With swimming being the fifth most popular outdoor activity in the country, it’s no wonder that many homeowners are choosing to have a pool in their own backyard. What better way to cool off, get some laps in, and enjoy the outdoors than in the privacy of your own swimming pool.
Learning how to build an inground pool isn’t something you should attempt on your own. You’ll want to hire a construction builder to tackle the project for you.
If building your own pool is something that’s been in your mind, but you’ve felt overwhelmed, don’t worry. This guide will go over everything you need to know about hiring a pool builder.
Things to Keep in Mind When Planning for a Pool
Pool construction is an investment. You want to be sure you take the proper considerations before connecting with a pool builder in your area.
The Cost to Build a Pool
The average cost to build a pool depends on a variety of factors. This includes the type, design, and size of the pool.
An above-ground pool is installed instead of being built, so the cost is a bit more economical. This is because they don’t need any filtration equipment, which can run up to $1,000. If you want extras, like accessories and decking, that’ll cost more.
The construction and design costs result in in-ground pools being more expensive. A smaller in-ground pool that has minimal landscaping and patio surrounding starts at around $20,000. The more elaborate the design, the more costly it’ll be.
How Long Does It Take to Build a Pool?
Expect the construction of your in-ground pool to take from three to 12 weeks. How complex the project is will determine how long it’ll take. You can expect your backyard to be dug up and filled with dirt for an extended period of time, but it’s well worth the wait.
Size of Pool Needed
How big you want your pool is a personal choice. Some people don’t mind getting rid of the grass in their backyard and fill it with a patio and pool. Others want to incorporate some grassy areas into their new backyard.
When working with your pool builder, ensure that you have the most recent building and zoning restrictions for pools in your area. The builder should also know how the pool permit process works for your city and county.
Zoning is handled locally and will include the following items:
- Barriers and fencing
- Proximity to electric and utility lines
- Set-backs
- Depth requirements needed for diving boards
There might be other issues covered under the zoning umbrella, so be sure to review your local ordinances. Again, a professional pool building company will have most of this information at the ready.
Evaluate Your Yard Conditions
Besides looking at what size of pool you can install based on how big your yard is, you’ll also want to consider the topography. This includes:
- Accessibility for various construction equipment
- Soil type
- Your yard’s slope
A qualified pool builder will be well versed in how to make any type of yard work for a pool by using the latest technology. However, rocky soil, limited access, and a steep lot will need special construction. This can affect the length of the installation and the overall cost.
Factors to Consider When Hiring a Pool Contractor
Now that you’re prepared for the process of building a pool in your backyard, it’s time to figure out how to determine who’s the best contractor for the job. Keep the below items in mind when hiring a pool builder.
Down Payment Amount
A reputable pool builder will ask between 10 to 20% for the down payment, with 10% being the standard. If a pool builder asks you to pay more than that, that may be a sign of a struggling company with poor cash flow. This also could indicate that they don’t have enough cash to pay their subcontractors and employees.
Fast Contract Signing
Be wary if a pool contractor wants to sign a contract in your first consultation. It doesn’t always mean they’re a risky choice, so don’t necessarily make it a deal-breaker. The bottom line is you shouldn’t feel pressured to sign a contract during your first meeting, especially if they haven’t visited your property yet.
Get Everything in Writing
If your contractor or salesperson makes any claims or promises that’ll affect the construction, warranty, or purchase of the pool, get that in writing. Any reputable pool builder should be completely comfortable backing any claim they make to you.
Ask for References and Referrals
Inquire after customer referrals or references and ask to see pools that they’ve built. Contact the individuals they provide and ask them how the pool building experience went for them. Be sure to ask how it went before, during, and after the installation.
Another question you should ask potential pool builders is how many pools they’ve installed in the past year. Referrals from newer customers can give you a better idea about how the process went for them.
Be Mindful of New Pool Builders
Every business has to begin somewhere, so being new on the scene isn’t necessarily a bad sign. However, around 20% of new businesses fail within the first year of opening their doors.
To help reduce any financial risk, explore working with a company that’s been in the business for at least five years. However, if a new company is the only drawback, don’t dismiss them right out the gate. Being in the business for multiple years doesn’t always equate to being a good pool builder.
Partner With a Qualified Construction Builder for Your Pool
Having a pool installed is a major investment. You should connect with an expert construction builder to ensure the process goes as smoothly as possible.
Contact Sahara Construction and Custom Pools for a free consultation.
