General Questions

How can I be assured that your company is a reputable, quality pool builder?
First of all, check our list of references. There is no better way to become comfortable with our quality standards and customer service than to speak directly with our existing customers. Secondly, call the local Better Business Bureau and confirm that our company is in good standing with them. To have a 'Satisfactory Record' with the Bureau, a company must be in business for at least 12 months, promptly and properly address matters referred to it by the Bureau, and be free from any unusual volume or pattern of complaints or law enforcement actions involving its marketplace conduct. You can also check with other local professional organizations to research our reputation and workmanship. Last but not least, always check with the California State Licensing board. (See our 'Links' page)

Can you help me design the best pool for my backyard?
Certainly! Our staff will help you select the right size, shape and overall layout of the best pool for the area you have to work with. We understand that each home is different and each homeowner's taste and style will reflect the pool design. We will help you with all of the details, including any add-on options, such as waterfalls, landscaping, etc... that you would like to include.

What does a Pool cost?
Pool costs vary dramatically, it depends on the location, condition of soil, size and complexity of features. Inground gunite pools can run from $34,000.00 and go up from there, depending on the situation and amenities selected.

Does West Coast Pools, Inc. offer financing?
Yes, West Coast Pools, Inc. does offer financing.

What's the deposit amount? How much do I have to put down?
In almost every case, the deposit is two hundred dollars ($200).

How much maintenance does a pool require?
Maintenance of your pool is extremely important. It shouldn't be labor intensive, but just like you can't ignore your car or HVAC system in your home, the pool does require some attention. The efficient design of our pools, will make your pool maintenance as easy as possible. Dual timers, chlorine generators and pool cleaners aid you in this.

How long does it take to build a pool?
It generally takes between 8 to 10 weeks from excavation,... depending on the size and complexity of your build. (Not including landscaping)

Who pulls (gets) my permits and sets up inspections?
West Coast Pools, Inc. pulls all the permits and arranges all necessary inspections.

Will you support and help maintain my pool after it is completed?
We build relationships. Just because we've completed your pool, does not mean that our relationship ends. With each pool we build, we include one month service with a highly skilled technician to keep your pool in peak condition. You are welcome to deal direct with with our 'start up' company for future months of service if so desired. But we are always here to help in anyway way we can.

How can I be assured you're using quality parts and equipment when building my pool?
We use only the best parts and equipment available in the industry. When speaking with our staff, you can learn more specifically about the brands that we use.

Do I need a tile waterline?
Yes. Pools without a tile waterline may have a number of maintenance issues.
There are however, certain surfaces that will allow for there to be no waterline tile.

When can I put water in my pool and swim?
It depends on the pool finish, with certain surfaces you can swim within 24-48 hours after installation, others require up to 14 days. Ask your West Coast Pools, Inc. rep about the 'swim' time for the specific surface you choose.

Why is my pool 'fill line' (spout that adds water to you pool) above the waterline?
This feature makes it very obvious when the fill line is on. Being able to notice when your fill line is on, can help you realize maintenance issues early, and avoid unnecessary water charges.

How often do I have to brush the pool while the plaster is curing?
Two to three times per day for seven to fourteen days.

Does West Coast Pools, Inc. do the landscaping?
West Coast Pools, Inc. does it all! We love it when our customers would like to finish off their beautiful pool project with landscaping! Landscaping is the finishing touch that accentuates the pool! Make sure to include landscaping in your design estimate!

How long will it take to fill my new pool? How much will it cost?
Generally it takes between twenty-four and forty-eight hours to fill a pool. Water costs vary with respect to local water charges and size of your pool, but usually fall between seventy-five and one hundred fifty dollars.

New Pool Questions

Can I change the layout of my backyard (decking)?
Yes. West Coast Pools, Inc. is very flexible when it comes to change. Keep in mind, changes often raise or lower cost.

Can we dig during the winter?
Yes. West Coast Pools, Inc. can (and often does) dig during the winter. However, rain sometimes does delay the project.

What heavy machinery will drive on my yard or driveway for access?
The excavator's 'bobcat' & front end loading tractor will pass in and out of your yard 150-300 times to dig the pool. No dump trucks or concrete trucks will typically cross on to your property. Some trades may use the driveway for unloading material from pickups or small flatbed trucks.

Will my sidewalk, driveway, sprinklers or landscaping be damaged?
In some cases there may be damage to your sidewalk, driveway, sprinklers and/or landscaping due to the machinery associated with the excavation of you pool. Generally, pool builders will not include repairs associated with fixing this type of damaged in their bids. If you would like West Coast Pools, Inc. to include these costs in your bid, please request that we do so. If damage occurs, and these costs were not factored into your bid, the repairs and expenses will be the homeowners responsibility.

Who repairs my fence?
After your project is completed, West Coast Pools, Inc. has personnel that can repair your fence. If this cost was not covered in your bid, there will be an additional cost. You may also choose to repair your fence yourself or with another contractor if you prefer.

Are the materials in the street going to leave a stain?
Generally, the building materials will leave a light haze or shadow until the next rainy season.

How thick is the gunite?
The gunite is generally 7 to 12 inches thick depending on the area of the pool. There are specific circumstances when the engineer (or plans) may specify the gunite to be thicker.

How long do I have to water the Gunite?
After the gunite is in, it is imperative that it be watered twice a day, for ten to fourteen days. Plan to spend fifteen minutes, twice a day with your hose (or portable-variable sprinkler) watering the new gunite.

Maintenance and Post-Build Questions

How do I keep my kid(s) and pet(s) safe around the pool?
Safety is a primary concern for swimming pools. There is no substitution for parental guidance around pools. There are several new technologies for helping monitor your pool. There are alarms that sense rapid water movement (someone in the water) and then set off an alarm inside the home. There is a perimeter laser barrier that sets off an alarm if someone gets close to the pool. A pool camera is also available that turns on with motion and sets off an alarm in the home as well as projects a view of the backyard to an inside monitor. Pool barriers or wrought iron fencing are good retaining options with spring loaded self closing/latching gates.

How do I clean my filter?
West Coast Pools, Inc. recommends that you hire a service company to maintain your pool filters.