Construction Tips

What you need to know that most builders will not tell you!

The pool designer should be on site during the construction process to be sure that the design you were promised is built. Many salesmen sell a simple pool template and are then not available to deliver what was agreed upon.

Be leery of big promises such as money off the pool for references, large specials and “deals.” If you have a large pool that is a great deal less expensive than others, beware. There are many ways to cut back on the quality of a pool without you knowing, until something breaks. Compare apples to apples and ask each builder to clarify the differences before you choose.

Construction supervision by your contractor is one of the most important principles of professional pool building. Unfortunately, many builders don't really check on their sub-contractors after each phase. Volume builders (companies that build hundreds of pools), can be the worst offenders in this regard. If the builder constructs under 80 pools a year, personal supervision can be expected. This is much better that being lost in the shuffle.

Some companies use unscrupulous tactics to collect the final check before plastering the pool, doing cleanup, or completing some other detail of your pool -- in other words, "No check, no plaster." We have heard from many upset customers who are at the mercy of their builder at this point. Be very clear with the salesman about how the installments are to be paid.

Get bids from several different companies and check references. Also check with the Better Business Bureau and request all complaints filed with the pool company. This will let you know the truth about their integrity.