Pools Unlimited
FAQs
Have pool-related questions? We have the answers. Check out these FAQs and contact us today for more information!
How much is involved in caring for a pool?
In the past, pool maintenance was more of a chore. But, with today’s innovative technology and conveniences, owning a swimming pool can be easier than owning a car! Pool chemical testing, pre-programmed filtration and heating can all be automated and activated by wireless controller if you desire. Automatic pool cleaning systems and various sanitizing devices also make pool maintenance simple.
What pool design is right for me?
Every property has its own unique features and challenges to consider when designing a pool. Consider how you intend to use your pool. Is exercise important? How about family use? Is there a special needs individual in the home? Where will the pool look best when viewed from inside and outside of your home? Pools Unlimited, Inc. will come to your home to take photos, and make sketches of your property to assist in preparing a custom design at NO charge.
If I have a small or difficult yard or area to work with, can I still have a pool?
Expert pool builders, such as Pools Unlimited, Inc. can construct a quality pool in all shape and size areas. Our design and construction teams have worked with the most challenging of properties. You will be amazed by Pools Unlimited Inc.’s creative and innovative solutions for turning your dreams into an aquatic oasis.
What are some of the options available to add to my pool?
There are many innovative water treatment options, fiber-optic lighting, remote controls, automatic cleaning systems, spa products, and plenty of other options to make your pool easier to maintain and more enjoyable and fun for family and friends. Let us know what you would like, and Pools Unlimited, Inc. will be happy to show you how to make it happen.
Can I enjoy my pool year round? Do pools contribute to the drought?
You certainly can use your pool year round! We are not only pool builders but we have pools of our own and like most of our customers, use our pool not just during “pool season”. Many people host football game pool parties around their pool-scape!
As for contributing to the drought, water agency studies have proven that a residential swimming pool requires less water to maintain that the landscaping they will replace. And the water in your swimming pool is available whenever it is needed in an emergency.
Should I consider building my own pool? Are there advantages to building my pool while my home is under construction instead of waiting until my home is completed?
Never! Pool builders with experience, knowledge, and proper training can provide the wise and innovative solutions to produce the superior quality of a finished pool. As a builder, we have huge buying power, therefore, we can offer cost efficient construction, competitive pricing and unwavering coordination of your project to deliver a hassle-free experience, with a guarantee.
Will a pool increase the value of my home?
Yes! Most studies show a pool will increase the value of a home anywhere between 7% and 15%, depending on where the home is located in San Antonio, The Hill Country, and surrounding areas. It also will continue to increase in value through the years, along with the home.
What are the benefits of having a pool?
- Entertain – When you build a pool, you create an inviting, invigorating space to entertain family and friends. Invite friends and family over for a poolside bar-b-que, a dip in the pool or relax in your spa.
- Outdoor Resort – a well designed pool is more than just a hole filled with water. You can literally turn your backyard into an outdoor oasis. With waterfalls, negative edges and other unique amenities, a pool can serve as a relaxing, tranquil and inviting centerpiece for years to come.
- Health – instead of going to the gym, you’ll be able to spend time exercising in your own pool. Research has shown, swimming provides a better total body workout with very low risk of injury. It also helps burn calories and lose weight.
- Relaxation – After a long day at work, escape from the fast pace of life, take a quick dip in your pool to unwind. Spending time in water helps the body relax and reduce stress. Most people say it helps them sleep better.
- Increase the value of your home – Studies have shown, owning a pool increases the value of your home by as much as 15%, making your property more attractive to prospective buyers. A pool may be the difference between a quick sale and it remaining on the market.
- Investment – A long vacation, a movie, or a visit to a theme park will become old after a while as children grow up. A pool will be enjoyed by family and friends for years and years.
How much will a pool cost and what factors affect the cost?
The price of a pool is determined by factors other than just size and shape. Pools Unlimited, Inc. custom designs each pool to the individual customer’s wants and needs so pricing can be varied. Some areas affecting price are:
- Permits required – city, home owners association fees, inspection fees throughout the process.
- Type of materials chosen – there is a wide variety of tiles, stones and other type of materials available to suit all price ranges.
- Additional features such as waterfalls, Outdoor Kitchen, spas, diving boards, slides, beach entries, etc.
- Equipment to operate, maintain and clean your pool and spa.
What about warranties and is my investment well-protected?
Warranties are very important! At Pools Unlimited, Inc. we are confident in the products we use to build your pool and offer warranty to back it up. Always ask and compare warranties when you receive a pool estimate from any pool builder. Pool builders go out of business every year, which means when they are gone the warrantees could be an issue. Ask your builder WHO provides their warranty service!
Why should I choose your company over an advertisement promising a custom pool at a very low price?
While it is possible to build a pool at a low price, equipment, structural elements, quality craftsmanship, and design may be compromised. Pools Unlimited, Inc. understands the costs between a great job and a poor job can be significant. We work with every customer to determine a budget which encompasses their desires and needs to create a custom design which reflects the picture they see, in their mind, for their own backyard, within budget.
Do you offer financing?
Yes! You can make your families dreams of a pool a reality by merely taking the equity in their home and converting it into cash. It is easy, inexpensive and tax wise. Contact us for more information on lending agencies available to assist you.
Selecting the Right Contractor
Tips & Tricks
1. Are You Licensed and Insured?
Licensing is a critical aspect of hiring a swimming pool contractor. A license ensures that contractors have met specific competency standards, abide by industry regulations, and adhere to safety measures. Working with a licensed contractor also encourages compliance with local municipal codes and regulations, safeguarding your interests. For example, according to This Old House, a diving board should not be installed over water that is less than nine to 10 feet deep; assessing your contractor’s adherence to such standards can highlight their commitment to safety. Furthermore, a license can be an indicator of a contractor’s professionalism and commitment to their trade. Ignoring this crucial step could cost you significantly if issues arise during or after construction.
Verification of a contractor’s license should be a priority and can be done using various resources. Local authorities or trade associations often provide platforms for homeowners to confirm licenses. Online databases also exist for many regions, simplifying this process further. Verification reassures you that the contractor meets the necessary legal and professional criteria. In addition to licensing, insurance is equally vital for protecting against potential liabilities throughout the project.
Different types of insurance, such as liability and workers’ compensation, are essential to cover various scenarios. Liability insurance protects you from potential accidents or damage on your property, while workers’ compensation covers injuries sustained by workers. Hiring uninsured contractors can lead to significant legal and financial repercussions. Insurance verifies that the contractor is prepared for unforeseen incidents, which is crucial for the homeowners’ peace of mind. To effectively assess legitimacy, inquire specifically about licensing and insurance coverage details.
2. Can You Provide References or Past Project Examples?
The ability to provide references is an important sign of a reputable swimming pool contractor. Past client feedback offers valuable insights into a contractor’s reliability, professionalism, and quality of work. When considering references, understanding others’ experiences can help guide your decision. A pattern of satisfaction among past clients is a reassuring indicator of a contractor’s capabilities. It is often advisable to require more than just verbal references and seek tangible examples of previous projects.
Viewing past projects can be achieved through photographs on your contractor’s website. Reviewing a portfolio from your swimming pool contractor allows you to assess their style, quality, and ability to meet client expectations. This inspection of past works can reveal the quality of materials used and whether or not the overall aesthetic matches your desires. This process assists in determining whether a contractor aligns with your vision. Evaluate projects comparable to your intended design to foresee potential outcomes and make informed decisions. Understanding past customer satisfaction is key to evaluating a contractor’s service quality. Focus on references that talk about punctuality, professionalism, and problem-solving.
3. What Is the Estimated Timeline for the Project?
Developing a realistic expectation of your project’s schedule is crucial for effectively planning for and managing pool construction. Understanding the timeline helps you anticipate disruptions to your daily routine. Your swimming pool contractor can provide a detailed timeline that includes preparation, construction, and finishing phases. By doing so, you can align your expectations and plan accordingly. This transparency helps prevent surprises and ensures that everyone is on the same page regarding project completion.
Many factors influence the completion time of a swimming pool project. Weather conditions, for instance, can cause unexpected delays if significant rainfall or extreme temperature fluctuations occur. Additionally, obtaining permits can often take longer than anticipated, affecting the overall timeline. Seasonal demand may also impact the availability of materials or labor, further extending deadlines. Understanding these elements is vital to setting realistic expectations for the project duration.
Discussing a contractor’s approach to handling delays can clarify their commitment to meeting deadlines. Setting project milestones encourages accountability and allows you to track progress incrementally. It also offers opportunities to address potential issues proactively. Ask your contractor specific questions to confirm that they have a realistic approach to managing time effectively.
4. What Materials Will You Use?
The choice of materials your swimming pool contractor offers is vital, as it impacts your pool’s quality, durability, and safety. High-quality materials ensure that the pool is not only aesthetically pleasing but also robust and safe for use. Discussing materials with your contractor allows you to understand their selections and the rationale behind them. This discussion can also illuminate options that may enhance the lifespan of your pool while minimizing maintenance needs. Prioritizing durable materials can lead to long-term savings.
Exploring customization options with your contractor can help you achieve a pool design that reflects your personal style and preferences. There is a wide array of material options available to you, and your swimming pool contractor can help you decide which are best for your needs. Customization enables you to adjust the aesthetic aspects of your pool while maintaining functionality. These options should be discussed to see how they can fit within your vision.
5. What Is Your Warranty and Maintenance Policy?
A clear understanding of the scope of warranties offered by your swimming pool contractor is crucial for protecting your investment. A comprehensive warranty assures compensation or repair for any faults that occur within a specified period. It’s important to clarify what is encompassed within the warranty and any conditions that may void it. Contact points for warranty claims should be well-defined to avoid confusion later on. Your contractor should be able to provide documentation detailing the warranty’s terms and conditions.
Main warranty inclusions often cover defects in materials and workmanship, but specifics can vary between contractors. Knowing what is typically covered helps set realistic expectations and allows you to assess the adequacy of the warranty. A robust warranty policy can serve as a testament to the contractor’s confidence in their work, reflecting their reliability and responsibility. Besides coverage details, inquire about the timeline for claiming under warranty, which can vary widely. Establishing clarity upfront aids in avoiding misunderstandings and ensures swift resolution of issues, should they arise.
Service after completion often plays a critical role in post-project satisfaction and maintenance. Contractors should communicate their approach to making necessary repairs. Understanding their protocol for handling these issues can reveal their effectiveness in supporting clients after a project is completed. Having this support can be invaluable in prolonging the life and quality of your pool. Addressing these topics by asking questions can help you stay well-informed regarding repair support.
Embarking on a swimming pool project can be an exciting yet challenging endeavor.
- Thoroughly vetting potential contractors through strategic questioning can make all the difference in ensuring a successful and stress-free construction experience.
- By exploring licensing and insurance, references, timelines, materials, and warranties, you can confidently choose a contractor who meets your expectations.
- This knowledge empowers you to make informed decisions, align expectations, and protect your investment. This comprehensive approach contributes significantly to the successful realization of your ideal swimming pool.