There are a lot of variables that effect pool costs.
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.

Your electric bill will vary depending on if you have a spa/waterfall. An average pool generates between $50-$100 per month, but we DO have energy efficient pumps available that lower your electric cost up to 75%.

Chemicals will vary depending upon your water. From talking to our customers, the average chlorine/acid cost is about $10 per month.

From the day the pool is excavated, a pool takes about 30-45 working days.
If you live in the city limits, your pool could take a little longer due to city inspections. Keep in mind, if it rains in any of our build areas, it will take longer, even if it isn't raining at your home.

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.

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.

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!

Cartridge Filters Cleaning:
On new pool, clean twice in first 2 months then every time 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 Cleaning:
On new pool, clean twice in first 2 months then every time pressure rises 10lbs.
To Clean: Comes with a valve. Turn the valve to "backwash mode" until filter is clean. Replenish powder.

The types of decking available are; brushed concrete, pea gravel, kool deck, sundek, brick pavers, and flagstone. They are all good for around swimming pools. Wood decks look nice too but do not hold up as well around water.

People think of pool drains like bathtub drains. Actually pool main drains are for circulation purposes mainly. 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.

Financing is available from 0 down and sometimes as long as 25 years. If you are credit challenged or get denied, we do have other sources to apply with.

We offer a lifetime transferable warranty on the structure and 3 years parts/labor on the equipment.

Pools are usually excavated with a "bobcat type" tractor. We will need approximately 6'-8' side to side clearance. Let us come look at your property.

Gunite is a mixture of cement/sand that is much stronger that concrete. With the proper steel ( 8" O.C.), we offer the Lifetime Structural Warranty.

Coping is the 9" - 1' edge around the water. It is bullnose brick or flagstone but many other stones are available.

A Fill line is a PVC line we can install that will enable you to turn a faucet to fill your pool with water as needed.

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.

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 8" Centers, giving you MUCH more strength.

Bigger is not always better. Get the right pump for your pool. Determine gallons, pump flow rate and see which size will save you the most in electric cost. A good general number to use is: 1HP Pump for pools 70 perimeter to 89 perimeter 1.5 HP Pump for pools 90 perimeter and up 2HP Pump for Pools with Spa

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.

Diving pools - minimum 34' long and 8' deep. Slides - install where there is 14' water in front and at least 4 1/2' 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!

Cash or Finance (see financing) Once you have your money, you pay for the pool on a Draw Schedule. You pay as we build.

NO! There is no tax on swimming pools.

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 Owner's Assoc. doesn't have any guidelines which will prevent your from your pool.
3. You might 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.

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.