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Key Questions to Ask Before
Buying a Swimming Pool
How to Avoid the
Pitfalls of Owning a Swimming Pool
By Mark J.
Donovan
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So you’re thinking about buying a swimming pool. Before buying a pool,
regardless if it’s an above ground or an in-ground swimming pool, always do
your homework first. Visit several pool dealerships and learn about the
features and benefits of both types of pools. Above ground pools cost a lot
less but they typically won’t last as long as an in-ground pool. Above
ground swimming pools also require less maintenance than in-ground pools.
Liner types and quality grades are also an important consideration.
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The thicker the liner the less likelihood it will be damaged do to minor horse
play. With in-ground pools you may want to consider buying a gunite pool, or
poured concrete pool, you will get the ultimate in pool durability, as well as
cost.
When talking to swimming pool stores make sure you ask how long they have been
in business. If they’ve been around a long time, then chances are they offer
quality pools and service at an affordable price. Also ask if they have any
pools under construction and if so ask if you can visit one of the jobsites to
see how the pool is constructed and by whom. Also check the Better Business
Bureau to see what their ranking is and if there is a history of any disputes
with past customers.
Make sure to ask about swimming pool warranties. Moreover, make sure you
understand the warranty on the pool, the liner, and the installation effort.
Frequently there are different warranties for each of these.
Also ask if the pool installer is a licensed and bonded contractor. In some
states they’ll need to be and in others they will not. Check with your state to
see if they should be before hiring a pool contractor. In addition, check if
they have insurance so that in the event the pool, your property or someone on
the jobsite gets injured their insurance will cover them and protect you from
liability.
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Also ask before buying a swimming pool about instructions on how to operate the
pool. If a pool contractor just installs the pool and walks away, you may find
yourself dealing with murky water for a long time.
In addition, make sure you find out in advance who deals with all of the boxes
and other trash after the pool is installed. The pool contractor should take all
of the trash with them at the end of the installation project. |
As part of any pool installation quotation, the pool contractor should come
out and visit the site in advance before quoting you. This way you should be
able to get an accurate quote up front and prevent any unsuspecting surprises
and costs when the installers show up on your property. Moreover ask if the pool
contractor will pull any necessary permits and do the electrical work if
required. Most municipalities require a permit to install a pool, regardless if
it is an above ground or in-ground pool.
Finally, ask about pool service maintenance contracts. In some cases you may
want this service, such as opening the pool up at the beginning of the season
and closing it down at the end of the season.
If all of these questions are asked before buying a swimming pool your pool
installation and ownership experience should be a much better one.
Related Information
Pool Installation Problems
Pool Damage from Ice and Snow Video
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