General Questions

How much does a pool cost?
There are many variables that effect the pools cost. Size of Pool, amount of decking, water-features, etc. It is difficult to compare quotes from 2 different companies “apples to apples” because of the amount of variables involved. And if you were able to get the equipment, coping, decking etc. all the same, you would still have to consider the company’s reputation, warranties, and how the job will be supervised.

How much is the monthly electricity cost?
Your electric bill will vary depending on if you have a spa/waterfall. An average pool generates about $30-$35 per month.

How much do chemicals cost?
Chemicals will vary depending upon your water. The average chlorine/acid cost is about $10 per month.

How long does it take to build a pool?
From the day the pool is excavated, a pool takes about 30 days to build. If you live in the city limits, your pool could take a little longer due to city inspections. Keep in mind, if it rains, it will take longer.

Which kind of filter is the best?
There are basically 2 types of Filters being used in the industry.
Cartridge Filters - This filter should be a minimum of 300 sq.ft. As the water passes through the cartridges, it is filtered and returned to the pool.
Cleaning: On a new pool clean twice in the first 2 months, then every time the pressure rises 10lbs.
To Clean: The cartridges are removed from the tank and, if not too dirty, wash with garden hose. If you have a lot of oil/chemical build up, they will need to be soaked in a cleaner (see your local chemical store).
DE Filters - This filter should be a minimum of 48 sq.ft. The DE powder coats the membrane of the filter and as water passes through this powder, it is filtered.
Cleaning: On a new pool clean twice in first 2 months, then every time the  pressure rises 10lbs.
To Clean: The DE filter comes with a valve. Turn the valve to “backwash mode” until the filter is clean.  Replenish DE powder.
So, which one is the best? That depends on you. The cartridge filter might not have to be cleaned as often as the DE filter, but the DE filter is easier to clean.  The cartridge filter doesn’t use any powder so the DE filter will cost a little more. You be the judge!

What kinds of decking are available around pools?
The types of decking available are: brushed concrete, exposed aggregate, hand seeded aggregate, kool deck, stamped concrete, and flagstone. They are all good around swimming pools. Wood decks look nice too, but do not hold up as well around water.

Where does the water drain to?
People think of pool drains like bathtub drains. Actually pool main drains are for circulation purposes only. A pool does not need to be drained except for major repairs. You should keep your pool running year-round. It is inexpensive to keep it running and clean.

How does financing on a pool work?
Financing is typically done with a Home Improvement or Home Equity loan. You can do a signature loan but will lose your tax benefits. The Home Improvement/Equity loans can be done through most banks. Texas has passed a law that requires you to wait 12 days from the day you apply for the loan to close the loan. Then, there is a 3-day right of recision period. If you are credit challenged or get denied, we do have other sources to apply with.

What kinds of warranties are available on your pools?
Our pools come with a lifetime warranty on the gunite structure of the pool. The equipment (i.e. pump, filter, heater) all carry a manufacturer’s warranty.

How much room do we need for a tractor?
Pools are usually excavated with a Trac Hoe or Bobcat. We will need approximately 10’-12’ side to side clearance for the Trac Hoe, less for the Bobcat. Let us come look at your property.

What is gunite?
Gunite is a mixture of cement/sand that is much stronger than concrete. With the proper steel (5” O.C.), we offer the Lifetime Structural Warranty.

What is coping?
Coping is the 12” edge around the water. It is either precast (safety grip), bullnose brick, travertine, or flagstone.

What is a Fill Line?
A Fill line is a PVC line we can install that will enable you to turn a faucet to fill your pool, or it can be tied into your sprinkler system.

What is an Overflow Line?
An Overflow line is a PVC line which is installed at the top of your tile line below your coping which will allow water to drain to a predetermined location. KEEP IN MIND, when you have an overflow line and several people get in the pool, your water will rise and cause overflow which will make you add more water to the pool.

How much steel do you put in the structure of a pool?
Some companies are doing a 12” X 12” pattern of steel in your structure. Because of the shifting soil in Texas and by recommendation from our engineer, we always install our steel on 5” centers on the stress points, including up the walls all the way up to the beam giving you MUCH more strength!

What size pumps are good? Is bigger better?
Bigger is not always better. Get the right pump for your pool. Determine gallons, pump flow rate, and water features, see which size will save you the most in electric expense.  A good general number to use is:
1 1/2 HP Pump for pools without a spa.
2 1/2 HP Pump for pools with a spa.

How long does the pump need to run?
In the summer when algae grows the most, your pump should run about 8 hours per day. In the winter, only about 3-4. In the summer, please run the pump in the day time. Algae grows the most while the sun is out.

What are some guidelines for pool safety?
Diving pools - minimum 34’ long and 8’ deep.
Slides - install where there is 14’ of water in front and at least 4½’ deep.
Main drains - ALWAYS 2
Fencing - 6’ fence, gates self-closing and keep locks on all gates. A door alarm for the back door helps too!

How do I pay for a pool?
Cash or finance. Once you have your money, you pay for the pool on a Draw Schedule. You pay as we build. Our draw schedule is 30% (Excavation) 30% (Gunite) 30% (Decking) and finally the last 10% at completion of your pool, TO YOUR SATISFACTION!

Is there TAX on pools?
NO! There is no tax on swimming pools.

New Home Buyer Info

What do we need to know before contracting on an existing home?
Be sure you find out the details! We have had customers in the past buy a home and realize they can not put a pool in.
1 - Make sure your utility easement doesn’t take up the whole yard. Get a survey and fax it to us, we can tell you.
2 - Make sure the Home Owners' Association doesn’t have any guidelines which will prevent you from building a pool.
3 - You may have utilities running underground/overhead where the pool will go. If they have to be moved, it will cost!
4 - Make sure you have the proper fencing.

What should we be aware of when building a new home?
1 - See answers from above question.
2 - It is possible to finance the pool with your home or do a Home Improvement Loan afterwards.
3 - Make sure the builder keeps all utilities out of the pool area.
4 - Let the builder know you are planning on putting a pool in so that he/she can leave room in the breaker box.
5 - Get a survey (plot plan) from the builder so that we can work on designs.