NSPI SUGGESTIONS

HOW TO BUY A POOL

According to National Spa & Pool Institute (NSPI) consumer research, families use pools as pleasant outlets for relaxation and as tranquil settings to spend time together at home. And with recent trends toward nesting, pools are becoming increasingly popular home additions.

Choose what suits you.

Do you require the expanse of a large pool for swimming and diving, or are you looking for the intimacy and convenience of a spa? Are your needs exclusively recreational or do they include therapeutic benefits?

POOL TIME

You have two options when buying a pool: aboveground or inground . The cost for an inground pools start at about $15,000, and varies depending on the size of the pool and degree of customization. Other details, such as decking, landscaping, safety equipment and automated maintenance and heating systems cost extra. If selecting an inground pool, you’ll first need to decide on a liner. There’s a variety to choose from: vinyl liners are supported by frames of steel, aluminum, polymer, concrete or wood; a fiberglass pool usually is made of a fiberglass molded shell, but some combine the fiberglass with concrete or other materials, and a concrete pool is made of durable, seamless sprayed concrete over steel reinforcing rods which can be custom built in a variety of shapes. Your pool professional should direct you to which model is best for your and your yard’s shape and size.

The NSPI recommends getting quotes from three different builders before settling on a pool. Make sure each specifies exactly what is covered in the cost, as well as what equipment and materials they will use.

1. Make sure the builder is following your town’s codes. Check with the zoning board to find out what kind of permits and fees are involved with building a pool.
2. Check several sources of financing to make sure you’re getting the best deal. Dealers and builders can often assist with identifying financing options. Be sure to include in your budget the costs for any landscaping or lighting, water and safety features and audio systems. You can save additional money by building a pool in the off-season.
3. Make sure you understand all the specifics before signing a contract. Get everything included in the purchase price in writing. Ascertain whether the total cost includes delivery and installation.
4. The pool and its equipment should come with a warranty. Know what is covered in the warranty and what is not covered.

BE INDEPENDENT

1. When pool shopping, consult independent rating services, such as Consumer’s Digest at the Web site: www.consumersdigest.com , which evaluates a variety of models and manufacturers. Only educated consumers can properly determine which water escapes—above ground or inground pools—best suit their individual needs and are worth the investment. Also contact the Better Business Bureau to check out the track record of any pool builder.
2. Don’t forget to ask about warranties, and make sure there are no hidden costs in your contract. The builder or contractor should include all required permits and electrical hookups.
3. Finally, research the company to insure your family time isn’t spent trying to fix what you should be enjoying.
4. The history of the manufacturer and the pool company is important. Also for your own safety, try to avoid buying a pool from a company without a storefront. Pool companies come and go, so make sure the one you choose is committed to being there for you for years to come.

HOW TO TIPS
Factors to consider :

• Make sure the vendor or contractor is properly licensed. The license number should appear in the company’s advertisement.
• Hire a company that has been in business long enough to have a track record you can check.
• Avoid those who don’t have an actual business address. Longevity at a location can be a sign of stability and reliability.
• Consider vendors with a showroom. A showroom not only permits inspection before buying, it’s another sign of stability.
• Check experience and knowledge. How many spas or pools does the company build or sell? Can they explain the pluses and minuses of models they carry?
• Does the builder or installer’s insurance cover liability and workers’ compensation? Ask to see a certificate of insurance.
• Free estimates are standard. Be leery of anyone who wants to charge to quote you a price.
• Check references. Satisfied customers are the best tools to get new business and reputable contractors will be happy to provide them.
• Hire a contractor who belongs to the National Spa and Pool Institute, or another trade organization.
• Do not sign a check until you sign a contract. Your contractor or vendor has a right to a down payment, but be sure to clarify the payment schedule and terms. Understand your contract, including your responsibilities and obligations, as well as the contractor’s. Sometimes down payments can be negotiated.