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Frequently Asked Questions
What do pools cost? What are additional costs that might not come up during the sales process?
The cost of a swimming pool can vary greatly depending on many different factors. Inground concrete pools typically start around $75,000, but finish selections, additional features, and extra backyard elements will make that vary. Our designers will be able to help you determine a budget for your dream pool and any backyard essentials. Although rare, extra costs can arise from unseen construction difficulties. These can include but are not limited to, utility lines located outside of easements or hard rock formations that can prolong and complicate a pool’s excavation.
Do you build pools in small backyards?
Absolutely. While an average swimming pool might be somewhere around 30’ x 15’, smaller pools can be designed and built to accommodate smaller backyards as long as there is enough space to accommodate your city’s code requirements. Most cities require pools to sit at least five feet from the property line, and it is standard for pools to be built with a 1:1 ratio between the pool’s depth and its distance from the house’s foundation. Access for the equipment to dig the pool is also an important consideration.
Am I required to have a fence around my pool?
It is best to check with your governing municipality about what fence requirements they have regarding swimming pools. From a safety standpoint, even when fences are not required, they can add an extra measure of safety when there are children on or around the property.
How long does it take to build a swimming pool from start to finish?
The average planning and permitting process is 2-3 months. The physical construction of the pool is typically 3-4 months for an average build. More complex projects and adverse weather conditions may delay those timeframes.
How much does a spa add to the cost of a pool? What about a spa only?
Attaching a spa to the pool will add approximately $20,000 to $25,000 to the price of a pool, while a standalone inground spa will generally cost nearly as much as a basic pool due to material and labor minimums.
What do I need to get the process started for a new pool?
The most important thing you’ll need is a plot plan, otherwise called your land survey. This is the document that will tell the designer the size and shape of your yard, locate important utility easements, and determine the boundaries of your property for access. If you have an HOA, you will want to find out if they have any restrictions or rules related to swimming pools and swimming pool construction.
What financing options are available?
There are two popular loan varieties used to finance a swimming pool: a home improvement loan and a home equity loan. Home improvement loans are loans that can be made for up to 100% of the value of the home, and can be rolled into a permanent mortgage should you choose to refinance. Home equity loans on the other hand are borrowed against the home’s value, and cannot be rolled into a mortgage. Which option you choose will greatly depend on your circumstances. While you are welcome to use whichever lending company fits you best, Lyon Financial and HFS Financial are two lending companies who understand the construction process of a swimming pool and whom many of our customers have used in the past.
Do you offer free quotes?
Yes, we do. Click here if you are ready to schedule a consultation with one of our designers. They will make an appointment with you to meet at our design center where you will look through conceptual designs, completed projects, and materials to create your ideal pool project. Along with your property survey, our design team will be able to plan your pool and price out the construction cost.
We're interested in a pool, what do we do now?
What should we have ready for the designer's visit?
What if we already have a design we like or we don't like?
What size pool is best for us?
How long will it take to complete my pool?
Are there any “gray areas” (things we may overlook) that need to be allowed for?
Can you help us with landscaping, fencing, etc?
We're buying/building a new home and would like the pool in the mortgage. How do we handle this and when can you start the pool?
Why is there sometimes a wide margin of difference in price among builder?
So far, you have told us many of the same things other pool builders have. Why should we buy from you? Aren't pools basically all alike?
How does my homeowner's insurance increase when I have a swimming pool?
Is it mandatory that I have a fence?
Should I be concerned about safety?
Will I be able to understand how to care for the swimming pool?
How much does it cost to operate my pool?
How do most people finance their pool?
Gohlke Pools
