Cost of Installing a Pool
By Jennifer Whitehead
Your family has been begging you for years to have a pool installed in the backyard. Your immediate response is always a stern, “Never! It’s too expensive, and it’s too much work!”, but secretly you’d like one, too. As you let yourself drift to thoughts of splashing lazily in the water, your mind suddenly becomes flooded with all the variables: Where would you put it? What shape? How deep? In or above ground? Concrete, gunite, fiberglass or vinyl lined? Chlorine or saltwater filtration system? You are stirred to reality when you realize the construction process would involve the county, and your dream suddenly turns to a nightmare when you think of the cost.
When you gain your senses, you are tempted to just put the whole issue behind you, but you realize that you really have no idea of the cost. But, how can you find out without committing to the project? Using a matching service is an efficient and convenient way to locate a local professional who can estimate the cost for you. Without leaving the comfort of your computer, you simply answer a few simple questions, and the matching service will identify three or four local, qualified professionals who are interested in performing the work. One of the questions you will be asked is how quickly you want the work performed. If you make the matching service aware that you are simply seeking cost estimates, the contractors will be fully aware that you are still in the “contemplation phase.”
Before you know, the contractors will begin calling. As you take a few minutes to talk with them, ask yourself: Are they personable? Did you get a good feeling? Do they understand that you are still “shopping” and are not “ready to buy”? Ask them if they are licensed, bonded and insured. Are they familiar with the requirements for permits and inspections in your jurisdiction? Take a moment to browse their company websites, read customer reviews and see if other customers had a good experience.
Eventually, the contractors will offer to visit your home for a first-hand look at the project. Have a list of questions, so you are able to interview each contractor in a similar manner. After that, all you have to do is sit back and wait for the contractors to begin submitting cost estimates for installing your pool.
Once they are presented, compare the various cost estimates to see where you are getting your best value. Remember, the cheapest isn’t always the best! Also, when comparing estimates make sure you are comparing similar materials and labor.
The process may take a little time and emotional energy, but once you know the true cost of installing a pool, you may realize that your dream of having a pool in your backyard can become a reality.
About the Author
|
| Jennifer Whitehead, JW Professional Services
Jessup, MD 20794
If you would like to re-print this article, please contact the author.
|
|
|
|
|