Key Access - San Diego Pools

Q. How do I select the right pool builder?
A. First check references! Not all pool contractors have the same skill level or reputation for quality work. A reliable, qualified builder should be pleased to provide you with at least 100 references of previous projects that you can contact or inspect in person. If you like the work he has completed, you probably will like the job he does for you. Does the builder belong to the "Big Three? Most experienced contractors with a solid background belong to three important organizations: the Better Business Bureau, the National Spa and Pool Institute, and the Building Industry Association. These memberships signify that he is a licensed, active member of the building industry and concerned with maintaining high standards. Does the pool builder have a showroom? and awards? What is the length of time the pool builder has been in business and have they ever filed for bankruptcy?

Q. How do I protect myself financially?
A.What bank does the pool builder do business with and will your checks be made out to a business account or a personal account? Who is the pool builders insurance company and will they provide certificates of insurance? Is the pool builder licensed and bonded ? Does the pool builder agree to use subcontractors who are insured licensed and bonded? Will lien releases be provided? Can the pool builder provide the names and numbers of three suppliers they have done business with at least five years? At San Diego Pools, we believe our expertise in construction, our experience in all types of challenges, and our effort to provide supreme service to all customers is not matched in the pool industry.

Q. Are there any hidden charges?
A. Review contracts carefully. Be sure you clarify exactly what is covered in your contract. Are there any extra charges that may not be included, such as rock removal or dump fees? Is removal of sod or old structures and trees included? What happens in the event of damage to access ways, fences, sprinklers, sidewalks and driveways? Who pays for this? Get answers to these questions before signing the contract.

Q. I sometimes see advertisements promising pools at very low prices. Should I buy a pool like this?
A. It is possible to build a pool at a very low price. Cost-cutting measures shouldn't indude a reduction in quality. A professional pool builder is able to design a budget pool with the same high standards of quality as more expensive pools. The quality of construction makes a difference in how well your pool holds up over the years. This means engineering the pool to withstand the unusual soil condition in San Diego, not just meet minimum building standards. Your pool should be designed to meet the test of time as well as the test of fun!

Q. Why do cost estimates vary when the pools seem to be the same?
A. Review contracts carefully. Be sure you clarify exactly what is covered in your contract. Are there any extra charges that may not be included, such as rock removal or dump fees? Is removal of sod or old structures and trees included? What happens in the event of damage to access ways, fences, sprinklers, sidewalks and driveways? Who pays for this? Get answers to these questions before signing the contract.

Q. What if I have a small of difficult yard to work with?
A. Few people today have Olympic sized yards. A free-form pool with a spa can be designed to complement almost any size yard, even the smallest.

Q. What options are available to add to my pool?
A. Technology is changing at an unprecedented rate, at swimming pools are no exception. Innovative water treatment options, fiber-optic lighting, spa products, remote controls, automatic cleaning systems, and may other options are available now to make your pool easier and more enjoyable than ever.
Tell us what you would like to do...and we can show you how to do it.

Q. How should I decide on the design of my pool?
A. How you intend to use your pool. Is exercise important? How about family use? Where will the pool look best when viewed from your home? If you have small children, you can have the pool built shallow at one end for safe wading and playing, and six feet deep at the other end for swimming. Also, if you like water sports such as volleyball and water polo, the pool can be designed with greater depth in the center to accommodate these activities.

Q. Is financing readily available for this type of project?
A. The design and installation of a swimming pool is considered "home improvement," and most financial institutions are anxious to loan you money for they type of work. When completed, your pool adds substantial value to your property. Another financing consideration is the probability that all interest costs on your loan will be tax deductible, which helps reduce the actual cost of your investment. We stay constantly in touch with the leading financial institutions in your area and can provide you with information and assistance in obtaining easy financing for your swimming pool project .