Frequently Asked Questions
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 Backyard Amenities, 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?
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 your convenience, we can recommend a bank
Homeowner Association: If you live in a subdivision with an active HOA, permission is sometimes required 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. Backyard Amenities 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: when excavation begins and the day(s) the electrician and gas people are there. You will also need to water down the gunite structure 2 times a day for 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 primarily priced by the perimeter of the swimming pool, therefore, a curve shaped swimming pool (free form design) is less expensive than a rectangular pool (geometric pool design).
Do you have any tips on getting new pool construction bids?
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. Be sure to compare the quality of the equipment and materials used to build the pool, as they effect the price and outcome of the job.
Ask if the Builder and sub-contractors have insurance and will all workers on your property be an employee of/insured while on your property.
Do homework on Builder’s sub-contractors. Ask if the Builder is in good standings with the sub-contractors. Found out how long the Builder and sub-contractors have worked together.
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 contract signed by both you and the Builder.
I'm building a new home. If I'm considering a new pool, what are the benefits of proceeding now instead of waiting until completion of my new home?
Building your new pool or spa during the construction of your new home has many substantial benefits. The most important is cost savings. By adding your pool to your home’s first mortgage, you could lower its financing costs.
In addition, you will also avoid the rare inconveniences that can be associated with the construction of a custom built pool. If you're not yet living there full time, the normal construction traffic will be less noticeable and the pool will seamlessly become part of your new home construction as a whole.
As a final point, you will be better able to incorporate the pool design and any other backyard amenities with your home design. One of our pool builders will be able to work with your homebuilder to ensure that your backyard sanctuary blends in harmoniously with your new dream home.