Installing a swimming pool in your backyard can transform your outdoor living space and provide years of enjoyment. However, finding the right pool installation company is key to ensuring your pool is properly constructed and you have a positive experience throughout the process. There are several factors to consider when selecting the best pool installation company for your project.
Licenses and Insurance
The pool installation company you choose should be fully licensed, bonded, and insured. Ask to see their contractor’s license and confirm it is valid and current in your state. This helps ensure they meet all legal requirements. Request a copy of their general liability insurance and workers’ compensation coverage as well. This protects you in case there are injuries or property damage during construction. Reputable firms will have no issue providing documentation of proper credentials.
Experience and Track Record
Look for a pool builder with an extensive track record installing the type and size of pool you want in your local area. Ask how long they have been in business and how many similar projects they have completed. A company that has installed hundreds of pools over a decade in business is likely to have the expertise to handle your build properly. Be sure to ask for references from recent customers you can contact as well. This helps confirm the quality of their work.
Range of Pool Types
Not all pool installation companies have experience with specialty pool types like infinity edge or natural swimming pools. If you want a more customized pool, look for a builder with expertise in that specific type of construction. Ask to see examples of other projects they have done that are similar to what you want. A company that focuses on customized work will be able to properly execute unique design elements.
Quality of Materials and Supplies
The best pool builders use top-quality materials from reputable suppliers. Ask about the brands and types of pumps, filters, diving boards and other supplies they install. High-end brands like Hayward, Pentair, and Jandy indicate you are getting premium components. Also, find out if they offer any warranties on the products they use and their workmanship. At minimum, all parts should be guaranteed for defects for 1-2 years.
Full-Service Options
Look for a pool company that can not only install your pool but also handle the design, permitting, and landscaping around the pool. A firm that provides in-house design consulting can help customize your pool for your yard. They will also be familiar with local permitting requirements to ensure your pool meets code. Full-service firms can also coordinate landscaping, patios, and fencing so your entire backyard gets transformed.
3D Design Renderings
Reputable pool builders will provide 3D design renderings before construction begins so you can visualize how your pool will look. This helps you tweak the shape, tile patterns, rock waterfalls and other elements during the planning phase. Ensure the company uses professional design software to create detailed renderings you can rely on, not just hand sketches. Viewing designs in 3D format gives you greater creative input.
Regular Project Updates
From permitting to excavation to final inspection, your pool project takes time. Choose a builder who provides regular updates on each phase of the process so you know what is happening. They should contact you at least weekly with progress reports and let you know if any delays occur. Good communication ensures you stay informed and are part of decision-making when needed.
Fair, Competitive Pricing
Obtain quotes from at least three pool installation companies so you can make accurate price comparisons. Beware of estimates that seem too low – extremely cheap bids often indicate lower quality workmanship. Look for fair market pricing for your area. Ask what is included in the quote as well – some companies leave out key parts like excavation and permits. Choose a bid that is competitively priced but not the absolute lowest.
Membership in Trade Organizations
Professional pool builders often belong to organizations like the National Pool & Spa Institute or United Pool & Spa Association. Membership indicates a commitment to quality work and keeping up with the latest industry standards. Ask if the company belongs to any trade groups and check that their membership is current. Their involvement helps give you confidence in their reputation.
Choosing the right pool installation company for your project takes research. Take time to thoroughly evaluate multiple firms to find the best match for your needs. With the proper builder, you can enjoy a smooth installation process and a high-quality backyard pool designed for years of fun.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pool Installation Companies
Installing a swimming pool is a major project that requires finding the right pool builder. Here are answers to some of the most common questions homeowners have when researching pool installation companies.
How much does it cost to install a pool?
The average cost to install an inground pool is $35,000 to $60,000 depending on the size, design, and materials used. Small plunge pools can cost as little as $15,000 while large custom pools with water features can be $100,000 or more. Get quotes from several builders to compare pricing.
What questions should I ask potential pool companies?
Ask about their licensing, insurance, experience with your type of pool, brands of materials used, full-service offerings, design process, communication style, trade affiliations, and what is included in their quote. Reputable firms will answer thoroughly.
What is the process for installing a pool?
The steps include design, permitting, excavation and site prep, shell installation, adding plumbing and drains, electrical work, interior finish like tile, constructing decks, final grading and landscaping. Installation typically takes 3-5 months total.
Should I hire a pool installer local to my area?
It’s preferable to hire a local company familiar with zoning laws and soil conditions in your region. They will also have relationships with inspectors to facilitate permitting. A pool builder active in your area is ideal.
What should be included in a pool quote?
A detailed quote should cover all labor and materials including demolition, excavation, shell, waterlines, electrical, decking, fencing, permitting fees, and inspections. Obtain an itemized list with line items for each part of the job.
Is a cheaper quote always better when selecting a pool company?
No – extremely low bids often indicate lower quality workmanship or materials. Be wary of quotes well below competitors. Look for fair market pricing and a bid that covers what you want built. Don’t just choose the cheapest option.
What questions should I ask for references from other pool customers?
Ask references about their overall satisfaction, quality of materials, adherence to the project timeline, communication, cleanup practices, and if there were any change orders or cost overruns. Their experiences help indicate what to expect.
How can I finance the cost of a new pool installation?
Many homeowners get pool financing through home equity loans or lines of credit. Your pool builder may also offer financing options. Compare borrowing rates to choose the most affordable financing method.
Should I sign a contract before work begins?
Yes, always sign a detailed contract covering costs, payment schedule, project timeline, warranties, and contingency plans. Ensure you understand all terms and guarantees before signing. Don’t proceed without a contract.
How can I avoid common problems with pool installation?
Carefully vet companies, inspect references, only use licensed and insured firms, get everything in writing, review contracts thoroughly, document work with photos, avoid large upfront payments, and address any issues immediately to prevent bigger problems.
Key Factors When Selecting a Pool Installation Company
Installing a custom swimming pool is a major home renovation project that requires finding the right contractor. Use the following list of key factors when evaluating pool builders to choose the best company for your pool installation:
- Licensing – Confirm the pool company is fully licensed and insured in your state. Request documentation.
- Experience – Ask how many years the company has been installing pools and look for extensive experience with your type of pool.
- Portfolio – Review examples of other pools the company has installed locally that match what you want.
- Materials – Ask about the brands and types of equipment and supplies used. Opt for premium quality components.
- Offerings – Look for a company that provides design, landscaping, fencing and other services beyond just pool construction.
- Renderings – Have the builder show you 3D design renderings of your pool so you can visualize the finished project.
- Communication – Select a company that provides regular progress updates and customer service.
- Price – Compare bids from 3 companies. Avoid the cheapest quote if it seems too good to be true.
- Reputation – Check reviews and confirm they are in good standing with organizations like the NSPI.
Taking time to carefully evaluate pool installation contractors using these criteria helps ensure you choose the right pool company for a smooth process and quality outcome. Investing in research on the front end provides peace of mind during the build.
Questions to Ask Local Pool Companies Before Hiring
Building a swimming pool is a complex project that requires finding an experienced pool contractor you can trust. Use this list of questions when interviewing local pool companies to help select the right pool builder:
- How long have you been installing pools in my area? Look for 5+ years of local experience.
- Are you licensed, bonded, and insured? Request documentation for proof.
- What type of pools do you specialize in? Look for expertise in your style of pool.
- What brands of pumps, filters, and other supplies do you use? Opt for reputable top-tier brands.
- Can you provide 3D design renderings before we start? Quality builders offer detailed visualizations.
- What is your typical process and timeline? Expect 2-4 months from start to finish.
- How often will you contact me with updates? Look for at least weekly communication.
- Do you pull required permits for the project? They should handle permitting for you.
- What is your warranty on materials and labor? At least 1 year, longer is better.
- Can you provide references from recent customers? Talk to 3-5 past clients.
- Do you belong to any professional organizations? Membership indicates commitment to quality.
- Are there any additional fees not in your estimate? Avoid companies tacking on hidden charges.
Thoroughly screening local pool builders with these questions helps you find the right company for the job. Take time to research to get a quality installation.
Warning Signs of an Unreliable Pool Installation Company
While most pool contractors are reputable, be on the lookout for these red flags when researching companies that could indicate an unreliable or inexperienced builder:
- Cannot provide license/insurance documentation
- No examples of past work to show
- Very short time in business, less than 2-3 years
- No direct experience with your type of pool
- Uses low-end equipment brands
- Does not offer design renderings
- Is not familiar with local permitting
- Has no online reviews or mostly negative feedback
- Does not belong to any trade organizations
- Bad Better Business Bureau rating
- Quotes significantly lower price than competitors
- Requests large upfront deposit
- No written contract required
- Cannot provide references from past clients
- Is evasive answering questions
If you notice any of these warning signs, it is best to keep looking. Vet companies thoroughly and always trust your instincts if something seems off to avoid hiring an unreliable pool builder.
Researching Local Pool Companies Online
The internet is a helpful tool when researching local pool builders. Here are tips for using online resources to evaluate companies:
- Website – Visit their website to view photos of past work, bios on key staff, services offered, and testimonials. A professional site indicates an established company.
- Reviews – Check third-party review sites like Yelp and HomeAdvisor for feedback from past customers on quality, timeliness, pricing, and overall service. Look for consistently positive reviews.
- BBB Rating – Look up their Business Bureau rating. Reputable firms maintain an A+ or A rating by resolving complaints quickly.
- Social Media – Browse their Facebook, Instagram, or other social accounts. Active pages with photos of in-process and completed pools is a good sign.
- Industry Sites – See if they are listed on industry resource sites like PoolResearch.com and other directories relevant to your area. Presence on these sites adds legitimacy.
- Search Results – Conduct a basic Google search for the company name and scan the first few pages of results. Many positive mentions indicate a good reputation.
Thorough online vetting makes it easier to evaluate pool builders. Cross-reference what you find with customer referrals to make an informed hiring decision.
Questions to Ask References to Evaluate a Pool Company
Checking references is an important step when researching a pool installation company. Here are key questions to ask previous customers:
- How would you rate your overall experience with the company on a scale of 1 to 10?
- Was the project completed on time and within the original budget?
- How often did the company communicate project updates with you?
- Were employees professional and respectful when working on your property?
- Did workers thoroughly clean up the job site when finished each day?
- Were you satisfied with the quality of materials and workmanship?
- Did you encounter any surprises, change orders or cost overruns?
- Is there anything you wish you had known ahead of time or would do differently?
- Has the pool operated well without issues since completion?
- Would you recommend the company to install another pool?
The insights provided by references help indicate what to expect working with the pool contractor on your own project. Make sure to contact 3-5 references to get a well-rounded view of the builder’s quality and service level.
Signs of a High-Quality Pool Installation Company
Certain signs indicate a pool contractor is a high-quality choice for your project:
- Completed hundreds of local installations successfully
- Professional website with photos of past work
- Consistently positive online customer reviews
- Presence on industry review and resource sites
- Knowledgeable staff answer questions thoroughly
- Provides detailed 3D design renderings
- Uses premium equipment brands like Pentair and Hayward
- Handles permitting and inspections for you
- No documented complaints with licensing boards
- Resolves any BBB complaints promptly
- Maintains A+ Better Business Bureau rating
- Offers multi-year warranties on labor
- Stays on schedule and within quoted budget
- Sends regular email/text updates during the project
- Staff maintain clean, orderly worksites
-Flexible with changes and customizations
The more of these indicators you see, the clearer it becomes the pool company values quality workmanship, customer service, and professionalism – all things you want in your pool builder.
Cost Breakdown of Swimming Pool Installation
When budgeting for a new pool, it helps to understand the cost breakdown of the major installation components:
- Permits – $1,000 to $2,000 for licenses, inspections, and zoning approval.
- Excavation – $5,000 to $15,000 depending on size and soil conditions.
- Shell – $10,000 to $25,000 for materials and installation.
- Plumbing – $3,000 to $7,000 for drains, pipes, returns, skimmers.
- Filtration – $2,000 to $7,000 based on equipment size and extras like heaters.
- Decking – $7,000 to $15,000 depending on material (concrete, pavers, etc).
- Tile – $2,000 to $5,000 depending on design complexity.
- Fencing – $3,000 to $6,000 based on length.
- Landscaping – $3,000 to $10,000 depending on extent of plantings, lighting, etc.
- Contingency Fund – 5% to 10% for unexpected overages.
Having an accurate sense of the costs for different elements helps create a realistic pool installation budget. Get professional estimates to determine pricing for your specific project.
Questions to Ask During Consultations With Pool Companies
Initial consultations are key when evaluating pool installation companies. Be sure to ask the following questions:
- How long have you been installing pools in my area? Look for 5+ years minimum.
- How many projects like mine have you completed in the past year? More experience equals better results.
- Will you handle the permitting process? They should manage required approvals.
- What design options can you provide for my yard and budget? Expect detailed 3D renderings.
- What pool brands and equipment do you use? Look for top-tier durable materials.
- Do you have a portfolio of recent work I could view? Pictures speak louder than words.
- What is your typical pool construction schedule? From dig to completion should take 2-4 months.
- Can I speak with some recent customer references? Talk to 3-5 past clients for reassurance.
- Do you offer a warranty on the work? Multi-year guarantees show confidence.
- Are there any additional fees not in your estimate? Avoid companies with hidden charges.
Use this thorough question checklist during initial meetings to assess experience, expertise, and professionalism when choosing your pool pro.
Essential Permits for Pool Installation Projects
Pool contractors should pull all required permits, but homeowners should be aware of common approvals needed for pool installation including:
Building Permit – Required to construct the pool shell, decking, fencing, and equipment. Approves structural plans.
Electrical Permit – Needed to run wiring for pool pumps, lights, equipment, and bonding.
Plumbing Permit – Required for water lines, drainage, backflow prevention, and gas lines if heating.
Site Development Permit – For zoning approval and landscaping like patios, waterfalls, retaining walls.
Fence Permit – If adding new fencing around the pool for safety.
Demolition Permit – If removing an existing deck or structure to make room for the pool.
Right of Way Permit – For heavy equipment access from the street to your property if needed.
Check with your city permitting office to see if any other approvals are needed. Some areas