There is nothing like jumping into a cool pool in the heat of the summer. It’s refreshing and rejuvenating. Whether you live in a warm climate and want an outdoor pool that you can use most of the year or you live in a cooler climate and want an indoor pool you can use all year, there are a few questions you should ask potential pool builders.
May I See Your Portfolio?
You may or may not have an idea of the type of pool you want. You might enjoy a more natural look, or you could want a traditional rectangular pool. Do you want stones, waterfalls, fire features, an infinity edge, etc.? You should find a company that offers several types of swimming pool installations in Cincinnati Ohio or wherever you live.
As you review the companies’ portfolios, choose features you like and ask whether the companies can combine features to create your dream pool.
How Long Have You Been in Business?
In most cases, you want a well-established company with several years of experience in your area. Avoid companies that have recently changed names or ownership or have declared bankruptcy or gone out of business in the past. Do some online research to verify their answers.
Companies that change names or ownership may have other financial, quality and reputational problems. Avoid these companies. Also, avoid those who have gone through bankruptcy or gone out of business because you don’t want a partially finished pool if they run into financial problems again.
Can I Have a List of References?
Installing a pool is an expensive undertaking. You don’t want one that will leak or have other problems that you need to have fixed in the future. Therefore, ask for references from your potential pool contractors. Then, contact these individuals. Ask them questions about their experiences with the builder.
Do You Provide Maintenance?
Many pool companies can help you with regular maintenance or they can recommend a swimming pool service technician. Find out what kind of maintenance your pool requires and how often you need to do it. Newer pools may have self-cleaning features, but this does not eliminate the need for regular cleaning and upkeep.
What Suppliers Do You Work With?
Pool builders work with several suppliers, and pool vendors are some of the best sources of information about an installer. These individuals can tell you whether the pool company pays its bills on time, orders from them regularly or keeps their word.
Do You Offer Warranties?
Find out about any protection the company offers if something goes wrong. Make sure they honour their advertising, including pricing. Also, discuss lien waivers and request proof of vendor payments.
Are You Licensed and Insured?
Request to see any licensing required by your state and city. Then, ask about the contractors’ general liability and worker’s compensation insurance. Ask for the insurance companies the builders use. Request a copy of the insurance certificates, and consider contacting the insurance companies to verify their accounts.
It may seem like a lot of extra work to interview and research your pool vendors, but it could save a lot of heartache in the future. Do your due diligence so you can truly enjoy your dream pool.
