Many people choose to search for ‘swimming pools near me’ or ‘local pool builder near me’ to find results. However, we want to tell you exactly how to find the best local pool company, and we’ll outline why it’s so critical that you take your time when you search.

Why Searching for ‘Swimming Pools Near Me’ is Only the Start of Your Search

Some people decide to perform one or two searches for ‘pools near me’ and pick the first company that pops up. However, this is only the beginning of your search. You must screen every company and do in-depth research before you settle on one.

This way, you can rest assured that the pool company can do everything you need them to do. Maybe you need special accommodations, or you have obstacles in the way that makes installation difficult. Some companies will be able to accommodate you while others will not.

Additionally, taking the time to perform these searches will allow you to price check different companies to get the best rate. If you don’t, and you pick one at random, you could end up paying much more for your new pool or spa than you need too. This money is something you could use to add accessories to your pool or use for additional upgrades like eco-friendly pumps or bright colours.

Criteria to Help You Find a Pool Company in Melbourne or the Surrounds

Fortunately, we have a guide that outlines everything you need to make a note of when you search for a ‘local pool builder near me.’ These first few essential details you want to apply to any local pool company you find.

Experience

How long has the pool company been in business? Ideally, you want to find a well-established company that has a portfolio of completed projects and satisfied clients. For example, Compass Pools has a Melbourne office and showroom where we’re more than happy to talk about past installs and their options. We have several fibreglass pools available, and we have decades of experience installing them for our customers.

References

Any pool builder you contact should be able to provide you with recommendations for past projects. These should be new and older customers. A company that does quality work will be more than happy to prove it by giving you at least one or two references.

Business or Trade Organisation

Having some degree of involvement with a local trade or business organisation shows that a business commits to the pool building industry. You’re more apt to get a professional company that invests time, money and effort into making their pools and accessories better.

Equipment

Be sure you ask about the local pool company’s heavy machinery and the quality grades and performance levels. The answers will give you a good idea on whether or not they have the equipment available to create, transport and install the pool successfully.

Payment Process

Ask to see a copy of a typical pool build and install contract. Ask about payment terms. Any contractor who asks you for more money than the contract specifies isn’t worth your time. The goal is to stay within the contract’s guidelines from start to finish.

Pool Types

What type of pool comes up when you search for a ‘pool company near me?’ Do the majority of people need in-ground or above-ground? If you have a little space available, can your pool company install a plunge pool? What about a spa or a pool and spa combination? A reputable pool company will be able to walk you through your various options and find the best pool type for your space and usage needs.

Cost

Your budget will also play a role in the company you choose and the pool you get. You have to consider the groundwork, trades, whether or not you want paving or decking, safety features, landscaping, accessories, heating, chemicals, filtration system and cleaning expenses. If you shop around, you can find the lowest prices for your new pool with sacrificing quality.

Will the Company Put the Details in Writing

Finally, make a point to ask the pool companies if they’ll put all of the little details in writing. Getting it in writing will help outline what the pool company and what you will have to cover. The things you want to see include:

• What excavation work does the company include in your quote? If the company runs into issues, how will the issues impact the cost?
• How will the company prepare your yard for the pool without damaging existing structures? If they have to move things, will they return them to their places?
• If you need a fence or deck around your pool, will they put it in or will that be your responsibility?
• What equipment will they use, and what happens if something happens to it that causes a delay?
• What landscaping and grading company do they use if they outsource?
• What will you have to pay with repair and maintenance costs?
• What is the warranty coverage?
• Is there an itemized list of the costs of the pool and any accessories like a spa, infinity edge, wading area or pool cover.

Six Steps to Follow to Find the Best Local Pool Builder

Now that you have a list of things to consider when you search for ‘swimming pools near me,’ you can use these steps to narrow down your search. Since any given area can have dozens of local pool companies, taking your time and comparing them is critical.

Step One – Determine the Pool Type

The first thing you want to do is decide on the type of pool you want. A quick search will give you a good indication of the go-to Australian pool types. Are they in-ground or above-ground? Concrete or fibreglass? Freshwater or saltwater? In Australia, fibreglass pools are one of the most popular options due to their durability and longevity. Decide which type of pool suits your area, budget and lifestyle.

Step Two – Pick Out the Pool Design

There are dozens of pool designs available. Maybe you want a pool to increase your swimming speed. If so, a lap pool would be the right choice. If you want something more elegant, an infinity pool could be the way to go. Consider how you want to use the pool and your yard space. You could always get a smaller pool and get a few water features added on to make it more functional.

Step Three – Learn About Pool Equipment

You don’t have to be a pool equipment expert, but having a rudimentary understanding of how pool equipment works and the basic pros and cons are helpful. For example, do you want a cartridge, natural or diatomaceous earth filter? Will you use a chlorine generator or a feeder to chlorinate your pool, or will you choose saltwater? Consider a self-cleaning pool system to cut down on the number of chemicals you need and the amount of maintenance you’ll have to do. The more you know, the more prepared you’ll be to ask questions and understand your options.

Step Four – Make a List of Potential Local Pool Companies

When you get a good understanding of what you want for your new pool, make a list of reputable local pool companies. Ask for references from co-workers, family and friends who have or had pools installed. Once you get a list, start comparing them to see which ones offer you more bang for your buck. Use the criteria list from earlier to help weed through your potential companies. The goal is to narrow your choices down to the top three to five.

Step Five – Schedule Appointments

Take your final list and start scheduling appointments. You should schedule them a day or two apart, so you don’t mix up their offerings, and it’ll also give you time to jot down a few comparison notes. Make a short pro and con list and pay attention to each company’s sales pitch. Also, make sure to get any promises, discounts or promotional offers in writing. Don’t sign any contracts until you visit your entire list of potential companies.

Step Six – Compare and Choose

Finally, you’ll want to take a day and compare all of your options. Were there a couple that stood out from the rest? Use the process of elimination to narrow your results down until you get one company. Call and schedule another consultation, or ask them what the next step is and what they need from you. You can now move forward with your build while staying confident that you chose the best option to give you the pool of your dreams.

Compass Pools Has Reputable Pool Dealers in Several Locations

Compass Pools has a reputation for installing high-quality fibreglass pools. We bring years of experience to each customer we take on, and we’ve honed our craft over the years. Additionally, we also have a host of offices and showrooms throughout Australia that makes it easy to come directly to our customers. There are no long wait times, and we’ll work with you to ensure you get an excellent finished product. We have authorised dealers in:

Melbourne

Compass Pools is the pool company Melbourne residents turn to when they need dependable and professional service. We bring over 30 years of experience selling and installing fibreglass pools throughout Melbourne and Victoria. Each member of our staff commits themselves to showcase the highest quality fibreglass swimming pools available. Additionally, each of our pools is low maintenance, but they all last for years.

We have a showroom where we can walk you through the various fibreglass pools, spas and accessories we have available. We’ll also show you the different colour ranges and finishes. We also encourage you to ask about our past installations! We’re happy to showcase our work and help you choose the best swimming pool for your lifestyle.

Sydney

The Compass Sales Centre is your point of contact for a quality pool company in Sydney North and Sydney South. We’ve showcased our pools and had a decade to build our portfolio of satisfied customers and completed projects here. We faithfully serve the Baulkham Hills, Blacktown, Castle Hill, Central Coast, Gosford, Hurtsville, Mosman, Northern Beaches and Northshore communities from this location.

When you drop by, our friendly and professional staff are on-hand and ready to walk you through your pool options. We can compare sizes, shapes, colours and exterior finishes to help you decide on the best choice for your needs.

Brisbane

If you’re looking for a reliable pool company in Brisbane, rely on our authorised Compass Pools dealer for this area.

You can drop by and view our exclusive range of fibreglass pools, spas and water features that help you customise your new pool. If you have questions, the friendly staff are ready to answer them, address your concerns and guide you through the process of picking out a new pool.

Newcastle

When you look for a pool company in Newcastle, look for Compass Pools. Newcastle is home to our display centre, and we have several high-quality fibreglass pools to show our customers. We specialise in complicated site installations, and we have hundreds of satisfied customers throughout the community.

This location is right next door to Compass Pools Australia – NSW Manufacturing Facility, and this means you get lightning-fast service with quick turnaround times when you order. If you’d like to know more, we offer no-obligation quotes on your new spa or pool project!

Stop by Your Local Compass Pools Showroom Today!

No matter where you are in Australia, you can find a local Compass Pools showroom or shop. We invite you to drop by and see what we have to offer, or you find your nearest authorised dealer to request a free, no-obligation quote right now!

The post How to Find a Reputable Pool Company Near You appeared first on Compass Pools Australia.

Different Pool Materials and the Construction Process

Before you get to decide your pool’s shape or size, you have to consider the pool material and construction process involved. There are three main types of pool material you can use, and each one has a different construction process. They include:

Fibreglass

Fibreglass swimming pools come as a large, single shell. A pool installation company will come out and survey your yard. Once you decide on a spot to place your pool, they’ll excavate a hole to match the pool’s unique shape and size. A truck will deliver this fibreglass shell to your home, and the company will lift it into the hole using a crane. Fibreglass pools are ready-made, and this can make it difficult to request a custom design. Most companies that manufacture fibreglass pools have many sizes and models to choose from, and they have pre-formed benches, spas and steps.

Fibreglass is popular for pools because it makes for a rapid pool building process. The interior is very smooth, and this prevents algae from clinging to it. Fibreglass can cost more, and it usually starts to deteriorate after 10 or 15 years.

Concrete with Aggregate or Plaster

If you choose a concrete pool, the pool company will come and excavate the area of your yard where the pool will sit. They’ll frame or line the sides and bottom of the hole with steel rods, and they can turn them into almost any shape you desire. When the company finishes the steel rod placement, they’ll spray either gunite or shotcrete to form the pool shell.

Using this concrete shell with steel bar reinforcement is one of the most popular pool building materials. It has excellent durability, and the concrete itself is very porous. Concrete allows the shell to hold water in, and it is relatively easy to add another coat of plaster years down the line.

Vinyl

Vinyl pools use a plastic or metal frame that the pool company builds above ground, or they can excavate a hole and slip the outer lining inside. The company will place supporting panels or walls made out of aluminium, steel or plastic along the frame before they line in with a thick sheet of vinyl. The bottom is sand, and coping will hold the vinyl’s top-down to create a finished edge.

Vinyl is relatively inexpensive to install, but it does deteriorate in the sun and from exposure to pool chemicals. You can get vinyl liners with UV-protectant coating, but you should only expect your pool to last between 10 to 18 years.

Alternative Finishes

You can choose to have different materials added to your pool’s surface to increase the longevity and give it a sleek look. Popular options include plaster, concrete, stone and tile. Pebble aggregate is gaining popularity because it creates an eye-catching look. When you apply these alternative finish to your pool, they can last between 8 and 12 years.

The Best Pool Shape and Size

Your pool’s shape and size will also play an essential role in how satisfied you are with your pool. Before you decide on a form or size, you want to consider the following:

What is Your Pool’s Purpose?

Will you use your pool a few times a summer and let it sit the other time? If so, you don’t necessarily need a more extensive structure. Maybe you plan to have large family gatherings around your pool. If this is the case, you’d need a more extensive setup. If you plan to use your pool for exercise, you have two options. You can get a larger, more elongated pool to swim laps, or you can get a swim spa where jets keep you in place while you swim, like a treadmill for swimmers.

The deciding factor is the pool’s purpose. You want it to be large enough to accommodate any activities or the number of people who want to use it. If you have three or more in your family, a larger pool is usually the preferred option.

What Are Your Limitations?

You can fantasise about a pool all you want, but the reality is, you’ll most likely have limitations. The cost, time, space and any prefab requirements make up your four most significant limitations.

• Cost – When you consider your pool’s price, size is the most significant factor. Your budget may make you choose between getting a larger pool with sub-par materials or selecting a smaller pool with better materials.
• Time – You’ll spend more time maintaining a bigger pool. If you hire someone to clean it, this won’t be a big deal. However, if you plan to do it yourself, consider how much time you want to invest in cleaning, chemical balancing and maintaining your pool.
• Space – Your pool should fit into your backyard, but it should also leave space for you to move around and host other activities. You’ll need additional space around the pool itself for the deck.
• Prefab Requirements – If you have your heart set on a fibreglass pool or you’re using a kit and doing it yourself; you have limited prefab options. There’s also a maximum size attached to fibreglass pools because they have to travel on trucks.

Who Will Use Your Pool?

Do you plan on having adults only using your pool? If so, having a deeper pool will give you a greater swimming area. If you have kids, having a shallow end or a wading area is an excellent option to consider. Are there any mobility limitations? If there are, maybe you have to have a gentle slope or steps over a traditional ladder. Beach entries usually work best with smaller pools. The goal is to try and plan for the long-term with your pool so you don’t find yourself stuck with something everyone can’t enjoy.

Popular Types of Swimming Pools

Did you know there are over several different kinds of swimmming pools? Along with deciding on a size and shape, considering the pool type is another important factor. At Compass Pools, the different kinds of swimming pools we offer come in small, medium and large sizes, and they include but are not limited to:

• In-Ground – If you have a flat installation site, in-ground pools are a popular option. This type of pool helps to reduce the pool’s final cost.
• Partially  Above-Ground – Maybe you want to have your pool’s ledge meet an existing deck. If so, a partially above-ground installation can be a cost-effective and convenient option to consider.
  
• Above-Ground – Above-ground pools are great for anyone who has a sloping surface or a backyard that isn’t the correct size or shape for a pool.
  
• Plunge – Smaller yards or spaces can benefit from having an elegant plunge pool. This setup is deep, elegant and perfect for hydrotherapy.
• Family – A family pool gives you enough room for all of your family activities. There are several sizes and options available.
• Lap – Lap pools work well for serious swimmers. It’s a narrow pool that comes with custom length options.

The Best Pool Add-Ons

Pool add-ons are features that you don’t necessarily need for the pool to function, but they can help you customise your pool. They can add luxurious or calming elements to your pool, and the most common pool add-ons include:

• Water Features – Water features are stunning add-ons that create an eye-catching look for any pool. You can pick from different materials, heights and spillways to make them truly unique. You’ll hear the serene and tranquil sound of running water each time you step out to your pool.
• Tanning Ledges – Tanning ledges are shallow areas along the edges of your pool that run about a foot deep. You can request benches or chairs to sit and relax in while you enjoy your pool and the warmth of the sun.
• Spa  – A spa is an elevated area of your pool that shares your pool’s water system. The water here is much warmer than the central part, and you can have jets adds to soothe your aches and pains.
• Underwater Lighting – Maybe you want to enjoy your pool at dusk or in the evening hours. Underwater lighting not only looks great, but it helps to make your pool safe to swim in after dark.
• Jets – Jets can give you a soothing element with your pool. You can opt for regular or swim jets if you want something more powerful. Swim jets are ideal for people who wish to exercise in a smaller pool.
• Beach Entry – A beach entry is a sloped entry into your pool. The water starts shallow in one end, and it gradually gets deeper the further into the pool you go.
• Benches – Adding benches into your pool gives you a space to sit and relax. These benches are usually built right into the side of the wall, and you’ll sit in shallow water.

Choosing Vibrant Pool Colours

You don’t have to have boring blue, green or white pools anymore! There are now dozens of dazzling colours you can choose to put on your pool walls. Gel coating gives you dozens of pool colour options and the most popular include:

• Sapphire, Ice Blue or Arctic Marine – Having a light blue or green base with silver, white or deeper blue flakes gives you stunning blue water that has specks of white, light grey and medium blues.
• Royal Blue, Pacific or Atlantic – The dark blue gel coat will turn your pool’s appearance into a very dark blue. This colouring is excellent for day swimming, but it can look almost black at night.
• Beach – The golden brown base comes with flecks of black and lighter brown shades. You’ll enjoy a classic look with crystal-clear water.
• Pearl, Pink Quartz, Quartz or Grey Marble – Some people like the look of quartz because it’s chic. These colours are typically a grey base with white, pink, gold or black speckles, that can look like small rocks.
• Evolution or Viridian – Evolution or Viridian are deeper hues that add an intense and vibrant look to your pool. They help your water sparkle in the sunlight.

Deciding on the Best Filtration System

There are three pool filtration systems you can choose from when you install your pool. Pool filters measure how clean they get your pool in microns. A micron is one-millionth of a metre. To put in perspective, a single strand of human hair is 50 microns while bacteria are 2 microns. The three filter types are cartridge, sand and diatomaceous Earth.

Cartridge Filter

Cartridge filters will work great in small or medium-sized pools. This filter system comes with a tank and a plastic cylinder inside the container. The plastic cylinder comes surrounded by a pleated polyester filter, and there are caps at both ends to hold it in place. Water circulates through the polyester into the tank and out into your pool.

The filter catches any debris that is 10 microns in size or larger. You will have to clean them periodically because they can clog with debris. There is no backwashing, and this filter performs very well at slightly lower speeds.

Sand Filter

Sand filters are for people on a budget who have very little time to maintain their pool’s filtration system. It works well in large pools because it’s challenging to clog. The system sucks pool water through skimmers before forcing it through a large sand tank. The sand traps debris down to 20 microns. This system comes with an external pressure gauge that lets you know when it’s time to backwash the system.

Since this filter doesn’t trap anything below 20 microns, keep up with your pool’s chemistry is critical. If you don’t, you’ll get bacteria in your pool water with you. Sand filters work with #20 silica sand, filter glass and Zeosand.

Diatomaceous Earth

Diatomaceous earth filters catch particles down to .5 microns, but they’re also the most labour-intensive option of the three. This filter system has a tank with grids. The grids have a white powdery substance stuck to them. Crushed fossilised remains make up the white powder substance you see.

This pressure forces the water through the tank and the grid. Anything larger than .5 microns will stick to it. There is a pressure gauge on the outside of the unit that tells you when you need to backflush it. However, you now have to add more diatomaceous earth to your grids. You should mix it until you get a slurry and slowly pour it into your filter system. Don’t swim for at least 12 hours after you backflush it.

Picking a Water System

Finally, you want to decide on a water system for your new pool. There are four broad categories you can check before you make your final choice. They include:

Chlorine

Chlorine pools are the traditional water systems. The chlorine treatment comes in granular form, liquid and tablets. When the chlorine hits the pool water, it sets off a chemical reaction. The chlorine will then oxidise any contaminants in your pool water. Chlorine is a residual sanitiser, and this means it works for weeks after you initially added it to the pool. It’s inexpensive, but it can cause dry skin. You’re not supposed to swim for a few hours after treating your pool.

Salt

Saltwater has been a popular choice for pool water systems since the 1980s, a revival of old-fashioned pools in the days before chlorine. The salt you add to the water effectively kills contaminants while giving your water a “softer” feel. This system is lower maintenance than chlorine, and you don’t get that harsh chemical smell when you treat your pool. The salt is also corrosive to the pool and filtration system, and it can be expensive to replace them once the salt corrodes it away.

Mineral

These pools utilise several different minerals to sanitise the pool and improve the water’s quality. When you have a mineral pool, you’ll have water that contains water-balancing chemicals and sanitiser. However, it also contains salt, magnesium chloride, and potassium chloride. There are health benefits associated with swimming in these minerals, and it makes them popular with pool owners throughout Australia.

Natural

A natural pool comes designed to mimic natural lakes and ponds. These pools use a natural filtration system instead of a chemical one to clean the water. With these pools, there is a smaller pool very close to the main pool, and it’s called a regeneration zone. The pool water filters through either constructed wetlands or a gravel filter. This regeneration zone catches the contaminants and pushes clean water back into the main pool.

UV Sanitation

Although chlorine has always been the go-to choice for pool sanitation, UV is a newer option that is gaining popularity. Ultra Violet technology can kill 99.9% of micro-organisms, algae, fungi, viruses and bacteria in your pool’s water. As the swimming pool water circulates, it’ll trigger the cleaning process and the water will pass through a UV lamp. This light from the UV lamp will kill any organisms, and clean water will flow back into your pool.

Compass Pools Can Help You Pick the Best Swimming Pool

If you’re considering picking out a new pool, Compass Pools can help. We have dozens of styles, sizes, shapes, colours, filtration systems, and materials available. We’re happy to answer your questions and help narrow down your options. You can drop by one of our locations, call us on 1300 667 445 or find your nearest authorised dealer.

The post What to Consider When Picking the Best Pool for You appeared first on Compass Pools Australia.