I am Interested in a new pool

Key questions to ask when interviewing pool companies

How long have they been in business?
When making your decision about the company that will fulfill your backyard dream, consider the company's history and ask to visit the contractor's place of business. See if they are real! Many new builders or those with cash flow problems may work out of their house or truck. More established swimming pool companies own their own building or showroom where they may display materials or provide video presentations of completed projects. The key question to ask yourself is whether a company will be around in the future should something go wrong with your pool.

Shoreline has been designing and building pools for nearly 40 years. Over 5,000 families have entrusted the pool of their dreams to Shoreline. We are the most experienced pool company in metropolitan area.

Do they build or simply sell Pools?
While most pool companies sell pools, they really have little or nothing to do with the actual construction of your pool. At best they are project managers; at worst they may be pool brokers. Ask the contractor how much work will be done by subcontractors. Remember, if a contractor fails to pay a subcontractor, that subcontractor can place a lien on your property.

Shoreline builds customized pools with its own specialized labor force and equipment. From our excavators and shotcrete trucks to our forming crews, masons, and plumbers we not only control the quality of work, but also the timely completion of the project.

Is this the only business they are in? Can they also handle other property development projects?
For many contractors, the pool business is not the only thing they do. It may not even be the main thing they do. Many are landscapers or homebuilders. Find out what constitutes the bulk of their business. Building pools as a sideline can have disastrous effects on the process and the final product.

Shoreline's only business is building, renovating and servicing swimming pools and spas. We have nearly 40 years experience, expertise and resources to handle every aspect of a new pool installation. We specialize in pool, spa and site design, material recommendations and all construction including decking and masonry.

Are they properly insured, licensed and industry-accredited?
A reputable pool builder will provide you with evidence that they have workmen's compensation and liability insurance along with the necessary state licensing documents. Ask if they are members of any professional industry or trade group, and if so, are they accredited by these associations.

Shoreline's insurance by conforming "A" rated carriers meets and in most cases exceeds all statutory. We provide a "Proof of Insurance" for every job. We are properly licensed with all state agencies and clearly display our licensed numbers on our stationary and contracts. Not only are we members of The Association of Pool and Spa Professionals (APSP), Northeast Spa and Pool Association (NESPA) and the Connecticut Spa and Pool Association (CONSPA), but we are also accredited as being both a "Certified Pool Operator" and as a "Certified Pool Builder". In addition, most of our pool technicians are also designated as either TECH I or TECH II APSP industry certified. Also, where appropriate, Shoreline is also certified with individual manufacturers in the installation of their equipment.

What kind of Warranties do they provide?
A good pool builder will stand behind their product through their warranties. These should be clearly written as part of their contract. Remember, a company's warranty is only as good as the company itself. Pool builders with strong reputations and outstanding records will always have warranty programs with the industry's top-quality equipment manufacturers.

Shoreline's warranties are among the best in the industry, including pool shells that have a lifetime structural warranty. All warranties are clearly displayed as part of our contract. Shoreline only uses top quality materials, equipment and supplies from recognized industry manufactures, and will provide that information upon request.

What kind of facilities and resources do they have?
Shoreline's main facilities include multiple warehouses, a construction yard, and an employee training and showroom facility as well as two office buildings which house our customer care operations, production scheduling, and general administration departments. We encourage all prospects to visit us and to meet project managers. We can give you a tour of our equipment and materials, and let you examine the latest in pool safety features with a demonstration of automatic pool covers.

Do they have a service division?
Many pool builders do not have a service division. To protect and maintain your valuable investment choose a builder who can help you in the event a warranty issue should arise. You should give just as much consideration to the service and maintenance issues as to construction.

Shoreline's service division is second to none. With over 100 radio dispatched fully equipped trucks and vans, Shoreline can handle any emergency quickly. Our warehouses are the largest in the area, carrying a full range supplies and parts to ensure your pool is restored to proper operating conditions as soon as possible. Dedicated customer care representatives and area managers can answer questions, resolve issues and, if need be, dispatch our certified TECH I and II technicians to your location immediately. With a variety of flexible service options and plans, we are the service provider of choice.

How quickly can the project start and when will it be completed?
Most owners want to be swimming as quickly as possible. If a company is unable to secure the proper building equipment, or fails to properly apply for, schedule or pass building inspections. Working with a pool builder who uses subcontractors increases the risk of a delayed start or a lengthened production time.

Because Shoreline uses its own labor force and equipment, we effectively control and expedite the building process. Our equipment is maintained with dedicated in house mechanics ensuring that all of our trucks and equipment are in proper working order. Our 40 years of experience working with numerous local town and building departments allows us to streamline the inspection process.

Who will obtain the necessary permits?
Obtaining the necessary approvals and permits is getting more and more complicated. Every town has a different set of rules concerning property setbacks, easements, zoning issues, septic reserves, lot coverages, wetlands, and pool barrier codes. Developing and submitting pool schematics and mechanicals are now a requirement to have in many districts. Town ordinances can effect pool placement and size. . Make sure to ask your contractor what role they play or services they provide, as many pool builders are simply not equipped to handle this properly.

Shoreline has a permit department that does nothing but secure permits. For difficult sites and projects we work with engineers and landscape architects to develop a suitable plan that balances regulatory compliance with the aesthetic look and functionality of the project. Shoreline prides itself on removing this burden from the property owner.

Who will design my pool?
Most reputable builders can plot a simple rectangular or geometric shaped pool. However, design takes on more meaning and importance as spas, decking, and water features are incorporated. Complex site conditions can also have an enormous impact of the project. When this occurs, it's best to get the help of an experienced Landscape Architect. Non-rectangular designs like naturalistic, infinity-edge (also refered to as vanishing or negative edge) pools are very complex from both a design and engineering perspective . In most cases these factors will exceed the capabilities of most builders. If your project involves one or more of these features, ask to a few of their completed projects to make sure they have the necessary experience.

Shoreline gives you the option of using either our own skilled team of designers or your own design with which we coordinate with one of our extended network of landscape architects. Shoreline has built over 5,000 pools encompassing every type of design, feature, budget, and site condition imaginable. We will be proud to let you review our past projects.

Are they recognized within the industry?
Ask about any awards or professional testimonial letters that a prospective company has received from its fellow industry professionals. Reputation and recognition within the industry are very important since they validate the level of quality in their products produced and within services rendered.

Shoreline is an award-winning company recognized among its peers for its design. We are also the pool company of choice among dozens of leading landscape architects and high-end residential builders.

Are they locally owned or franchised owned?
Some pool companies are either franchised, or operate like one with little or no real ties to the community. Ask who owns the company and what is their level of involvement with the company. Many owners no longer have an active role in the company.

Shoreline Pools has been locally owned and operated by the Lionetti family since 1969. Now in its third generation, the Lionetti family, along with its dedicated management team and field staff, still embrace the fundamental vision that the company was founded on, providing exemplary attention to detail in planning, craftsmanship, materials and service. Shoreline Pools considers itself as an integral part of the business and social communities that it serves, and regularly contributes and participates with numerous charitable and non-profit organizations. We are also proud members of several local business and commerce development associations.

Will they provide me with a written estimate?
Reputable pool builders will provide you with a written estimate or cost range for your pool project. They should also make you aware of various options and their related costs. This will allow you can make an informed decision before the project begins, instead of making one once the project is underway, which might well end up being much more costly.

Shoreline regularly provides written estimates along with options for alternatives and upgrades. In addition, we review these estimates with home owners to ensure they understand all possibilities for a project.

What kind of quality controls are in place to ensure your pool is properly built?
Ask how a company proves the actual value of their materials and workmanship. Many cost-focused contractors are not direct builders and rely heavily on subcontractors or, even worse, sacrifice quality by purchasing inferior materials or by using shortcut methods.

Shoreline has dedicated project managers and crew chiefs that are on-site and oversee every phase on every job. Because we use our own specialized labor force and equipment, we control the quality of every project. Every project has an approved structural drawing detailing the specifications of the project and thus acts as a road map for our technicians. We only work with the finest materials and use "full rated" equipment.. We also have our own standards and measurements, which exceed normal guidelines such as our own controlled formulaic concrete mixture, pneumatic pressure standards for shotcrete application, optimal floor and wall thickness, and steel bar reinforcement and placement—all of which are time-proven. Choice materials, equipment and systems are the keystones of Shoreline quality, ensuring you a lifetime of pride and enjoyment.

How easy will they make it for me to have my own pool built?
Depending on the pool company you select, adding a pool to your property can be a simple process or a nightmare. You shouldn't have to be involved on a day-to-day basis…unless, of course you want to be. Remember, you are paying the pool company for their experience and expertise to get the job done and done right.

When you build a pool with Shoreline, an entire Shoreline TEAM will be working for you. An expert Shoreline Pool consultant will work with you throughout the project, providing you with ideas along the way, as well as answering any questions you might have. Shoreline's permitting department will prepare and obtain the necessary documents and inspections you will need for you new pool. A Project Manager will oversee the construction of your pool from start to finish. And when the job is completed, Shoreline will ensure a smooth transition to our service department so your pool will be taken care of for years to come. Let the Shoreline TEAM work for you and all you'll have to do is watch them turn your dreams into reality.

Ten Tips for Building a Swimming Pool

Before you start wading through volumes of manuals, and have dozens of contractors come and give you a free estimate for your swimming pool construction, read the following ten tips. Heeding this simple advice could save you a great deal of aggravation and money, in the long run.

Remember that you are embarking on a construction project, not just buying a product.
Swimming pools are custom construction projects built by many individual trade and pool contractors with different specifications. All pools are not built the same, unlike an automobile or similar big ticket items which are manufactured in factory controlled conditions. With swimming pool ownership, as with any construction undertaking many costs are not readily visible.
Ask a lot of questions.
Do not assume every builder is willing or capable of educating you on the complicated process of constructing a pool. Do your homework. The more you know and understand, the better buyer you will ultimately be.
Be decisive.
When someone gets ten or more estimates for swimming pool construction they often cannot make a decision because they have become overwhelmed with information. Do your due diligence and get three or four estimates from reputable swimming pool companies. Make your decision and go with it.
Research potential contractors thouroughly.
Check out the experience level and background of a contractor. What makes them qualified to build swimming pools? Consider the saying, "If you think the cost of a professional is expensive, wait until you hire an amateur."
Consider all factors, not just price.
Usually if a deal seems too good to be true, it is! If you shop for price alone you are destined to be disappointed. You usually get what you pay for.
Visit a potential contractor's place of business.
Do not get estimates or hire contractors over the phone. It is impossible and a waste of time. Visit the swimming pool builder or have them come to your home to provide you with an estimate.
Realize that there is no "cheap" time of year to build.
We have seen increases in steel prices, concrete shortages, gas increases, and insurance premium hikes. Pools don't get cheaper as time goes on; swimming pools will never be less expensive than they are today.
Read any and all contracts.
Make sure all agreements are in writing. It is very difficult to cancel a contract with many contractors after the obligatory 3-day rescission period. The contract should protect you AND the contractor.
Focus on the mechanicals of the project.
Hydraulic design, flow rates, pipe size, pump and filter types, chemical management systems, and many other factors will make a difference in the ability of your swimming pool to stay clean and sanitized.
Remember, safety first.
Swimming pools can be a great place to recreate, to exercise, and to just enjoy the outdoors. They can also be dangerous. Make sure you know what your city requires for barriers and fencing. More importantly, make sure you protect the ones you care for, especially protecting the ones that cannot protect themselves.