What to Expect When Working with a Pool Builder

If you're considering having a pool installed, then you'll likely want to learn more about the process of getting a pool so that you'll know what to expect from pool builders in Orange County. While different companies offer different services, the basic process of getting a pool is generally the same.

Initial Consultation

The first thing that pool builders do is provide you with a consultation. This is where they'll help you select a pool if you wish and if you've already got one picked out, then they'll let you know the steps you'll have to take to install it where you want it. They'll include information on leveling the area where you want to place the pool, how much it'll cost for the complete installation and any financing options they offer for payment of their services.

A Few Tips for Choosing Pool Builders

Installing a pool is no small feat, so it's a job that you only want to entrust to true professionals. This list of tips can help you better choose Orange County pool builders who will meet your needs.

1. Do Your Research

Make sure to research any pool builders you're considering contracting. Check with the Better Business Bureau to see if any complaints have been lodged against the pool company. You might also want to check the contractor's references. Chances are that contractors who are willing to provide you with an ample list of references are more likely to be legit and have satisfied customers.

How to Make Your Pool Safer for All

Summer gives you the perfect opportunity to dip your toes into your swimming pool. To keep these experiences fun and safe for all, your pool needs the right safety features.

Set Up a Safety Cover

To keep children and pets out of the pool, you need to set up a safety cover. They resemble a large trampoline and are designed to float on top of the water. Should one of your children accidentally fall into the pool, the cover keeps them from sinking.

Today, you have several kinds to purchase. If you want to also heat your pool, solar rings might be a great option. They help pass heat into the deeper areas of your pool. Winter pool covers are also effective because of their heavy-duty design, durability, and thickness.

Questions to Ask When Building a Pool

To get the most out of your pool, the planning phase needs careful consideration. You’ll want to ask yourself these questions so that you’re happy with the end product.

Why Do You Want a Pool?
 

Why exactly do you want a pool? Is it to provide the children with entertainment during the summer, or is the pool being used as a therapeutic device after a hard day at work? Knowing the answers to these questions gives you some idea of where to begin and what type of pool you want on your property.

If your pool is strictly for aesthetic purposes, for example, you may want to include striking water features. Conversely, pools that are being used for function need a lot of space so everyone can swim comfortably. 

Planning a Pool? Why Not Throw in a Spa?

Planning for a pool may sound like a great idea now that spring and summer are on their way, but that might not be the only thing you should be drawing up with pool builders. 

You should also consider designing a spa. With its hot water jets and smaller basin, a spa might sound counterintuitive to summer activities. Yet there are a few good reasons a spa would be a worthwhile add-on to your pool.

Warm days, cool nights

Spring and summer will give you enough warm days to content your Southern Californian heart; nowadays, even in Orange County, they’re also likely to come with more cool nights. A spa should come in handy once you want to take a late-hour dip. 

Besides, after a day of laps, water polo with friends, or chasing kids around a pool, doesn’t a quiet night soaking in your private spa sound appealing? 

Two projects in one job

Constructing a spa with your pool also figures to be cost-effective. After all, builders already have to excavate, install the plumbing, and source chemicals and materials as they work on your pool. 

Of course it would cost extra, and maintaining a spa’s hot water system won’t come cheap long-term. However, it could still cost less than having to heat an entire pool.  

In-ground vs. portable

But why should you have a spa built with your pool? Wouldn’t a portable hot tub be more practical? 

True, portable tubs are easier and faster to install. However, they come in fixed shapes and sizes, limiting your room for customization and integrated design. In-ground spas can be built to your specifications – and, along with your pool, make your yard and garden more stunning than before.

Going Green with Your Swimming Pool Equipment

These days, with rising public concern on environmental impact and decreasing natural resources, more and more homeowners are starting to make eco-friendly decisions especially when it comes to their home improvement projects. Take the construction of swimming pools, for example, wherein the USA Swimming and National Swimming Pool Foundation estimate that there are 10 million swimming pools in the United States and that the average backyard pool holds 25,000 gallons of water--a fact that can be a problem in areas suffering from drought.

This is why Orange County pool builders are taking an environment-friendly initiative by utilizing green technology to make sure that the pools they construct are energy-saving, ecological, and beautiful. Here are more ways to make swimming pools and spas less harmful to the environment:

Consider variable-speed pumps

Did you know that a well-designed variable-speed pump can reduce energy costs of running a swimming pool by up to 90 percent? It’s no wonder, therefore, that pool renovation projects to reduce energy consumption mostly focuses on finding the best pump. Unlike single-speed pumps that rely on one speed to do its job, a variable-speed pump can be programmed to operate in the right speed for the task at hand, such as operating waterfalls, spa jets, or suction-side pool cleaners. Your initial investment on a variable-speed pump can be recouped after two years.

Choose energy-saving pool equipment

The pool pump may be the biggest energy-eater in a pool, but there are more energy-saving pool equipment for you to consider. The filter, for one, have an impact on the pool’s energy consumption. Generally, cartridge filtration systems offer the least resistance to flow, saving energy in the process. You may also want to invest in digital automation systems to automatically schedule cleaning and filtration cycles.

Ways That Pool Contractors Can Transform Your Pool

Your pool may be in dire need of a facelift, and remodeling is the perfect solution to this problem. Moreover, pool remodeling can increase the value of your home in the years to come.

Efficient Upgrade

If your pool was installed in the 90s or 80s, then it is certainly due for an upgrade because it will not be as efficient as it was when first installed. A renovation will enable you to upgrade to better cleaning and water heating systems. You could also opt for energy-efficient systems like a solar water heater, which can reduce your water bills.

Creating Your Own Pool Paradise with Pool Builders

Did you know that you can create the ultimate oasis in the yard of your home and have a pool that meets your needs, comfort, and lifestyle? If this is your first time having your own pool built, you may be wondering where to start. The first step may be deciding what you’d like to look like and what features you’d want to be included in your pool.

3 Popular Types of Swimming Pools for Homes

Swimming pools come in different types, each one has its own qualities and functions. Knowing these types is important so that you can choose the one that best fits your needs and lifestyle. Orange County pool contractors can help guide you in making a decision and build the structure for you.

Swimming Benefits the Mind and Body

Having your own pool at home isn’t just for luxury or to add value to your home, but it can actually help you live a better life. Thanks to the health benefits of swimming, you can help ensure your physical well-being by regularly spending time in the pool to stretch those muscles and simply have fun.

How Pool Builders can Transform Your Property

Whether your home is older or you’ve moved into a used property, the pool area may seem ancient. Revitalize this area by hiring a pool builder, a professional that can transform your pool to give it added value and warmth. 

Cost-Effective Ways to Renovate Your Pool

The pool is not just a place to go when you want to cool off. It’s a reflection of you and your family’s personality. Tap into your creative side and consider these tips, giving your pool a customized look without breaking the bank. 

In-Ground vs. Above-Ground Pools Basics

Now that you’ve decided that you’re getting a pool, the next thing you have to determine is what type of pool you want to have in your backyard. The decision will ultimately be decided based on your personal preference, but just the same, knowing about the different types available, namely in-ground and above-ground, should help. 

Great Ideas for Your Outdoor Swimming Pool

You know for a fact that adding a swimming pool in your backyard is going to do wonders for your property’s real estate value. House-hunters put a high premium on this additional feature, especially if they are the type to host outdoor parties and barbecues. 

Pool Builders: 4 Signs Saying It's Time to Remodel

A pool can last for years; however, time can also take a toll on it. Wear and tear are possible, among other structural problems that may occur. If you’re wondering when it’s time to remodel your pool, then you may want to check it for the following signs.

Pool Builders: How to Plan to Build a Spa

A spa is an entertaining addition to any home. It provides a space where you, your family, and guests can relax while bonding together. Moreover, it enhances not only your health, but your home’s aesthetic appeal and overall value.

3 Reasons You Need to Remodel Your Swimming Pool

If you’re like most people, giving your swimming pool a facelift may not be high on your priority list, because of a wide range of reasons. But if this is the place where you relax, you may want to seriously consider it. After all, it's where you unwind after a long day of work, so why not make it as good looking as possible?

How Swimming Pools Can Add More Value to Your Home

Your swimming pool is more than just a little bit of backyard bliss. Since many people seem to be looking for one when it is time to buy a house, having one should definitely add value to your home once it’s time for you to put your property on sale.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Pool Builder

Having a pool built for your home is a huge investment. Pools certainly aren't cheap, and in order to make them last, it's essential that they are built and installed properly. When choosing pool builders for your next pool or spa project, there's a few factors to keep in mind.

Price

Get price quotes from many different pool builders to help you ensure that you select one who offers you the best deal. Finding a pool within your budget might sometimes seem difficult, but good pool builders usually offer financing to assist you with covering the cost to build your pool.

Options

Look for pool builders who have plenty of options. Good pool builders usually build various types of pools, so they're experienced professionals who really know what they're doing. If you want to incorporate landscaping into your custom pool, then make sure that the builder you choose offers that option. Also, if you have a certain brand of pool in mind that you want, choose a builder who carries the brand.

Reputation

Perhaps one of the most important factors to consider when choosing the company you're going to let build your pool is the company's reputation. Ideal pool builders have plenty of years of experience in the field, and they also have a good reputation with plenty of satisfied customers under their belts. Look for companies that have stellar customer reviews and include photos of previously built pools.

Top Features for Luxury Home Pools and Spas

Orange County, CA is an ideal place to own a pool, thanks to the year round warm temperatures. As you weigh varying pool and spa options, think about including one or more of the following luxury features to take your pool area up a notch. You'll create a spot that family and friends will enjoy relaxing in for hours on end.

Fountains, waterfalls, and other water feature


Water features add visual interest to a pool space, provide a calming background noise to drown out noisy neighbors or traffic, and cool the air surrounding the pool. Just a few pool water features include waterfalls, fountains, canon jets, sheer descents, spillways, and rain curtains.

Fire features


Fire adds a dramatic element to a pool that you'll be hard pressed to achieve with any other pool feature. It also adds a romantic ambiance, which many couples find appealing for late night soaks. Fire extends pool use, making it an attractive option on chillier nights.

An infinity or negative edge


An infinity or negative edge brings sophistication and elegance to any home pool. Typically an infinity edge showcases a sloping bluff with a dramatic view, but you can incorporate an infinity edge into any pool space.

If you have any questions about luxury home pool and spa features, consult with an Orange County pool contractor. Your contractor will help you determine which features are a good fit for your pool space and budget.