The Best Pool Installation Companies, Vetted

Hello, my friend, hello again; today we come together to talk about The Best Pool Installation Companies, Vetted and hope the blog can help you.

Investing in a new pool is a great way to beat the heat and enjoy the warm weather with friends and family. Homeowners can consider one of the best pool installation companies to tackle the job.

When the hot summer sun beats down, it’s tempting to rush into an air-conditioned area just to get a breath of cool, refreshing air. However, it’s possible to have fun in the summer heat without hiding indoors if there is a pool for swimming, splashing, or just lounging with a drink in hand. Whether homeowners are searching online for “best pool builders near me,” “best pool installers near me,” or “best pool contractors near me,” they can find a range of different options. But not every company that claims to have the best pool service will live up to customers’ expectations.

For this reason, it’s important to learn more about what to expect from the best pool installation companies to make an informed decision about who a homeowner chooses to install a pool. Homeowners can consider this list of the best pool companies selected for having a multi-state presence, offering a range of services, and providing outstanding customer service. They’ll discover what they want to know before coming to a conclusion about the best swimming pool installation companies in the area.

BEST OVERALL: Premier Pools & Spas
RUNNER-UP: Anthony & Sylvan Pools
BEST ABOVE-GROUND POOLS: Royal Swimming Pools
BEST CUSTOM SERVICES: California Pools
ALSO CONSIDER: Blue Haven Pools & Spas
HONORABLE MENTION: River Pools

The Best Pool Installation Companies Options — Photo: istockphoto.com

What to Consider When Choosing One of the Best Pool Installation Companies

A pool is a significant investment, so it’s important to be selective about the company instead of just opting for the first search result after typing in “best pool company near me” or “best pool contractor near me.” Here are some of the top factors to consider when vetting a pool installation company.

Inground vs. Above-Ground Pools

Choosing between one of the best above-ground pool or inground pools is one of the first decisions prospective pool buyers must make. Inground pools cost more than above-ground pools, but they also last longer and are typically larger than above-ground pools.

Additionally, many major pool installation companies don’t offer above-ground pool installation (as many above-ground pools are expected to be DIY assembly projects), so customers may have a more difficult time finding a reliable above-ground pool installation company. However, spending the extra time to find experienced above-ground pool installers can save customers money in the long run. Professional swimming pool installers tend to work faster than the average DIYer, and they have a level of expertise only achieved through regular work in this industry.

Pool Material Types

During deliberation about whether to opt for an inground or above-ground pool, customers will want to also consider the pool material. The most common types are fiberglass, concrete, and vinyl. Many pool installation companies tend to choose one type of pool material to specialize in, so if customers are looking for fiberglass pool installation, it wouldn’t be a good idea to hire a company specializing in concrete pools.

Although the company may be able to get the material a customer wants, the customer will usually get better results by hiring professionals that regularly work with the material of choice.
Fiberglass is a long-lasting, durable option that can last for over 30 years. It comes in a large shell that needs to be delivered on a truck and positioned in the ground with a crane. Concrete pools typically need to be resurfaced about once every 10 years to increase the life of the pool. They’re made with poured concrete and rebar rods that help the concrete hold its shape. Vinyl inground pools last about 20 years, while above-ground vinyl pools only last about 12 to 15 years. These pools consist of metal or plastic frames, supporting walls, and a heavy vinyl liner that traps the water in the pool structure.

Service Area

The service area of a pool installation company can vary depending on the size of the location, services offered, and the availability of installers. Larger companies have enough experienced employees to extend the service area a significant distance from the primary location. If the demand is great enough, then these companies may be able to set up additional locations across the state or even across the country.

While customers are researching pool installation companies, it’s recommended to check the service area to determine that the company works where the homeowner lives. If a customer really likes the services offered by one specific company, but their address is just outside the service area, they can consider calling to speak with a customer service representative. The company may be able to make an exception. However, it’s important to verify whether there will be an additional fee for traveling outside of the service area or if the customer needs to commit to working with the company before a technician drives out to the address.

Quote Process and Scheduling

Pools come in various types, materials, sizes, shapes, and volumes. To provide the most accurate pricing, most pool installation companies will need to schedule a visit to come and inspect the property and take measurements. During this visit, customers can ask any questions and clarify their expectations for the project. The more information a customer can provide about how they want the pool to look and function, the easier it will be for the installer to give an accurate quote for the work.

If a customer likes the company and how it works, but the quote they receive seems unreasonable, they can ask for a breakdown to better understand the costs. Pool installation costs can range widely from as little as $700 for a basic, above-ground pool to over $100,000 for custom inground pools with luxury add-ons. It may be the case that there are a few details or a luxury add-on that is driving up the price. But customers will want to keep in mind that this doesn’t open the floor for haggling. If the price is too high, they can opt for a different pool installation company or change the plan to reduce the cost.

Technician Certifications and Insurance

A key aspect of researching pool installation companies is determining whether the company and the employees are actually licensed and insured to complete this type of work. This should include a business license for the area and company insurance that covers any damages that may occur as a result of a poor or faulty pool installation. Fiberglass pools typically come in one piece that needs to be lifted into the excavated hole with a crane, which means the truck driver and crane operator should also be licensed and insured.

While there isn’t a specific pool installer license required to install a pool, there are certifications available, like the Certified Builder Professional (CBP) certificate from PHTA (the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance), that can help ensure the installers are knowledgeable and reliable.

Pricing and Financing Options

The process of hiring a pool installation company often begins with an inspection so that the pool installation expert can provide homeowners with a quote for the work. This quote should have a breakdown of the costs, but customers can ask the pool installer for this information if it doesn’t.

Customers can expect an above-ground pool installation to range from about $800 for a basic design to a few thousand dollars for larger pools. If a customer wants inground pool installation, the price is much higher. They can expect to pay about $38,000 for a basic inground pool to over $100,000 for a custom inground pool with luxury add-ons. Most people don’t have that kind of money just ready to hand over, so a customer may want to find one of the best home equity loans, best home improvement loans, or best pool loans to help pay for the project. Additionally, pool installation companies may offer in-house financing or financing plans through partnered banks.

Warranties

It’s good for customers to ask about warranties up front before deciding to hire a pool installation company. The company should be able to provide customers with all the necessary information on the equipment that will be installed, including any warranties for the pump, filtration system, or even the structure of the pool. Customers will want to also ask the customer service representative if the company guarantees the work performed by the pool installation professionals.

While it may seem like information the customer can worry about after the pool is installed, it’s always better to know the coverage in the case of an emergency. Asking for warranty information ahead of time also gives customers more time to process the information and ask any additional questions for clarification.

Additional Services

Pool installation companies are rarely limited to just installing pools. Most will at least stock pool equipment, like pumps and filters, to sell to customers, and many more companies will also offer pool cleaning or pool maintenance services. Pool installation companies commonly offer additional services like hot tub or spa installations and outdoor building projects like building a pool deck or fence.

Some pool installation companies may also have professional landscapers on staff that can put in new gardens, install paving stones, or even set up a full outdoor kitchen. To find out what services a pool installation company offers, customers can take a look at the website or ask a customer service representative through email or over the phone.
Customer Support
Homeowners can’t expect a pool to be installed in a single day. Pool installation companies will work with a customer to find a good time that works with the customer’s schedule so that the company can come and inspect the property before providing a quote.
Suppose the customer agrees to go ahead with the work. In that case, they will need to work with the installer and the customer service department to schedule the installation, provide access to the property, and handle any additional details. Top-tier pool installation companies will employ experienced customer support staff that can explain the process in basic steps, answer any questions prospective and current customers have, and take the initiative to follow up on any pending requests to get the job done properly and without delay.

Best Overall

Premier Pools & Spas

Pool material types: Concrete, fiberglass, vinyl
Service area: 38 states
Financing options: Yes
Additional services: Spa installation, pool remodeling, pool maintenance
Customer support: Email, phone

Pros

Inground pools can be made out of any type of material
Over 100 locations nationwide
Premier Pools AR app lets customers realistically view 3D plans
All-in-one installation service with additional outdoor living space upgrades offered

Cons

Pool cleaning and remodeling services not available at all locations

Why It Made the Cut: Premier Pools & Spas offers all-in-one installation services so customers can upgrade their entire backyard. Founded in 1988 and with over 100 locations, Premier Pools & Spas boasts more locations than any other pool company. Its services are available in 38 states, and the company has expertise in building concrete, fiberglass, and vinyl pools. And depending on the location, customers may also be able to hire Premier Pools & Spas for ongoing pool cleaning and maintenance services. Customers can reach the company through email or over the phone, ensuring that they can find answers to pressing questions about the installation process and pricing. Premier Pools & Spas even offers financing options for customers who need help purchasing their dream pool. Customers can take advantage of the Premier Pools AR app to see what their pool will look like in the backyard with a realistic 3D plan. This makes it easier to identify problems or spot any issues with the design before construction and installation begin. This pool installation company also offers all-in-one installation services for outdoor living spaces like patios, outdoor kitchens, and decks.

Runner-Up

Anthony & Sylvan Pools

Pool material types: Concrete, fiberglass
Service area: 14 states and Washington, D.C.
Financing options: Yes
Additional services: Spa installation, pool renovations, pool maintenance
Customer support: Email, phone

Pros

Selection of environmentally friendly pool equipment
Pool cleaning and maintenance services offered at all locations
Accessibility and safety feature installations offered
Extensive and innovative online pool gallery

Cons

Relatively limited finishing options

Why It Made the Cut: Anthony & Sylvan lets customers keep the same company for pool installation and ongoing pool maintenance services. A long history of pool installation, amounting to over 75 years of experience, has helped Anthony & Sylvan Pools stand out in this industry. The company builds fiberglass and concrete pools and specializes in accessibility features like lifts, ramps, and beach access. These features are notable and allow individuals with mobility issues to enjoy the pool. While finishing options may be relatively limited, customers can get inspired for their backyard transformation with the extensive online photo gallery that allows users to filter by price, size, design, and location. Anthony & Sylvan also opts for environmentally friendly pool equipment, including high-efficiency pumps, eco-friendly LED lighting, and saltwater filtration systems to help reduce the number of chemicals customers need to maintain the pool. Once the pool is installed, customers can hire the same Anthony & Sylvan branch for ongoing pool cleaning and maintenance services.

Best Above-Ground Pools

Royal Swimming Pools

Pool material type: Fiberglass
Service area: Nationwide
Financing options: Yes
Additional services: Spa installation
Customer support: Phone, live chat

Pros

Wide selection of above-ground, inground, and semi-inground pool kits
Connections with pool builders and installers nationwide
Transparent pricing

Cons

Relatively limited customization options

Why It Made the Cut: Royal Swimming Pools can help save time and money by providing quality above-ground pool installation. Starting as a family business back in 1987, Royal Swimming Pools has expanded its service area to the entire United States by partnering with independent contractors for local installations. The customer can choose the right inground, above-ground, or semi-inground pool kit for their yard, and Royal Swimming Pools will ship the kit to a local contractor to complete the installation. Due to this process, Royal Swimming Pools cannot offer custom installations, but the company offers a wide selection of pool kits, so most customers can find something that meets their needs. Each pool kit is clearly priced on the website, so customers can more easily budget for the pool installation. Financing options are available, and customers can contact customer support personnel through the live chat function or over the phone.

Best Custom Services

California Pools

Pool material type: Concrete
Service area: 6 states
Financing options: Yes
Additional services: Pool remodeling, outdoor living construction, pool landscaping, custom decking
Customer support: Email

Pros

All-in-one installation service with additional outdoor living and pool landscaping upgrades offered
98 percent of projects finished on time and within budget
Extensive online pool gallery

Cons

Pool landscaping not available at all locations

Why It Made the Cut: Stunning custom pool designs by California Pools give customers a place to play, swim, and relax while enhancing the entire yard. In business for over six decades, California Pools has carved out a niche in the pool installation industry where it can focus on customized concrete pool designs, outdoor living construction projects, custom decks, and pool landscaping. These features come together to create dream backyards for countless customers. Homeowners may want to be aware that not every location offers landscaping services, so they will want to check with a local branch before starting the installation process. The company’s website features an extensive online photo gallery so customers can get inspiration for their own backyard makeovers. California Pools also boasts that it finishes 98 percent of projects on time and within budget, so customers can sit back and relax as they wait for the pool build to be complete.

Also Consider

Blue Haven Pools & Spas

Pool material types: Concrete, fiberglass, vinyl
Service area: 24 states
Financing options: Yes
Additional services: Pool remodeling
Customer support: Phone

Pros

Nine-time Pool and Spa News Top 50 Builder
Wide range of smart control, sanitization, and cleaning features and equipment

Cons

Fiberglass and vinyl inground pools only offered in select markets

Why It Made the Cut: Blue Haven Pools & Spas allows customers to customize their pools with a wide variety of exclusive SmartFeatures. Named nine-time Pool and Spa News Top 50 Builder, Blue Haven Pools & Spas is a well-known pool installation and customization company. The service area extends to 24 states, and the company does offer helpful financing options so ambitious customers can get the pool they desire instead of settling for what they can currently afford. Select locations install fiberglass and vinyl, but every Blue Haven branch can install concrete pools. One of Blue Haven’s notable features is its exclusive line of pool equipment and add-ons known as SmartFeatures that make it easy and intuitive to manage pool controls and cleaning. The SmartFeatures include pool control panels, jet systems, filtration systems, pool vacuums, pool heaters, pumps, and eco-friendly LED lights. Prospective customers can contact Blue Haven over the phone to discuss plans for a new pool or pool remodeling.

Honorable Mention

River Pools

Pool material type: Fiberglass
Service area: 18 states
Financing options: No
Addit

The Best Pool Installation Companies, Vetted