Swimming pool design guide will give you ideas for that dream pool you want, from concrete pools, above ground pools and even fiberglass pools.

FREE Pool Design Guide

Download our FREE 25-page Swimming Pool Design Guide and create a perfect paradise in your backyard.

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Prepping for a New PoolYou’re about to dive into a pool design and construction project—and you can already see the final results when you look into the backyard of your Westchester property. There’s a sun shelf where you can chill on a chaise lounge, and a waterfall that sounds like an afternoon at the beach. You’ve also planned for a patio entertainment space where friends and family can gather. 

You know what the end game will look like. But what can you expect during the installation process? 

Understanding what steps your pool contractor will take to prepare you (and your property) for pool installation is important because you’ll get a feel for the timeline, subcontractors involved and potential challenges. When you go into a pool project with your eyes wide open, you’ll enjoy the entire experience of pool design/build and you’ll have an even greater appreciation for the final product and your investment in it.

So, what is involved in getting an in-ground pool project started? Here are five questions to ask about the pool process so you can get ready for a pro like Neave Pools to build your new luxury swimming pool. 

#1 What Is the Budget for Your Pool? 

Preparing for Pool InstallationFirst, talk to the pool designer about what luxury features are available. The pool industry is constantly evolving, and while elements like an infinity edge or waterfall have been around for years, there are newer pool trends that might suit your lifestyle better—like a zero entry, also known as a Baja shelf or sun shelf. Find out what is available and decide what’s most important to you and others who will use the pool. 

Most people have to set priorities because budgets are all about limits. And, if you go into a pool project without prioritizing which pool features are must-haves vs. nice-to-haves, you will wind up disappointed when the estimate for your project blows your budget out of the water. 

So, be realistic about what you can afford, yet realize that a pool will increase your real estate value and provide a space at home to make memories. You can’t put a price tag on that. Talk to the pool contractor about payment plans and any loan programs the firm suggests. Discuss the option to complete a pool and outdoor living space in phases so you can get everything you want over time. 

>>Take-Away Tip: Setting a pool budget before you go into the design process will prevent the disappointment of seeing a luxury pool rendering that isn’t financially realistic for your family. 

#2 What is the Main Purpose of the Pool? 

Questions to Ask About Pool InstallationIs your pool mostly for play—a place where your children, family and neighbors will spend hours splashing, playing Marco Polo and swooshing down a waterslide? Or is it a leisure pool that sets the mood for your outdoor living space and offers a place to sunbathe and dip your toes in the water? Perhaps your pool needs to be a combination recreation zone and adult after-hours hub. 

>>Take-Away Tip: Seriously consider how you will use the pool and discuss this with your pool contractor. That way, everyone will be on the same page when creating the design. 

#3 What Are the Local Zoning and Pool Permit Requirements? 

The last thing you want is to have a pool built and fail the inspection. Or, to have a pool builder refuse to take responsibility for acquiring permits and inspections. Before beginning any pool project, ask the contractor who will get the building permit, ensure all local zoning requirements are met, and arrange for the final inspection. 

>>Take-Away Tip: The “red tape” of building a pool is critical. Neglecting these steps can result in significant fines and you could end up spending more on getting issues fixed that are not up to code. 

#4 How Long Will It Take To Build A Pool?

This is the question we usually get first when someone calls us to assess their property for a pool. We understand. Once you put down a deposit and begin the design process, the anticipation builds. When will it be done? How soon can you plan your pool party? Will you have enough time to use your new pool before our New England weather turns? 

Unfortunately, we can never provide exact timelines on how long building your pool will take because there are variables with every project. We must account for the topography of your property, the excavation process and potential issues we might confront during this step. We also figure in time to install plumbing and electrical, pour the pool foundation and finish features like the tile, pool deck and so on. 

We can tell you with certainty that you will not have a finished pool in a week. Building a luxury swimming pool takes time and requires the craftsmanship of specialists who work together on a team to bring a pool design to life. However, generally speaking, once construction has started  the pool projects we build take anywhere from 8 to 10 weeks. 

>>Take-Away Tip: Talk candidly with your pool contractor about how long each step in the pool building process takes. Some pools are more complex to build than others. If the contractor tells you a time that seems too good to be true, it probably is.

#5 Who Will Be Involved in Building the Pool?

 One thing to know about building a pool is that your backyard is going to be very busy with trades professionals and certified pool installers, along with crewmembers and an account manager that will check in to keep the project on track. Prepare for this by asking the pool contractor who else is involved in the project. That way, you will not be surprised to find a subcontractor arrive one day to place tile or a mason who specializes in pool foundations.

>>Take-Away Tip: Building a pool is a major project and it involves a team of pros. Find out who will be on your property, and ask the pool contractor how they will adhere to social distancing and COVID-19 safety and sanitary procedures.

Prepare for a New Pool This Season 

As we head into summer, you’ve got plenty of time to enjoy a brand-new swimming pool and spa. Permits are being issued now as we work safely through the COVID-19 pandemic. Don’t put your plans on hold—let’s create an outdoor space with a pool that will make staying at home a true pleasure.

Contact us at 845-463-0592 in Hudson Valley, 914-271-7996 in Westchester and 203-212-4800 in Connecticut. Or, fill out our contact form and we’ll get in touch with you.

 

Swimming pool design guide will give you ideas for that dream pool you want, from concrete pools, above ground pools and even fiberglass pools.

FREE Pool Design Guide

Download our FREE 25-page Swimming Pool Design Guide and create a perfect paradise in your backyard.

Download Now