Planning
How to Compare Competing Estimates
Comparing Apples to Oranges...
When obtaining multiple estimates for a swimming pool project, homeowners often struggle to understand why prices vary so greatly. The reality is, it’s usually impossible to make a true “apples to apples” comparison because each company’s offerings, construction methods, and included services can differ drastically. One contractor’s bid might include a comprehensive, turn-key backyard transformation, while another’s focuses only on the pool itself – leaving out key items like electrical hookups, decking, or even required safety features. In the end, a higher price may simply mean more is included or built to a higher standard, but it’s up to you to dig into the details and find out.
Getting Started:
Look for Omissions in the Scope of Work
The first step in comparing pool estimates is understanding exactly what each quote covers (and what it doesn’t). Make sure each estimate represents a complete scope of work for a finished, code-compliant pool. For example, one company might install the pool shell but won’t haul away the excess dirt or handle utility connections, leaving those tasks (and costs) to you. Another builder may include the pool and patio but exclude the mandatory safety fence, expecting the homeowner to arrange it separately. It’s imperative to identify such omissions upfront.
When examining pool estimates, pay special attention to critical construction details and commonly overlooked costs. Below, we break down key points to compare – from technical construction specs for gunite and fiberglass pools to general project components that should be included in any pool quote. Making sure you account for these will help ensure you’re truly comparing apples to apples between competing offers.
Gunite Pool Construction: Key Points to Compare
A robust rebar cage under construction for a gunite pool. Proper engineering and materials (like thicker steel reinforcement) are crucial for structural strength and longevity.
Engineered Structure
Confirm whether the gunite (concrete) pool shell will be designed or approved by a structural engineer. This is important because an engineered pool is built to withstand soil pressure, water load, and other forces; without proper engineering, concrete pools can develop cracks, leaks, or even structural failure.
An engineer will specify the concrete strength, wall thickness, and steel reinforcement needed for your specific soil and site conditions, greatly enhancing the pool’s stability and lifespan. If a company skips this step, they may be building to minimal standards (or guesswork), which could pose safety risks down the road.
Steel Rebar Size & Layout
The steel reinforcement grid (“rebar”) inside a gunite pool is its backbone. Compare the rebar size and spacing each builder uses. Many quality builders use #4 rebar (½-inch diameter) steel bars throughout the pool for added strength, whereas some cut costs by using #3 rebar (³/₈-inch) which is thinner. The difference may sound small, but side by side it’s significant for structural integrity. Likewise, tighter spacing of the rebar mesh (e.g. 6 inches on-center vs. 10 inches) results in a stronger shell.
If one estimate notes a reinforced bond beam or extra rebar around openings (like a spa or steps) and the other doesn’t, that could explain a price gap – and indicate which pool will be built to handle stress better. The cost difference in using thicker steel is minimal, but the quality difference is substantial, so this is a prime area where “cheaper” bids might be skimping.
Concrete Thickness
Ask about the intended thickness of the gunite shell. To be structurally sound in the clay soils of Central Virginia, a concrete pool shell shouwl be at least 8 inches thick throughout (with even more thickness in certain areas like the floors or bond beam, depending on engineering). Some lower-cost builders might shoot thinner walls to save on material, which compromises strength. Thicker concrete walls (per proper design) mean a more durable pool that’s less likely to crack.
Don’t be afraid to ask each builder how thick they apply gunite in walls and floors – it’s a telling indicator of quality.
Interior Finish (Plaster vs. Upgrades)
Gunite pools require an interior finish coating. Find out what each builder is including – plain white plaster or an upgraded finish. White plaster (sometimes called marcite) is the basic, entry-level finish. It gives a classic bright-blue water look and is smooth to the touch, but it’s also the least durable option. Over time, white plaster can stain, etch, or become blotchy and will likely need resurfacing after 7–10 years. Upgraded finishes, such as those offered by Wet Edge Technologies (or similar brands like PebbleTec), incorporate aggregates like quartz, pebbles, or polished stones into the plaster. These aggregate finishes come in various colors and textures – they not only look more luxurious, but the mixed-in quartz/pebble material is much harder and more chemically resistant than standard plaster. That means they typically last longer (often 15–20+ years with good care), resist staining, and maintain their color better.
They do cost more upfront – sometimes a few thousands more, depending on the product – but they add both beauty and longevity. Make sure you’re comparing the same type of finish: a pool quote that includes a premium pebble finish will naturally cost more than one with basic plaster. If the quotes differ here, understand the trade-offs and decide which finish aligns with your expectations for appearance, maintenance, and lifespan.
Startup and Plaster Curing Care
A newly plastered gunite pool needs special care in its first days and weeks. Brushing the plaster twice daily during the initial curing period is critical to achieve a smooth surface and prevent issues. This process (along with carefully balancing the water chemistry) removes plaster dust and helps the finish hydrate and harden properly.
When reviewing estimates, check if start-up maintenance services are included. Does the pool builder handle the initial plaster brushing, filter cleaning, and chemical balancing for the first four weeks after filling? High-end companies often include a “startup” program where they send a tech to brush the pool walls and vacuum out plaster dust daily, because they know how vital this is for the finish’s longevity. Other builders might give you instructions and expect you to do the brushing (multiple times a day) or hire a pool service separately.
If a quote does not include start-up care, be prepared for that responsibility or the extra expense. Proper curing and start-up maintenance will directly impact how beautiful and long-lasting your plaster finish will be, so an estimate that includes it adds real value (and saves you a lot of work).
Fiberglass Pool Construction: Key Points to Compare
When comparing estimates for fiberglass pools, the focus shifts from on-site concrete work to the quality of the pre-manufactured shell and the installation method. Not all fiberglass pools (or installers) are equal, so here are specific things to look for:
Shell Manufacturer & Quality
Identify the manufacturer of the fiberglass shell each company plans to install. There are many makers of fiberglass pools, and reputation matters. Top-tier brands like Latham Pools or Imagine Pools are known for stringent quality control, durable materials, and strong warranties. For instance, Latham offers some of the best warranties in the industry (often product-dependent, with structural warranties that can be lifetime transferable). Imagine Pools similarly provides a lifetime structural warranty on their shells (and around a 10-year surface warranty), reflecting confidence in their product. A lesser-known or discount manufacturer might offer a weaker warranty or none at all. Thin spots, weak areas, or resin inconsistencies in a cheaply made shell could lead to cracks or bulges later.
So, if one bid comes with a shell from a reputable brand and another from an unheard-of source, factor that into your evaluation. A quality fiberglass shell should have uniform thickness, a strong gelcoat finish, and ideally features like UV inhibitors to prevent fading. Ask about the brand and model of the pool, and do a little research – a bargain pool shell that fails can ruin your investment.
Quality Assurance
Shell Inspection
Another question to ask the fiberglass pool builders: Do they thoroughly inspect the shell upon delivery and address any issues before installation? Reputable installers will examine the pool shell for any manufacturing defects such as thin layers, bubbles, warps, or hairline cracks in the gelcoat. If something is found, they should either repair it (if minor and agreed upon) or refuse the shell and get a new one from the manufacturer. While major defects are rare with top brands, they can happen (for example, a shell built too thin might arrive with some gelcoat spider cracking as seen in this photo).
The best companies have a “reject on defect” policy – they won’t install a subpar shell just to stay on schedule. They might also do things like a light test or tap test to check for hollow spots. If one contractor makes a point of their quality checks and another doesn’t mention it, that’s a clue. It may not be a line-item cost, but it speaks to diligence. Ultimately, you want the peace of mind that your fiberglass pool has no hidden weak spots before it goes in the ground.
Even with easy access using smaller equipment, this pool is being set with a crane to ensure a smooth installation without excess movement that can cause cracking.
Installation Method: Crane vs 'Manhandled'
How the fiberglass shell is delivered into your backyard and set into the hole is crucial. A proper install often involves using a crane to lift and lower the shell carefully into the excavation. Craning a pool shell might look dramatic (sometimes they even have to lift it over the house!), but it allows the shell to be kept level and steady during placement. Using a crane minimizes flexing of the fiberglass and avoids impacts – thereby preventing stress cracks or warping that can occur if the shell is handled roughly.
Some companies try to save money by not using a crane, instead using an excavator, skid-steer, or improvised rollers to drag or drop the shell in. While skilled crews can sometimes manage without a crane, these methods carry higher risk. If the shell is jostled or dropped unevenly, the gelcoat can spider crack. In fact, industry experts have observed shells cracking when installers rushed or used loaders over uneven ground. Using the appropriate size crane (and rigging the pool with straps and guide ropes) ensures a gentle, controlled set.
It does cost extra – crane rentals can run hundreds or even a few thousand dollars depending on the size and reach required – but it’s money well spent to protect your pool. When comparing quotes, note whether crane delivery and set is included. A lower bid that forgoes a crane might save a buck but could literally bend your new pool.
This pool was filled slowly with a hose and backfilled equally with clean gravel to ensure no bulging or cave ins of the fiberglass shell.
Proper Backfill & Water Filling Procedure
The installation technique for fiberglass pools can greatly affect the pool’s longevity. A critical best practice is to fill the pool with water at the same time as backfilling around it. As the shell is lowered and leveled, the crew should add water inside the pool incrementally while simultaneously adding backfill material (typically clean gravel) around the exterior. This keeps equal pressure on both sides of the fiberglass shell and firmly supports the walls. If a builder merely drops in the shell and backfills without adding water, or uses sand/dirt instead of gravel, the shell is at risk of shifting, bulging inward or outward, or “floating” if groundwater is present.
Ask each builder: Do you use gravel or crushed stone backfill? Do you fill the pool with water in tandem with backfilling?
Quality builders will answer yes. (Gravel backfill, though a bit more expensive, doesn’t settle like sand, and it allows for better drainage around the pool.) If an estimate includes language about proper backfill and concurrent filling, that’s a good sign – it means the installer is following the right steps, even though it’s more labor and material. A cheaper quote might cut corners here (for example, using excavated soil as backfill or not coordinating the fill rates), which could lead to problems like wall bulges or plumbing leaks later.
Tile and Finishing Touches
One aesthetic detail to compare is waterline tile. Unlike gunite pools (which almost always have a perimeter tile band at the waterline), fiberglass pools don’t require tile – the gelcoat surface extends to the coping. Many fiberglass pool packages therefore do not include tile by default to keep costs down. However, some homeowners choose to add ceramic or glass tile along the waterline of a fiberglass pool for the look of it or to integrate with other design elements.
One company’s base price might exclude any tile, while another’s higher price could be including a decorative tile allowance. If having tile is important to you, ensure it’s noted; if not, understand that its absence in a quote is normal. Just don’t let tile (or lack thereof) be a surprise line item later.
All pool types
Other Common Inclusions and Exclusions in Pool Estimates
Beyond the pool shell and structure itself, a truly turn-key pool project involves many components across different trades. Often, discrepancies in quotes come from whether these peripheral items are included. Here are some general items you should look for in any pool estimate – confirm if they’re included, and if so, to what extent or specification:
Pool Coping
Coping is the material (stone, paver, or concrete) used to cap the top edge of the pool shell and provide a finished border around the pool. It’s both functional (covering the bond beam or fiberglass flange and helping secure the pool surround) and decorative. Don’t assume coping is automatically included in a base pool price. One bid might include natural stone coping (e.g. 14" bluestone treads all around) as part of the package, whereas another bid might list coping as an optional upgrade or include only a basic cast-concrete coping. High-end coping materials like bluestone, travertine, or brick pavers can significantly increase cost, so check what each quote specifies. If one contractor’s price seems higher, see if they’ve included a premium coping or extra square footage of it (for an extended decking area, perhaps). If a quote doesn’t mention coping at all, that’s a red flag – clarify who is providing and installing the pool’s perimeter edging. Always ensure the type, material, and linear footage of coping is clearly detailed so you can compare apples to apples.
Equipment & Automation
Pool equipment packages can vary significantly in quality and features, so it’s important to know what each builder is including.
Are you getting a single-speed pump or a more efficient variable-speed model? What kind of filter is included—cartridge, sand, or DE—and what size? Does the quote include a heater (gas or heat pump), or is that an upgrade? If you’ve discussed saltwater systems or UV/Ozone, make sure they’re listed.
Automation is a major factor. Some packages include full control systems (like Hayward OmniLogic or Pentair IntelliCenter) that let you manage lights, pumps, and heaters from your phone. Others may only offer basic timers. That difference could mean thousands in cost—and convenience.
Also check on lighting: Are LED lights included, and how many? Color-changing lights are often excluded in lower bids.
Since equipment is where budget builders often cut corners, ask each builder for a detailed equipment list by model. A pool with high-efficiency systems may cost more upfront but save energy, reduce maintenance, and enhance your experience long-term.
Safety Barriers: Fencing or Automatic Pool Covers
By law, all new swimming pools must be secured by an approved safety barrier—either a fence enclosing the pool or a certified automatic safety cover. This isn’t just a code requirement; it’s also critical for insurance compliance and, most importantly, for safety.
Some builders include a basic 4-foot aluminum fence or removable mesh fencing in their quote. Others assume you’ll handle it separately and exclude it entirely. If nothing is mentioned, that’s a red flag—you could end up with a completed pool you can’t legally use.
Automatic safety covers are another option, especially for rectangular pools. They meet code, keep the pool clean, and reduce heating costs—but they’re expensive, often adding tens of thousands of dollars. If one quote includes a cover and the other doesn’t, that alone could explain a major price gap.
Always ask: “Does this quote include a code-compliant safety barrier, and if so, what type?” Fencing costs vary by yard size and material but often run several thousand dollars. A complete, transparent proposal should either include the barrier or clearly state if it’s excluded so you can compare bids accurately.
To hide this pool equipment, we built a custom screen out of composite decking to match the deck we built as part of the project.
Autofill and Other Convenience Features
An autofill (automatic fill valve) is a small but valuable addition that automatically tops off your pool’s water level—much like the float valve in a toilet tank. It helps prevent the pump from running dry due to evaporation and saves you from manually dragging out a hose every week.
Surprisingly, many builders omit autofills to keep their base price lower. If maintaining water level without hassle matters to you, check if an autofill is included. You may also want a pool overflow drain, which pairs with an autofill to prevent overfilling during heavy rain.
Another often-overlooked convenience feature is a pool equipment screen or enclosure. These are designed to hide and protect the pool equipment pad, improving your backyard’s aesthetics and reducing noise. Whether it’s a simple louvered screen, a custom fence, or a full enclosure, including one shows a contractor’s commitment to not just function, but form.
While none of these items drastically affect the total price, their inclusion—or absence—says a lot about a builder’s thoroughness. A bid that includes items like “autofill with valve connected to water supply” or “equipment screen included” reflects attention to both long-term convenience and finished appearance.
Utilities
Electrical, Gas & More
When comparing pool proposals, it's crucial to understand how each builder is handling utilities—especially electrical, which is often the most complex and costly.
Pool electrical work involves much more than plugging in a pump. It typically includes wiring for equipment, lights, automation systems, GFCI outlets, bonding, and potentially spa blowers or automatic covers. Some builders include complete electrical work—from running power from your home to wiring and bonding everything to code—while others only cover minimal work and leave the rest up to you.
It’s common to see phrases like “electric by others” or allowances (e.g., “Electrical hookup – $2,000 allowance”). If so, that means you may be responsible for hiring and paying a licensed electrician separately, which can add several thousand dollars, depending on distance, load, sub-panel needs, and the number of devices.
The same applies to gas lines if you’re adding a gas heater, fire pit, or grill. Many builders exclude this work unless noted explicitly. Trenching and running gas or propane lines, or upgrading your meter, can add significant cost. Also check whether water lines (for auto-fills or water features) and sewer connections (for backwash or filter drainage) are included.
Bottom line: A lower bid may seem appealing, but if utilities aren’t included, you could be on the hook for major extra costs. Ask for clarity on what’s included and who is responsible for each utility. Ideally, get a turnkey proposal that connects everything needed to make your pool fully operational.
Digging into the details
Craftsmanship & Build Quality
Big price differences between pool builders often come down to one key factor: the level of craftsmanship and care that goes into the construction. A faster timeline or lower bid might sound appealing, but it’s important to ask how that builder is achieving it.
High-quality work takes time, skill, and attention to detail—from proper curing times and precise tile alignment to neatly run plumbing and meticulously cut stone. Builders who prioritize craftsmanship won’t be the fastest or cheapest, but they’re often the ones who deliver a pool that looks better, lasts longer, and functions flawlessly.
As you compare quotes, don’t just look at the numbers—look at the process, the finish work, and the pride behind the product. With something as permanent as a pool, quality matters more than speed or savings.
Construction methods
What you don't see often matters most
One of the biggest—and most overlooked—differences between pool estimates is how the pool and surrounding structures are actually built. While permits and inspections cover basic code compliance, much of the work (like gunite shells, patios, and foundations) is built to the contractor’s own standards, leaving room for shortcuts.
Lower-cost bids often reflect cost-cutting in the unseen details. A builder might skip proper soil compaction under pavers or use minimal rebar and thinner gunite—just enough to pass inspection, but not enough to last. These hidden choices can lead to settling, cracking, or failures down the road.
Higher bids usually account for better build practices: thicker concrete, tighter rebar spacing, proper gravel bases, drainage systems, and extra reinforcements. When reviewing quotes, look for signs of quality—mentions of soil conditioning, drainage, control joints, or gravel backfill. Or better yet, ask each builder how they construct key elements like patios or pool shells.
A pool is only as strong as what’s beneath the surface. Choose the builder who’s committed to doing it right—not just doing it fast.
Concrete Pool Deck Foundations
Pool decking is one of the most vulnerable areas for settling and failure—and it's often where shortcuts go unnoticed until problems appear. Trenching for pool plumbing and utilities, over-excavation around the pool shell, and improper backfilling with loose or uncompacted soil can all lead to voids beneath the deck. Over time, these voids result in uneven surfaces, cracking, and dangerous trip hazards.
At Outdoor Dreams, we prevent this by building every patio and pool deck on a solid foundation of at least 4" of compacted gravel topped with 4" of reinforced concrete. This engineered base distributes weight evenly, resists shifting, and ensures long-term stability. The result is a pool deck that looks flawless, stays level, and feels safe—year after year.
Settled decks are not only unsightly, but they can make outdoor spaces uncomfortable and even hazardous. Our concrete foundations are a proactive investment in durability, safety, and peace of mind.
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Frost Proof Foundations
Masonry structures like sitting walls, fire features, fountains, and outdoor kitchens are only as durable as the foundations beneath them. In Central Virginia, freeze-thaw cycles can wreak havoc on improperly built structures. When temperatures drop, moisture in the soil expands and contracts, causing ground movement that can crack, shift, or crumble anything sitting on a shallow base.
That’s why Outdoor Dreams builds all of its masonry structures on frost-proof foundations—extending at least 18 inches below grade to reach below the frost line. These deep, reinforced concrete footings protect against frost heave and ensure the structure remains stable, level, and crack-free for years to come.
Cutting corners on foundations may not be visible at first, but it often leads to costly repairs and premature failure. Our commitment to proper footing depth is just one of the ways we build outdoor spaces that are as structurally sound as they are beautiful.
Attention to Detail
Whether it's a cut that doesn't fit properly or a curve with an unsightly ripple, imperfections from sloppy work bother many homeowners to the point of regret.
Quality craftsmanship requires time. This is especially true when the craft involves materials, like concrete and stone, that are unforgiving and difficult to work with.
The time required to get the details right will be reflected in the price.
Going a Little Deeper
A Good Process Indicates Good Service
“Service” in a pool construction context means how the company guides you from initial design to the completed project and beyond. Comparing estimates isn’t only about the dollars and hardware; it’s also about the process each builder uses to execute the project. Companies can differ greatly here. Some may simply sell and dig a pool with minimal planning, while others provide in-depth design consultations, 3D renderings, permitting assistance, scheduled progress meetings, etc. As you review proposals, look for signs of a well-defined process. Contractors that have a clear, articulated plan for design and construction management are more likely to deliver a smooth experience.
Design & Planning Services
Design is arguably the most important phase of a pool project – it’s where your vision is translated into a workable plan. When comparing estimates, note what design services are included (if any). Some pool builders provide full design consultations with 2D plans and even 3D renderings, while others might just sketch a layout or use a standard template. Here are a few design-related questions to consider as you compare:
Who is the Designer?
Is the design created by a professional designer or architect on staff, or by a salesperson with basic software? Outdoor living spaces and pools benefit from professional design expertise. A company that includes an experienced designer or architect in the process may charge more upfront (design fees or higher overhead), but you’re likely to get a more thoughtful, customized plan.
A less expensive bid might have no formal design phase – essentially “we’ll figure it out as we build” – whereas a comprehensive quote will often involve design meetings, revisions, and homeowner approvals, which contribute to a better final result.
3D Renderings & Visualizations
Seeing your poolscape in 3D renderings can make a big difference in confidence and clarity. It allows you to visualize the layout, catch potential changes early, and better understand how the space will flow.
Creating detailed 3D designs takes time and skill, which is often reflected in the design fee or total project cost. If one builder provides a full-color rendering and another only a basic sketch, that’s more than a presentation difference—it reflects a deeper investment in planning.
Don’t overlook the value of this service. Paying for quality design upfront often prevents costly surprises later. Be sure to ask what design deliverables are included with each estimate, as this can signal how customized and well-thought-out your project truly is.
Construction Details
Beyond pretty 3D pictures, the real value of design lies in the construction details. Does the company produce construction documents or detailed plans for the project? This could include layouts with exact dimensions, cross-sections showing how the pool and any structures will be built, steel schedules for gunite, plumbing schematics, and equipment pad layouts. These details ensure everyone is on the same page about what’s being built and how. Some higher-end builders include a full plan set as part of the package – which is a sign of a thorough approach. Others might not, which could lead to ambiguity and potential change orders later. If a company includes construction drawings or engineered plans (and another doesn’t), factor that into your decision. It not only affects the build quality but also your ability to visualize and understand the project before breaking ground.
Communication
Beyond design and construction, communication is one of the biggest factors in your overall satisfaction. We’ve all heard stories of contractors who go dark mid-project or fail to update homeowners on progress or changes.
When comparing companies, ask how they handle communication:
Who will be your main point of contact during construction?
How often will you receive updates, and in what format?
How are changes or additions handled and approved?
Some companies offer a dedicated project manager or client portal with schedules, photos, and logs (like Outdoor Dreams), while others are more informal. Pay attention to communication before you sign too—slow responses or vague quotes now may signal issues later.
Clear, structured communication prevents mistakes, delays, and frustration. A detailed proposal and a defined process are strong signs you’re dealing with a professional team that values your peace of mind.
Warranty & Long-Term Support
A pool is a major investment, and the warranty can reveal a lot about a builder’s confidence in their work. Companies that offer lifetime structural warranties are likely using high-quality materials and methods—because they’re on the hook if something fails. In contrast, a builder that only provides the minimum warranty may not stand behind their craftsmanship in the same way.
Premium builders often offer comprehensive warranties and price accordingly to minimize future issues. Meanwhile, a lower bid with a one-year warranty could leave you exposed if problems arise—and that builder may not be around to fix them.
Ultimately, a warranty is only as good as the company behind it. Longevity, reputation, and responsiveness matter. Sometimes a slightly higher price buys you far more security in the long run.
In Summary
You Get What You Pay For
When comparing pool project estimates, it’s vital to remember this age-old wisdom: you get what you pay for. If one estimate is significantly higher than another, it’s very likely the higher bid includes more work, better materials, or more comprehensive service – plain and simple. A cheaper quote might omit essential elements (leaving you to cover them later) or reflect lower standards that could cost you down the line in repairs or dissatisfaction. To make the best decision for your dream pool, you should:
Know exactly what is included in each estimate. Break down every line item and assumption. Make a checklist of all the features and services we discussed (from engineering to fences to cleanup) and tick off which quote covers each. Clarity here is key – don’t leave anything to “probably included” guessing. If something’s not written, assume it’s not included and ask the contractor for clarification or to add it (with cost) if necessary.
Decide what is most important to you. Every homeowner’s priorities are different. You might prioritize having the highest-end materials and a bespoke design, or perhaps staying within a tight budget is the top concern and you’re willing to take on coordinating some parts yourself. Maybe warranty and long-term durability are non-negotiable for you, or maybe you value a one-stop, turn-key service above all. Use those personal priorities to weight the value of what each company offers. In other words, identify where you are willing to invest more and where you might scale back. This will help you evaluate which estimate aligns best with your needs and vision (and avoid upsells for things you don’t care about).
Select the company that best fits your needs (and comfort level). After ensuring the quotes are as comparable as possible in scope, reflect on your interactions with each contractor. Who did you feel most comfortable with? Who answered your questions thoroughly and honestly? Which company gave you confidence that they will deliver on their promises? The right choice may not always be the cheapest or the most expensive – it’s the one that checks the most boxes for you and with whom you feel a sense of trust. You’ll be working with them for months on a very personal project (your backyard!), so choose a partner, not just a price.
Ultimately, a swimming pool is a long-term investment in your home and lifestyle. Taking the time to scrutinize competing estimates in detail will pay off by ensuring you get the pool you expect, with no unpleasant surprises. Remember, the bitter taste of poor quality or missing features lasts far longer than the sweetness of a low price.
By doing your due diligence now – examining scope, verifying build quality, and aligning expectations – you’ll set yourself up for a successful pool project and years of enjoyment to come. Enjoy the process, and happy swimming!
Cascading Curves - A Case Study
Cascading Curves - A Case Study
This homeowner approached Outdoor Dreams while relocating from Hawaii into their newly built custom home. With a fresh start in Virginia, they envisioned a poolscape that would feel both welcoming and grounded—a space that blended seamlessly with the architecture of their home while also reflecting the rustic, natural warmth of the Midwest.
Sculpting Fire - Custom Curved Fire Features
Sculpting Fire - Custom Curved Fire Features
When it comes to building a luxury poolscape, a swimming pool is just the beginning. The real magic happens in the details—the elements that transform a backyard into an unforgettable retreat. For the Cascading Curves Project, that magic came in the form of two fully customized, curve-driven fire features that now anchor the space with drama, warmth, and unmistakable personality.
Choosing the Perfect Pool Tile
Choosing the Perfect Pool Tile
Selecting pool tile is one of the most exciting steps in designing your swimming pool. Not only does the tile contribute to the overall aesthetic of your outdoor oasis, but it also plays a critical role in durability and functionality. With so many options available, this guide will help you navigate the selection process, ensuring your pool tile is both beautiful and practical.