Frequently Asked Questions

Underground ledge is one of the biggest variables in pool construction, since digging is always required and we often can’t tell what’s there until we start doing so. Whether we encounter ledge or not, we use industry-standard, safe methods to handle the ledge and continue with pool construction.

We do most of this for you. Zoning approval usually comes first, but if often just a trip to the Zoning office, not necessarily a presentation to the Zoning Board. A building permit comes next and at the completion of your project, a town building inspector will have to inspect plumbing, fencing and bonding. Electrical work is not within our scope, but your electrician will also file a permit application and need to be present for that inspection.

This is a very personal choice. For individuals with skin issues, your doctor may recommend that a salt-water system would be more appropriate. A saltwater pool still gets cleaned with chlorine, yet uses a filtering system called a salt chlorine generator (by electrolysis), which uses electricity to turn salt into chlorine. In both pool types, it’s important to still check the pH levels and alkalinity of the pool so it stays sanitized and the chemicals stay balanced. The cost of a saltwater pool is initially more than a chlorine pool. That’s because a saltwater system can cost around $1000 – $2000 plus installation. But over time, it may save you money because you won’t have to regularly buy chlorine tablets.

Before gunite is applied to a pool, a steel frame is installed in the shape of your pool. Most builders will tie their steel grid together 10” – 12” apart. All of our pools are tied closer together, at only 6” – 8” apart, creating a stronger structure for the gunite to adhere to. In fact, the plaster finish on the gunite will likely crack long before the actual gunite is ever compromised.

Many variables come into play here. The quality of the construction, regular maintenance including proper water chemistry are all things that matter for pool longevity. “Marble dust” was an old technique used to finish a gunite pool. This would only last 8 -10 years. Today, the quartz-based plaster finishes can last 18 – 25 years before cracking. Likewise, a quality vinyl liner pool can last up to 20 years or so.

Most of our customers opt to install a heater with their new pool. When appropriately heated, most customers choose to open their pool in April and close it as late as mid-October.

Temperature is another one of those personal preferences and cost considerations. On average, with the expense of new pool electrical equipment, additional monthly electrical costs may run $50 – $100.

We truly pride ourselves in the custom nature of our design and installation services. There are too many variables to attempt average pricing without an initial consultation. Things like required site work, pool size and design, equipment, masonry, fencing and landscaping all come into play. Please don’t hesitate to contact us for a free evaluation and estimate, based on your individual needs.

Yes, as much sun as possible is the perfect scenario of course, but pools remain excellent options for enjoyment even in challenging situations. Ideally, good Southern exposure allows for the most sunlight. Prevailing winds are less of a concern because as some companies plan to have the wind blow debris into your skimmers, we excel at efficient designs that make placement of your water returns the most important factor in effective skimming. We essentially attempt to create a “whirlpool” effect in your pool so that surface debris is always on its way to the nearest skimmer

Most customers can expect to invest $50-$80 per month on pool maintenance chemicals. This includes chloring (or bromine), algaecides, clarifiers, stain and scale preventers and pool shock, but does not include the labor costs of monthly cleaning if you were to hire a service. Remember, while sun eats chemicals, salt doesn’t go anywhere, so it is true that a saltwater pool costs a little less to maintain. Overall, depending on the weather and your level of maintenance, these costs can vary.