We started to entertain a pool in 2009 but chose to wait. Gee the cost only went up 40% sans hot tub. In that time we bought a J-335 Jacuzzi and intend to integrate it with a cement pad, mask it with landscaping and use the pool beam as a step. After talking to friends and evaluating our use of the tub it was best to go pool only. In the middle of the summer I studied up so, when PBs came to my house we would have a productive conversation. I met with Hauk, Hobert, Foley, Riverbend, LakePointe, LeisureScape and Premier. Two of these builders never called back after spending at least an hour at the house, taking measurements and discussing budgets...red flag. Two other builders didn't have good online feedback or didn't provide completed pools for a reference as trust gesture. Hauk, Foley and Riverbend are top tier builders in North Texas. We chose RiverBend but would have been confident using the other two top PBs. Hauk might be the 500 lbs Gorilla in a few years for N Texas (IMO).
We chose pavers instead of cement, upgraded to pebble plaster and will add a heat pump. The ground in our hood is very hard and chalky. No foundation issues have been reported to my knowledge in the 14 years of this HOA. I felt confident in the long term prospects of owning this pool while intending to be buried in the backyard in 2060. The land is great for home ownership but landscaping is a $itch. In our contract I placed a cap on the rock time as to hedge my bets. Everything is negotiable even the warranty.
Let's build a pool......crazy look from wife. Kid will treat me like a hero for at least three month after the first swim. I'll take what I can get. Researched from every angle, elec, gas, water, time management and long term maintenance. The utility providers have these great online tools to manage your home in real time.
The fence on top of the retaining wall will be replaced soon as we share fences in our city. It's 12 years old and it was never stained. My neighbor is slow walking the process, he thinks I might just go ahead and pay for the whole 60 feet. It's a common game people play in this city but I have confidence he is a good man and will come through in a timely manner.
The PB contacted me today and let me know that the permit phase has begun. The hot tub in the rendering will not be in that location....moved behind the sheer wall beam.
Still researching AqualCal vs Jandy Heat/Chiller Pump. The Jandy product allows computer controller integration where as the Aqua Cal is a manual process. My instinct tells me that once you program this it's like an indoor HVAC Thermostat, it's only touched during extreme weather changes. I spoke to Jamie Pittman, nice guy, industry veteran, AquaCal regional rep and a great resource. Will probably call Assam from AquaCal soon. I know this will only extend my pool season. April to Oct is the goal. Also called the local HVAC service centers as to reliabilty, durability and first hand experience of working with AquaCal. Opinions are welcome as to the Heater/Chiller. Intend to get a solar cover for April/May and Sept/Oct.
WOW! I am hoping your yard can handle the equipment for the dig after the rains.
