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| Definitive Pools.com
"bringing you into the next generation of online shopping". |
Inground Swimming Pool. |
| Welcome to Definitive Pools In
Ground swimming pool section. |
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| For Steel Wall Pricing
click here. |
For Polymer Wall Pricing
click here. |
Why Do You Want A Pool?
Before buying, prospective pool owners should consider these questions: Why do you want a
pool? What is it for? What are you going to do with it when it is built?
The reasons for wanting a pool can be many: personal recreation, family recreation,
exercise, physical therapy, entertaining, water safety instruction, etc. Once you have
decided the "why", then you can decide what kind of pool you want.
Types of Swimming Pools
There are two basic types of swimming pools: above-ground pools and in-ground. In general,
above-ground pools are less expensive to install because of the materials and construction
methods involved. Usually a special, heavy-duty vinyl lining is laid over a supporting
structure built of steel, aluminum, wood or other material. There is a wide range of pool
sizes and there are even models available in kit form that the homeowner can build.
Some above-ground pools can be taken down and stored or moved to new locations.
Maintenance is relatively simple and small cuts or tears in the vinyl can be repaired with
inexpensive patching materials. Above-ground pools usually are available in round, oval or
rectangular shapes. In many communities above-ground pools are not taxed as property
improvements.
In-ground swimming pools can be built using vinyl liners reinforced below ground by a
supporting framework. Other in-ground pools are constructed either of fiberglass, poured
concrete, or concrete called gunite that is sprayed over a basket framework of steel
reinforcing rods and wire mesh. A white plaster compound is then applied over the concrete
or gunite for a smooth surface and can be painted.
Depending upon the space available, in-ground pools can take a variety of sizes and
shapes: round, oval, kidney, free-form, etc. However, because of the installation costs
for excavation, supplies and labor, in-ground pools are more expensive to build than
above-ground pools. Unlike above-ground pools, in-ground pools usually are taxable as
property improvements.
Additional Costs
Swimming pools require certain basic equipment over and above the pool. A filter system to
insure clean water, steps or ladders, and skimmers for surface cleaning are considered
essential. Many pool owners install heating equipment and poolside decking of concrete or
wood. Pool covers are often used to keep water clean and retain heat when the pool is not
in use. If used properly, these covers can be a wise investment.
A wide range of accessories is available for pools including pool and outdoor lights,
diving boards, slides and hand rails for steps. While some accessories, such as outdoor
lights, can be added after construction, it is more economical to have fixed pool
equipment installed at the time of construction.
Keep in mind that local laws usually require security fences. A self-closing gate with a
latch accessible only to older children and adults is a wise safety precaution.
For filter and heating equipment most pool owners decide on some kind of housing structure
to protect the machinery from weather. In some climates, pool builders may recommend
screening in the pool area to keep out summer insects such as mosquitoes and flies. And
you may want to consider landscaping the pool area both for wind protection and privacy as
well as appearance.
Before building, pool buyers should talk to their insurance agent to find out about
additional home-owner coverage for the new pool. Information about possible property tax
assessment increases also should be obtained from local taxing authorities so you will
know what to expect when property taxes fall due.
Financing
Some swimming pools are considered a good property investment by many banks, and
prospective buyers would do well to ask about financing arrangements. Many pool builders
offer financing but it is wise to shop carefully because interest rates can vary.
Swimming Pools and Home Resale
Regardless of the pool requirements of your own family, keep in mind that you may one day
want to sell your property, and a swimming pool suitable for all ages can be a favorable
selling factor. Remember that very young children and many older persons are not able to
use ladders to enter and leave a pool. Walk-out steps in the shallow end are helpful.
Choosing A Pool Builder
Many prospective pool owners turn to neighbors and friends who have swimming pools for
information and recommendations about pool companies and builders. You should, of course,
talk with more than one builder and inspect and compare swimming pools the builders have
installed. You may want to contact home builders or architects for references to pool
companies. You want to be sure, too, that your builder is properly licensed and can make
any necessary site and soil evaluations of your property. The builder also should know
about existing zoning, building and grading requirements. Be sure to ask the builder about
any liability and compensation insurance he may carry to protect you in the event of an
accident during construction of the pool.
Before you make a final decision, check with the Better Business Bureau to learn of the
reliability of the builders you are considering.
When to Buy
In warm climates, any time is a good time to build a pool. In colder climates it might be
better to order your pool in late summer; the weather is best for construction and
contractors are less busy. You'll then have a pool ready for the first warm day the next
spring.
Avoiding Hot Water
Once you have decided to build a swimming pool there is a natural excitement and eagerness
to have it installed as soon as possible. This is often the point at which unwary buyers
can get into hot water because dishonest salespersons and builders will be quick to take
advantage of the situation. Keep in mind that the late spring and early summer months can
bring these unscrupulous people into communities where home swimming pools are popular.
Attractive advertisements can turn up, offering deals that seem too good to turn down.
Here are some warning signs that mean Buyer Beware:
Salespersons who tell you an advertised pool they offer "on sale" is not worth
having and then try to switch you to a more expensive model.
Salespersons who use the ploy of offering a reduced price on the basis your pool will be
used as a model.
Salespersons who pressure you into signing a contract. Remember: no reputable builder and
no authorized representative of a reputable builder will rush you into signing any
agreement or contract at any time.
Working With the Builder
From your first planning meeting until your pool is completed there will be day-to-day
decisions to make. When any questions arise be sure to discuss them with your contractor.
Local building regulations should be thoroughly reviewed and understood in advance. You
should know what lot grading may be necessary and the height and cost of any required
fencing. Utility lines (water and electric) may have to be installed or changed, and
hook-up charges should be known before the start of construction.
Discuss any necessary or possible removal of shrubs or trees to allow equipment and
supplies to be brought to the site and any possible damage to driveways, walks or lawns
because of heavy equipment or supply storage. Your discussions should be frank and a clear
understanding reached before work begins so that you know what repairs will be made and
who will pay for them.
Finally, take time to be sure about all construction details as well as the size, shape
and materials you want for your pool. Once work begins, changes could mean increased costs
to you.
The Contract
The contract you sign with your builder can be the most important step in building a
swimming pool. It should provide specific information about the pool you are going to have
built.
The National Swimming Pool Institute points out that every item of expense for materials
and labor, including optional equipment, should be covered in the contract. You should
have, in writing, the date the work will start and when work is to be completed, as well
as the total cost and the financing arrangements. Make certain that all promises and
representations made to you orally are included IN WRITING in your contract.
By working with a reliable contractor, you will know the terms and conditions of all
warranties, who is responsible in the event repairs or replacements are needed, who will
do the work, and who will pay for it. |
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