10 Questions to Ask Your Arkansas Pool Builder

There is quite a bit of planning that goes into building a pool in a backyard. The more the pool builder knows about what you want out of your new pool, the happier you will be with the results, but you should ensure you understand what your options are. When you begin the process of having a new pool built, take the time to ask your Arkansas pool builder questions. Find out what styles of pools are available, learn more about shape, finishes and other design suggestions.

1 – How long will it take to have the pool installed?

Before the installation process begins, you should find out how long it may take for the company to have the pool built and then installed in your backyard. Depending on the availability of the pool company, you may have to plan months in ahead.

2 – Can you provide a price quote?

Once you have discussed your specifications and the builder has an idea of what you are looking for in terms of type of pool, size and design, ask them if they will be able to provide a price quote. For more custom pool projects, most builders are uneasy giving a price quote without first inspecting the site and having a design consultation with the homeowner. This is a good practice as every backyard is different. In order for your bid to be reliable, it should take into account any unique construction or installation requirements of your site. Also, once they’ve inspected your site, a builder can give you more informed design recommendations that will ensure your pool fits within your landscape, taking advantage of your property’s strong points while compensating for any issues or flaws.

3 – Do you have any customer reviews or referrals I can read?

You should always look at what other customers have thought about a pool company after doing business with them. Ask the builder if they can point you to a third party website like Yelp! or Angie’s List containing reviews on their company, or if they can put you in contact with any past customers.

4 – How much maintenance is needed to maintain the pool?

You should know what you are getting into before choosing to build a pool. In addition to the initial cost of installation, you’ll need to be prepared for an ongoing commitment of money and time for maintenance and upkeep. Learn as much as you can about the maintenance process and what is involved in testing water and keeping a pool operating smoothly so that you can make an informed decision.

5 – What kind of water features do you offer with your pools?

Water features are becoming more popular, as they add a fun attraction to a pool area. Find out what types of water features they can install and whether they have any other pool additions or options to choose from. Keep in mind that your water feature options could be influenced by what kind of pool you are planning on purchasing. For example, not all water features available with a custom concrete pool would be available for an above ground or fiberglass pool.

6 – What other services do you offer?

Many pool companies have a range of backyard services. In addition to designing and installing a backyard pool, they may be able to help you plan the perfect pool area, including decking, covered patio areas, outdoor kitchens, pool remodeling and landscaping.

7 – Are you licensed and insured?

As with any major home renovation, you should ensure the people working on your property are insured by the pool company. You do not want to be liable in the event of an accident or injury. Make sure the company has all licenses required by law and that they are up to date. It’s also important to understand what kind of insurance they carry. General liability will protect you and the builder if one of their workers gets injured on your property. Also ask if they are bonded. Some builders carry performance bonds to give homeowners extra assurance. Performance bonds will protect you from project abandonment so you don’t have to worry about getting stuck with an unfinished pool in your backyard should the company meet hard times.

8 – Do you have examples of past pool installations?

Find out if they have any pictures or examples of past pool designs or installation jobs. This will give a better idea of the quality of the work they perform and the scale of their projects.

If you haven’t checked out our galleries later, take a look! We regularly update our portfolio with new pool pictures of recent projects.

9 – What local codes and regulations need to be adhered to?

Your Arkansas pool builder should be aware of all the local regulations involved with building your new swimming pool. Keep in mind that your homeowners association may have additional regulations specific to your community, but the builder should be able to find these out beforehand. As far as general local and state regulations and the necessary permits, your pool builder should be able to provide you with all the information you need.

We’d be happy to answer any of your questions regarding permitting and codes in your neighborhood. Just give us a call!

10 – Can you provide an overview of the pool design and installation process?

It’s important you know what to expect of the pool design and construction process. Ask for an overview of their process. Not only will this help paint a picture of the steps that go into building a pool, the explanation may help you come up with additional questions or concerns and give in insight into how organized (or disorganized) the company is.

Learn more about our pool design and construction process here!

These 10 questions are just a sampling of what you should think about when discussing pool installation with a professional pool builder. Make a list of other questions you have more specific to your needs or pool plans before you begin contacting local pool builders.

If you are looking for an experienced and reliable pool builder in Arkansas or Oklahoma, contact the experts at Burton Pools and Spas. We’d be happy to answer any questions that you may have about the pool planning and construction process.

ABOUT BURTON POOLS & SPA

For 37 years, Burton Pools & Spas has been the premier provider of swimming pools, hot tubs, and outdoor recreation equipment in Western Arkansas, Eastern Oklahoma, Southwest Missouri and just about everywhere in between. Burton Pools creates beautiful backyard environments that brings friends and families together for outdoor fun and memories that will last a lifetime.

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