Choosing a pool builder is the most challenging part of the process.
How do you go about sorting out all those pool builders and picking the right one?
Here are some tips that help you get organized and move you along the journey to becoming a happy pool owner.
Search Local Pool Contractor Websites
Find some pool builders and review their websites. You can find the largest swimming pool builders, with information about their companies and links to their websites. Look for the styles and designs that appeal to you. Pick out a few pool builders and contact them for an appointment.
Find a certified swimming pool contractor.
Ensure the dealer has a CBP Certified pool builder on staff – the designation cannot be awarded to a company. This shows that the staff member has gone through extensive training and testing on pool building.
Ask For Referrals!
Ask the pool builder for a list of customer references or to see pools they have built. Contact those people and ask them how they felt about the entire pool building process before and after the sale. Another great question to ask is how many pools they’ve built in the past year. Some of those referrals should be from brand new pool owners to give you an idea about how the process went for them.
Get It In Writing
If the salesperson makes any promises or claims affecting the pool’s purchase, construction, or warranty, get it in writing. The builder should be comfortable backing the claims they make to you.
Take your time
Don’t rush into your decision—comparison shop. Get bids from competitor companies, but be careful not to get “Paralysis by Analysis”. This is a big project with hundreds of moving pieces. The right contractor will inspire confidence and explain the good, bad, and ugly. Relax and enjoy the process that ends in the ultimate “Staycation” spot.
Visit the pool store.
Visit the pool company’s office or showroom and see if employees seem knowledgeable and professional. You will probably be dealing with these people, and if any problem arises, these are the people who will be handling the issue. Do you get a good feeling from them? Having the proper emotional fit between customer and builder is crucial when things go as planned. And no project is perfect.
Read everything the contractor gives you.
A reputable pool builder will have plenty of reading material with golden nuggets of information. Please read all the written materials they give you. Don’t sign any proposals or contracts until you’re comfortable that all your questions have satisfying answers.
Listen to your gut
Last but certainly not least, go with your gut. Do you get good feelings from the pool builder? Do you feel like you are treated fairly? Have they listened to you and understand the vision you have for your backyard? Your intuition can tell you a lot about a person or company. Trust yourself, and the rest will fall into place.
Picking from the available pool builder can take some effort. Follow the tips mentioned above and find the builder who is suitable for you. You’ll spend some time on the phone talking with references. You may also spend time online checking portfolios and licenses.
Now get started and enjoy your new pool.
