you throw a warm and fun Christmas party. Be sure to keep your pool warm and to give your guests somewhere to warm up if the outdoor air is a little chilly.

If you want to cool down during some of the hottest summer days, consider having Christmas in July or August. This theme can work all year!

Party Under The Stars

When the heat sets in during the summer it can be hard to want to swim during the day. Why not enjoy some hot summer nights by having a pool party after dark?

Line your backyard with some Christmas lights, set up some torches, and have a fun night in the pool with your friends.

If you have some interest in getting an up-close look at the stars, be sure to buy or rent a telescope so your guests can stargaze.

Backyard Olympics

This is a great party theme if you plan on having plenty of kid attendees. Turning your backyard into an Olympic arena with your pool as the center attraction can be fun for people of all ages.

Make your games water-themed so everyone stays cool and wet. Have races down slip and slides and do a water balloon toss. If you have some fast swimmers in your friend group, set up some races to see who’s the best!

Upgrade Your Pool

With all of these potential pool party ideas, you’ll want your pool to be party ready at all times.

Whether your pool could use a makeover or some routine maintenance, we’re here to help. Sign up for our free consultation so we can talk about the best way to meet your pool needs.

So, after all these years, you’re finally going to do it. You’re going to have a pool installed.

Congrats! You’re making a decision will give your family years of fun, exercise, and relaxation.

Have you thought about the design you like? What about freshwater vs. saltwater? Have you found a pool contractor yet?

If you’ve answered “no,” to the first two questions, we hope you answered the same way to the third. A pool contractor can help you make all those important decisions and more.

In this guide, we’re filling you in on five things to look for when hiring a pool contractor for your build.

1. What’s Their Address?

They say you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover. But, when it comes to a swimming pool builder, you actually should.

There are stories across the country about people getting ripped off by pool contractors. While there are far more companies who are honest and have high integrity, there are some very bad apples in the bunch.

Don’t hire a swimming pool contractor you find on Craigslist offering a deal that’s too good to be true. It usually is.

Instead, find a contractor with a physical address (not P.O. box). This at least lets you know they have an actual building they’re working out of.

You want a contractor that will give you an estimate after they’ve been to your property and seen the space you’re working with. If a pool contractor gives you a price over the phone sight unseen? Move on.

2. How Long Have They Been in Business?

Not every pool professional has owned their company for decades. Some professionals worked for another builder for years and decided to branch off on their own recently.

Don’t ask them how long the company’s been in business. Ask them about their experience in designing and building pools.

How many pools have they built in their career? How many in the last year? Do they have a portfolio they can show you?

How knowledgeable are they? Can they give you advice for making and keeping your pool safe?

If you get any red flags when you’re talking to them, follow your gut — it’s trying to tell you something.

3. Ask for References

When you ask for their portfolio, ask them for a client list or a list of references. If they’re on the up and up, they’ll have no qualms giving you names.

Also, find out what their BBB rating is. Do they have any certifications from the CPO or CPI?

Any reputable contractor will be more than willing to share this information with you.

4. Read the Fine Print

Scammers operate under the guise of being a legit business. They’ll tell you anything you want to hear to get your money.

The Texas Attorney General warns about signing contracts that aren’t complete or have blank spaces. They also advise that you read every line of the contract especially the fine print.

Did you know that a contractor can put a lien on your property? It’s true — if they fail to pay, you’re responsible.

That’s why you should always read everything you sign — twice.

5. Read Reviews

Sounds simple enough, right? When it comes to an investment like a pool, people are going to share their opinions about the job.

They’ll explain what went wrong and how the contractor amended the issue. They’ll tell you if they feel they got ripped off. They’ll also talk about all the wonderful things they liked about the contractor.

So, make sure you read reviews. You’ll see the good, bad, and everything in-between.

Find the Best Pool Contractor in Katy, TX Today

It’s easy to get swept away by their promises of an aquatic paradise.

A reputable pool builder will help you through the process. They’ll answer your questions, help with the design choices, and offer helpful suggestions.

If you’re ready to sit down with a professional pool contractor with hundreds of pools in their portfolio and five-star reviews, give us a call.

But don’t take our word for. Check out what our happy customers have to say.

Are considering putting a pool on your property?

If so, you probably already know there are many styles, sizes, price ranges, and options to choose from. Not all pools are created equal, and since they are an investment, it pays to do your homework in advance. This way, you know you’re getting the best pool that your family will get to enjoy for years.

Here’s a helpful resource to help you decide what type of swimming pool to add your property!

Above-Ground Pools

A common pool style is an above-ground pool. Above-ground pools put pool ownership within reach for more people, as they have a lower price tag than most other types of pools. They are also portable, so they can be a smart option for a family that intends to move.

The drawback to these pools is that they simply don’t last indefinitely. The materials that allow them to be less expensive and portable mean they don’t stand the test of time.

In-Ground Pools

If you’re looking for a fully customizable pool that will last, in-ground is the way to go. In-ground pools are a great investment, and with the right maintenance and care, you’ll have years of enjoyment.

In-ground pools are customizable to your needs. You have say over the shape, depth, plaster color, and look of the pool. They can be outdoors, indoors, or partially covered.

Points to consider are the price and your property. Since they are considerably more labor intensive than an above-ground pool and require professional installations, they will cost more. They also require a certain amount of space in your yard.

Lap Pool

Perhaps a less-common but still useful and enjoyable pool style is the lap pool. This long, narrow, in-ground pool is used primarily for exercise. They aren’t as useful for recreation, but they also have a smaller footprint on your property.

They are certainly worth considering if your intended use is exercise and you don’t have a need for a full-sized pool.

Spa

If relaxing is the name of your pool game, a spa might be a great choice. These smaller, hot-tub style pools are perfect for decks or sunrooms. In addition to being relaxing, the warm water can be great for sore joints and muscles.

They are more affordable than large pools and don’t need much space, making them a great option for urban lots.

Due to their size, however, they won’t allow for much recreational use or water exercise, however.

Natural Pool

When it comes to different types of pools, you may not have considered the natural pool.

They are becoming a more popular and viable pool option. Natural pools use plants and other biological materials to clean the water instead of chlorine and other chemicals. This means they are better for the environment (and easier on your skin!).

Natural pools can also be truly beautiful and serene places, as they are often constructed in organic shapes that mimic a natural pond.

The drawback to these pools is that they are not cheap. They also require a good amount of upkeep to keep the water properly clean and filtered.

Still Wondering What Type of Swimming Pool Is Best for You?

This list is really just a portion of the options and styles you might consider when pool shopping. If you’re in the Katy, Texas-area and are pool shopping, get in touch with our experts.

We’d love to provide you with a free consultation where we can discuss your needs and help you select the right type of swimming pool. Get in touch today!

Summertime means a lot of great things. Ice cream. Road trips. Barbecues. One thing that’s on everyone’s must-do list for summer is going swimming.

But going out to the beach can be a real hassle. You’ve got to load up the family in the car and fight traffic. Plus,  the ocean water is often too cold, and then you get sand everywhere.

Public pools can be a little iffy. Plus, public pools are only open at certain times.

It only makes sense to put in your own pool. After all, 10.4 million pool owners can’t be wrong.

But should you go with above or in-ground? We’re going to break down the pros and cons of having an above ground vs. in-ground pool.

Cost

Let’s get the big question out of the way: what’s it going to cost. Putting in a pool isn’t going to be cheap, but it can be affordable.

An in-ground pool will cost on average a little over $20,000. Depending on the materials needed and what size you want, the cost goes up from there.

Above ground pools have an advantage here. You can purchase one for around $2,000.

Set Up

Here’s another example where an above ground pool is the better option – or so it seems.

With an above ground pool there’s some minor assembly, but after that, you’re good to go. An in ground pool is a definite project.

Here’s the thing: in-ground pools are way more durable. While the cost and set up might be more up front, it will last you a lot longer.

Style

Let’s face it: above ground pools aren’t pretty. They stick out in your backyard and they come in very limited sizes and shapes.

With an in ground pool, the sky is the limit when it comes to looks. While you can splurge and make any shape you want or get something stylish like an infinity pool, even a basic in ground pool instantly makes your backyard look better.

Functionality

If you want a plain old swimming hole, the above ground pool is the way to go. Set it up and start swimming.

And in ground pool, however, can be adapted to your lifestyle. There’s a myriad of different styles and functions that you can work with.

For example, if you want to use the pool just for exercise, you can create a shorter lap pool. Do a lot of entertaining? Install a swim up bar in your pool or put in a hot tub.

Above Ground VS. In-Ground Pool: Make Your Choice

Looking forward to the many physical and mental health benefits of swimming or you’re just looking to have some fun? In-ground is the clear winner in the above ground vs. in-ground pool debate.

While above ground has a few good positives, in-ground is the way to go for a long-lasting, customized, stylish choice.

Ready to put in your in-ground pool? Let’s talk!

Our team of experienced pool pros are ready to help you make a splash. Contact us today!