Finding the Right Contractor for Your New Pool

If you have finally decided it is time to add a pool to your home or replace an outdated model, you need an experienced pool contractor. While there are plenty of companies out there that will be more than happy to get your business, you want to make sure your new pool is installed to last for many years to come. Taking the time to find the right contractor that guarantees their work and has a solid reputation can save you thousands of dollars in repairs down the road. Here are a few things to check for when hiring your new pool contractor:

Warranty on Your Pool

Installing a new pool is a large expense, so you want to make sure it will last. Although most pool contractors will offer some type of warranty, not all warranties are created equal. Before hiring a contractor, ask about their warranty on:

  • Pool shell. Quality pool contractors will offer a lifetime warranty on your pool shell, so make sure your shell is covered.
  • Pool equipment. The equipment for your pool is mechanical and can be expected to need repairs and maintenance. However, a good contractor will offer a warranty of at least three years on pool equipment.
  • Leaks. Many contractors don’t warranty against leaks but the higher quality companies will guarantee against leaks for up to two years.

In addition to good warranties, you want a contractor that will make the process of installing a new pool easy from start to finish. Look for a contractor that offers 3D overviews on design so you can envision what your new pool will look like and be there through the final stage of filling up your new pool to ensure everything is working correctly.

Getting the right contractor for your new pool can make all the difference, so do your research before hiring any pool company.

Posted on behalf of Somar Pool Service & Repairs
4581 Weston Road
Weston, FL 33331
(954) 840-8544

Fiberglass Versus Cement Swimming Pools

There is no end to the debates on which type of pool is better, fiberglass or cement. Most information you read is geared toward one or the other for sales purposes, making it difficult to know which is the best option. In truth, there is not a better option, only a better choice for the individual. Each has its own benefits and drawbacks, depending on what qualities you’re looking for in a pool.

Cement Pools

One of the most popular reasons for people to choose a cement pool is aesthetics. Cement pools can be custom designed, making them fantastic for those looking for a specific shape or design. They can be created to any size or depth, with many architectural aspects like tanning ledges and vanishing edges that are so popular right now.

Beyond design, however, there are drawbacks to a cement pool. Number one, these pools can require more maintenance and long term costs than a fiberglass pool. Most cement pools will need resurfacing after 10 or more years, plus require maintenance to keep algae at bay.

Fiberglass Pools

Although fiberglass pools offer somewhat limited design options, for many they are a better choice when it comes to long term maintenance and costs. Fiberglass shells are nonporous, making them resistant to algae, requiring fewer chemicals and less cleaning. Additionally, the fiberglass surface will not need the resurfacing that cement pools will need every 10-20 years.

Though cost efficient in the long term, fiberglass pools are quite limited in size and design. Most can only be sixteen feet wide since they must be able to be transported easily. For those who want a particular shape or exotic design for their pool, fiberglass pools may not give them the options they desire.

As far as initial costs, both cement and fiberglass pools can be comparable in price. The best choice for you will depend on your own priorities; design versus maintenance.  Your local pool builder can give you more information to help you decide which is the right pool for you and your home.

Posted on behalf of Somar Pools, LLC

Custom Pool Construction

As with practically everything else these days, the advantages of new computer technologies have opened up the realm of possibilities in the area of pool design, as well as building techniques. Pools are no longer either oval or rectangular, or limited to ceramic tile. The possibilities today are practically endless when it comes to designing or building your ideal pool.

Your local swimming pool contractor can custom design your pool to your individual style and specifications, as well as quality craftsmanship. Today’s indoor and outdoor pools can be designed and built  using a wide variety of high quality materials for your choosing. Pool builders can design your pool to begin with a zero depth, wade-in, entry or have an infinity pool where the edge just seems to disappear. Many people are even designing their pools to blend right in with their landscaping water feature, giving their pools the appearance of lazy rivers or grottos with waterfalls or waterslides.

Technology has also made it possible to design and incorporate some of the important maintenance aspects into the features of your pool. For instance, your pool systems can operate on wireless controls from your cell phone or with the use of timers. With pool automation, you can program your pool to monitor PH and sanitizer levels and maintain a certain temperature, while turning some features, like fiber optic or LED lights, on or off. Even your pool covers, hidden at the edge of the pool, can function automatically. Other pool systems such as in-floor cleaning systems, or salt chlorination systems, can also be automated. Be assured that your pool builder can develop an awe-inspiring design that meets your needs, and preferences, as well as your budget.