Pools

Building a pool is a big project with many choices to consider, so homeowners can sometimes feel a little intimidated by the process and what comes after. Luckily, knowing the common misconceptions about building a pool and pool ownership will help you avoid assumptions that can stop you from making the best decisions when it comes to your pool. 

Familiarize yourself with these ten common misconceptions and you’ll be ahead of the pool building game.

1. Only the Very Wealthy Can Afford Inground Pools

Not true! While above ground pools will always be a less expensive option, professionally built inground pools can be a really economical choice for homeowners. First of all, having an inground pool adds considerable value to your property. If you ever decide to sell your home, having an inground pool is a major plus for buyers. Secondly, while an above ground pool lasts for about 10-15 years, an inground pool can last up to 50 years if properly maintained. Also, as technology has evolved, there are now more ways than ever to cut costs by investing in energy-efficient pool equipment. 

2. Licensing Is Required for Pool Builders

This would be reassuring if it were true. Unfortunately, anyone (including homeowners) can build a pool, which means you MUST do your homework before signing a contract with a pool builder. How long have they been in business and why did they go into business in the first place? Take your time and ask for referrals. To be sure you’re dealing with professionals, ask to see a copy of their liability insurance and state contractor’s license. 

3. Permits Are Not Required for Homeowners

It might seem like a hassle to get a permit, but homeowners absolutely do need a permit for pool construction. Your CITY swimming pool builder should be able to advise you on obtaining a permit. The pool building experts at COMPANY NAME can help guide you through the simple actions you need to take to get this first essential step done.  

4. The Swimming Pool Builder Guarantee Lasts After the Business Collapses

Unfortunately, if your pool builder goes under, any guarantees they made to you will no longer be valid. More than likely, your product guarantees will still be okay, but you’ll be without support from the company that built your pool. Don’t sign any proposals or contracts for pool construction until you’re satisfied with the reputation of the company.

5. Pools are a Great DIY Project

Yikes! Even though you’ll find articles and videos on the internet about how to build your own pool, this is definitely a project you won’t want to do yourself. Inground pools, and even above ground pools, are best built by professionals with experience. Your backyard terrain is unique and may require special considerations to make sure your pool is built correctly. Try to do it yourself and you’re bound to suffer harsh economic setbacks and disappointments.  

6. Pools Require Too Much Maintenance

Unlike pool construction, pool maintenance is easy. As long as you’re equipped with the right equipment, maintenance can take as little as ten minutes per week. You can always reduce your cleaning time with automated cleaners or robotic pool cleaners that vacuum your pool floor. Some units can even wash difficult-to-reach areas like walls, steps, and coves.   

7. Pools Need to be Closed for Winter

This is an individual choice rather than a requirement depending on your geographical location. If you plan on leaving town or not using your pool over the fall or winter, then by all means close it, but continue to maintain it in the meantime. 

8.  Emptying the Pool is Part of Regular Maintenance

Absolutely not. In fact, most pool builders strongly advise pool owners against emptying their pools because it can cause irreparable damage to the pool’s structure — especially if you’re dealing with an older pool. If you have to drain your pool for any reason, get a professional to do it for you. 

 9. A Clean Pool Smells like Chlorine

Luckily, a well-managed pool has no odor. If your pool has a strong “chlorine” smell, it’s an indication that it’s full of “chloramines” and needs to be cleaned. In fact, chloramines can actually be eliminated with chlorine. “Shock treatment” is a cleaning process that adds extra chlorine to destroy the compounds that combine with chlorine to create chloramines. 

10. Pools are Expensive to Operate

Undoubtedly, a pool will increase your monthly bills, but it doesn’t need to break the bank. Today there are a number of energy-efficient pumps that can be added during or after pool construction, as well as solar-heating pool covers to help cut back on any heating costs.

Whenever you have questions or concerns about pool ownership, doing research and making sure you have the right information is essential. Contact a reputable pool builder in your area today!