How to Get the Best Deal on a Gunite Pool

The cost of your gunite pool will depend on the size and features you want.

Gunite swimming pools are concrete lined pools, rather than a vinyl lined. Vinyl lined in-ground swimming pools often cost less, but require more maintenance than gunite pools. Vinyl liners also need to be replaced every 8-10 years, whereas concrete lined pools last indefinitely. All pools are different, and the cost of your pool will depend on the features you want to include.

Things You'll Need

• Internet access
• Note-taking Materials

Instructions

1. Begin by asking neighbors, friends, and family about their own in-ground pools. Ask for referrals to pool-building companies from trusted friends. If you see a pool you admire, ask the owner who did the work and if they would recommend working with the company. If you feel comfortable, ask the pool owner the cost of the installation. Be sure to take into consideration the extras, such as fencing and pool decking. Many basic pool packages do not include these costs.

2. Try an internet search for pool companies in your area. Many companies will not list their prices online, but will often post pictures of recent jobs. Look through the pictures with a critical eye, and make note of which companies offer the pool packages you prefer. Decide on the size and shape pool you would like in your backyard. Jot down the phone numbers of the companies you would like to get a quote from.

3. Once you have decided which basic features you would like to include in your gunite pool, it is time to call companies and get quotes. Pool companies will usually not give a price over the phone, but will visit you in your home to prepare a quote. The visit may include a pool technician walking through your backyard and deciding if any grading, fencing, or terracing is necessary before pool installation. There will be an extra charge for these features. The pool technician may draw a rough sketch of what your pool will look like, including all of the extra features you would like to include. Be sure to meet with as many pool companies as you like, as the quotes can sometimes be very different. Make certain to jot down notes on the included features.

4. After meeting with all the pool companies you are interested in, it is time to make a decision. Take into consideration which pool company you feel most comfortable with. Weigh all the options, and you will be sure to make an informed decision.

References

• PoolandSpa.com: How Do They Build a Swimming Pool?
• Gunite Pools Homepage