Your Guide to Choosing the Right Pool Builder in North Texas
Building a pool should be an exciting journey—not a stressful one. The key? Choosing the right builder and designer. At Weston Pools LLC, we believe informed homeowners make the best decisions, so here’s honest, practical advice to help you navigate the process.
Start with the Designer—They’re the Foundation
Pool design is personal. Designers often gravitate toward styles they love, so you’ll see recurring themes in their portfolios: organic, free-form shapes with soft curves for a natural look, or sleek modern designs with crisp lines and 90-degree angles.
To find the right match, try “reverse engineering” the interview:
• Ask the receptionist or front desk who their favorite designer is—and why. You’ll be surprised by their candid insights from daily interactions.
• Chat with a veteran superintendent if possible. They know the real strengths (and weaknesses) of the team.
• Look for for designers trained through the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA) Builders Program or GENESIS® education—these professionals understand North Texas challenges like expansive clay soils, elevation changes, drainage, retaining walls, and subtle grade shifts that can add thousands in unexpected costs if overlooked. A skilled designer captures every precious inch of your yard’s topography, preventing surprise addendums during excavation. Avoid rookie mistakes that lead to five-figure change orders—choose a builder with a proven, experienced staff. Meet with at least three builders, but space out appointments. Today’s top designers and salespeople are in high demand and highly trained on the latest materials and technology. Respect their time—they’ll go the extra mile when they feel valued.
Why Pools Are a Smart Investment in Today’s World
With uncertainty outside our homes, more families are investing in backyard sanctuaries. Demand has surged, driving up material and labor costs. In the late ’90s, pools averaged $18,000–$35,000 (often financed). Today in North Texas, quality custom in-ground pools commonly start at $55,000–$80,000 for entry-level, with mid-range projects (including spas or features) ranging $80,000–$130,000+—of which many buyers pay cash for todays market.
The good news? Pools now add real value to your home appraisal (unlike in the past), and strong builders maintain solid relationships with their labor force. The best ones bring key phases in-house, pay subs promptly, and earn loyalty—ensuring your project actually gets built on time.
Pro Tip: Always ask for recent referrals and call them. Listen to real experiences.
Things You Can Do Right Now to Prepare:
1. Call 811 — This free service (already in your utility bills) marks underground utilities in your yard. It’s state law for contractors to call before digging, but builders aren’t liable for hits. Familiarize yourself with flag colors at http://Texas811.org (note: sewers often aren’t marked).
2. Check for sewer lines — If you suspect one crosses your build area, hire a licensed plumber for an opinion. Hitting a sewer can cost thousands and cause major delays—builder responsibility ends at “underground utilities.”
3. Budget for extras — Landscaping (don’t end up with just dirt around your new pool), sprinkler re-routes, and potential utility adjustments. Get quotes early.
4. Confirm utility markings — Especially power lines.
5. Know your jurisdiction — City limits or county? Permits and rules vary—don’t rely solely on the builder.
6. Require line capping — Insist the builder caps sprinklers before digging to avoid damage claims.
Minimum Criteria for Any Builder
Protect yourself with these non-negotiables:
1. At least $1,000,000 in General Liability Insurance.
2. Provides lien waivers from subs after each phase (including equipment—request a release for pumps, filters, etc., to prevent repossession issues).
3. Offers a structural warranty from the gunite/shotcrete company (backup if the builder folds).
4. Has a real physical address (not just a PO Box).
5. Is a paid member of the Better Business Bureau.
6. Strong Google rating—read reviews and verify recent referrals yourself (beware fake positives).
7. Final payment at plaster (not before)—change contract language if needed. Complete punch list items first—no surprises after plaster.
8. Understand your soil—North Texas expansive clay cracks with drought/rain cycles. Check free public tools (USDA Web Soil Survey) for your area’s composition and have a Professional Engineer give his recommendation. Helical piers and or soil injection are most necessary here in Collin County as we have some of the most expansive soil in the USA.
9. Equipment warranty of at least 3 years (common with larger builders).
10. 1-year warranty on defects in materials/workmanship for plaster, plumbing, electrical, and masonry.
11. Have builder put in writing that they will follow the TCNA handbook regulations for all masonry work above and below the waterline.
Recommended Options & Upgrades
• In-floor cleaning system — Expensive upfront, but optimizes circulation and keeps your pool ~90% spotless. Request the manufacturer’s jet placement plan to hold the builder accountable.
• Auto-fill system — A must-have. No more dragging hoses during vacations or weekly top-offs—protect your investment.
• Glass bead plaster finish — Combines pebble’s durability with smooth, comfortable texture. More reflective, colorful, and foot-friendly than traditional pebble.
During the Build: What to Expect
• Site respect — Crews work hard but can leave trash. A polite reminder goes a long way.
• Longest waits — (A) Pre-dig backlog (permits, engineering, weather, access, HOA). Dig day is quick—one to two days providing no rock. (B) Tile & coping—the most detailed phase. Skilled masons are scarce in Texas heat; delays happen. These craftsmen are artists—don’t rush them.
• Approve materials on-site — Natural stone/tile varies by batch. Inspect before installation to avoid “who pays for this, it doesn't look like what was in the showroom!” disputes.
Before Plaster: Stay in Control!
Create a detailed punch list. Set a deadline (e.g., complete within X days). Don’t plaster until the punch list is complete—once plastered, the builder is in control of expediting the punch list and has been paid in full. Make final payment after punch list complete.
After Plaster:
1. Clean/backwash your cartridge filter.
2. Get a professional water test (Leslie’s does free samples).
3. Maintain weekly tests—consider a service plan. Warranty claims often require proof of regular care.