Frequently Asked Questions

I often see pool companies advertise pools at very low prices.  Can I really get a pool at these prices?

Yes, it is possible to build a pool at very low prices.  Most of these "low" prices are nothing more than "BAIT AND SWITCH".  In order to build a cheap pool you will be compromising quality.  A cheap pool may end up costing you more in the long run.  Don't forget the old adage, "You get what you pay for."

Why do estimates vary when the pools seem to be the same?

There are many factors that go into the building of a swimming pool, including the quality of materials used.  Some pool builders will not include some very important factors when giving an estimate, and at the end of the job, you find that you have actually spent more than the original estimate.  There are also places where a pool builder may cut costs for example in the following areas:

• Craftsmanship
• Quality of Materials - pumps, filters, etc...
• Design
• Underground Strength
• Ease of Maintenance
• Warranty
• Service

Be sure that the company you trust to build your pool uses quality materials that are adequate to support the pool and that the company will stand behind the work.

A pool is a major investment.  Are there any warranties?

You should always compare the warranties on all pool builders you consider for your pool.  Your warranty is only as good as the company that gives it.  If they are out of business, so is your warranty.  Make sure you receive all warranties in WRITING!  Never accept anything verbally.

What does it mean to have a "lifetime structural warranty?"

What this means is that the gunite structure will hold water for as long as you live in your home.  Like all warranties, this is only as good as the company backing it.  Some companies, including Elite Pools and Spas, will transfer the warranty time if you happen to sell your home during the warranty period.

How long will it take to build my pool?

From the day that excavation actually begins, it should take between 30 and 45 days (weather permitting).  Keep in mind, that excavation does not begin the same day you sign your contract.  Before we begin on your pool, there are certain things which must happen first:

• Financing:  Unless you are paying cash for the pool, you must acquire financing.  For you convenience, we can recommend a bank
• Homeowner Association:  If you live in a subdivision with an active HOA, permission must be a acquired prior to excavation
• Marking and finding utility lines
• Permits must be acquired from your city or county.  Permits can sometimes hold up the process depending on your city/county and the time of the year.  Elite Pools and Spas will let you know how long this normally takes

We lead very busy lives.  Do we have to be home during construction of our pool?

There will only be a few times which you must be home during construction:  the day the swimming pool is excavated and the day(s) the electrician and gas people are there.  You will also need to water down the gunite structure 2 to 3 times a day for about 7 days, as well as be there to turn the water off after the pool is filled to the mid-tile line.

Does the shape of the pool we want impact the price we pay?

Yes.  Pools are priced by the perimeter of the swimming pool, therefore, a curve shaped swimming pool is less expensive than a rectangular pool.

Do you have any tips on getting new pool construction/remodel bids?

Yes, lots!

• You should get 3 to 4 bids.  If you get more than that, it will overwhelm you.  Then narrow it down to two that were in the same area of price range. Lastly, choose the company that brought back a bid and drawing that you were looking for.
• Ask if the Contractor and sub-contractors have insurance and will all workers on your property be an employee of/insured while on your property.
• Do homework on Contractor’s sub-contractors.  They should be well known, insured, and ask if your contractor is in good standings with that sub-contractor.  If a Contractor changes sub-contractors a lot, or does not want to tell you who their contractors are, that should be a red flag.
• Ask neighbors, co-workers, friends and local pool stores if they know anyone who has had a pool built.  Tell them that you are looking into building a pool.  People will always tell you the good and the bad.
• Make sure that you have read the contract thoroughly and know all that comes along with building a pool.  Example:  Upgrading your gas meter, replacing grass, replacing your fence, any underground items.  Most Pool Builders are not responsible for fixing these items.
• Last but not least.  Go with the person whom you are most comfortable with and can give what you want on paper.  Always make sure that you have a drawing and contract signed by both you and the contractor.

Note: If you have a Sub-contractor going straight to the public, that usually means that Contractors will not use them.  Red Flag!!!

What to do once you have a new pool or a remodel:

Most contractors do not take care of your pool once they have built it or remodeled it.  It is your job to learn or hire a weekly maintenance company to take care of it every week.  The average cost of that is around $150 a month including chemicals (depending on size of the pool).  Again, do homework and find a reputable company who is insured and well-known.

When your pool is new, you must brush your pool at-least once a day for 10 days.  Many new pool owners do not know the importance in this step.  It helps get the dust and particles loose and out of the pool.

It is your job to get the chemicals that you will need for your pool.  Most companies will provide you with the start up equipment on a new pool construction.  Keep the water balanced.  Most pools in the Clear Lake Area will need algaecides starting in March and use them until it starts cooling off this will help with prevention.  Check skimmer and pump baskets, and keep them cleaned out every few days depending on trees, and whether in your area.  This will help your equipment stay running properly.  Keep your water level at the middle of your tile line at all times.

The pool company that you choose should not have a problem helping with answers or warranty questions, even after your job is complete.  Please know that the warranties on your equipment are warranted through that equipment manufacturer, not the pool company that installs it.  Always have your warranties on paper, and make sure that you are aware of them.

We hope that this will help make your pool building and/or remodeling a more educational and pleasant experience.