FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

1. What type of pools do you build?

We build custom, in-ground, gunite pools and spas.  What is Gunite? It is cement and dry or damp sand that are mixed without the addition of water, fed into a pneumatic gun, and applied by compressed air at a high velocity through a nozzle, where the necessary water is introduced and projected on to the surface. Unlike conventional concrete, gunite undergoes placement and compaction at  the same time due to the force with which it is projected from the nozzle. This makes gunite more dense, waterproof, and stronger  than can be achieved by any other process. The strength of gunite allows us to offer you a limited lifetime structural warranty. Because gunite is not placed or contained by forms, it gives us greater flexibility in design, allowing  us to craft our pools in unique shapes and sizes.  It also provides us with a better ability to overcome obstacles or limitations in  your backyard.  A custom designed pool can be manipulated to fit any space perfectly and achieve a spectacular, one-of-a-kind,  original waterscape.  

2. How is a gunite pool actually built?

A. After careful surveying, excavation is done with precision as the excavator and trimmers form the shape and depth of the design..

B. Where required, backing forms are placed to control the concrete on the outside of the pool. Precision measurements are made at all stages to assure that the pool exactly matches the design.

C. A steel reinforcement structure is built, to reinforce the Gunite. The creation of this reinforcement requires careful attention to dimensions, and the reinforcing rods are tightly tied together with wire to create a strong assembly that cannot move. The reinforcing rods are spaced a precise distance from any backing forms. 

D. All plumbing is installed for the pool, during and after the building of the reinforcing structure. Pipes extend into the pool and will be trimmed and fixtures attached at a later stage. All plumbing is tested before the Gunite is sprayed.

E. Gunite is sprayed on the reinforcing structure by an expert nozzleman, starting with the walls of the pool. Skill and experience are crucial to producing a strong pool. Once the Gunite is in place, it is carefully smoothed to prepare it for the plastering stage. A curing period is required before plastering can begin.

F. While the Gunite cures, plumbing and placement of the equipment is completed.  The pool shell is grounded for safety and electrical conducts are placed for lighting.

G. Decorative tile borders, coping, caps, and edging are applied to the pool, along with other features that are installed after the Gunite has cured. Depending on the design of the pool, the nature of this work varies.

H. Decking concrete and other detail work continues throughout this state of pool construction. The details vary from pool to pool.

I. Upon completion of the deck, the surface of the concrete is prepared for tile, stain, or acrylic dipping.  The work is completed and the pool is prepared for plaster. 

J. Plaster is applied to the pool surface, creating a smooth, waterproof finish.  There are choices for the interior, including a quartz finish, pebble rock or polished marble.  Examples of these finishes can be seen here.

K. Finally, the pool is filled, the chemical balance of the water is adjusted, the surface brushed, and all mechanical systems are tested.  The Homeowner is given a "Pool School" on maintaining their new pool and/or spa. The new pool is ready for a lifetime of aquatic recreation.

3. What about maintenance?  Will a pool be a constant headache?

Not at all. While it’s true that swimming pools require maintenance, most of it is quite simple, and you can do it yourself. Testing water quality is easy, and today’s water purification systems are automatic and easy to operate. Built in skimmers and filters keep your water sparkling clear, and pool covers keep larger debris out of the pool. Other maintenance chores, like pool openings and closings and cleaning are jobs for professionals. Oasis Aquatech Pools, Inc. will be happy to handle those chores, along with any equipment maintenance and repair. We can set up a regular schedule for you, or you can call us any time. We establish solid relationships with all our customers.

4. What are the benefits to having automatic in-floor pool cleaning and circulation system?    

• Cleans Entire Pool
• Always Swim Ready
• 99% Cleaning Guaranteed 
• Enhanced circulation 
• Saves On Chemical & Energy Costs
• No Routine Maintenance    
• Limited lifetime warranty on nozzles 
• Infinite position nozzle with no moving parts

5. Is it possible to have a remote to turn on lights, waterfalls, heating, etc.?

Remote control systems are available for separate pools and spas, as well as pool/spa combinations with shared equipment or separate circulation systems. You select from systems that control 4 or 8 accessory functions. All functions are controlled with one-button access from the totally self-contained load center. Optional controllers are available.

6. At a resort, we enjoyed a pool surrounded by large boulders. Can you build that?

We can. Many owners want to duplicate features they've seen in their travels, and we can recreate such features in a residential or commercial pool. From boulders and waterfalls, pools with an edge that disappears, to any other design, we can build a resort style pool for your luxury home. Let us show you how.

7. I sometimes see advertisements promising pools at very low prices. Should I consider this option?

It is actually possible to build a pool at a low price.  But you should be aware that to build a low cost pool, equipment, structural elements, craftsmanship, and design are all compromised. Besides ending up with a pool that doesn't fit your property because of improper design, using poor quality construction materials can also put you and your family at risk.  The old adage is still true: You get what you pay for.  At Oasis Aquatech Pools, Inc., we know that the cost difference between a great job and a poor job doesn't have to be significant. Your Oasis Aquatech Pools, Inc. Professional will work with you to determine a budget that meets your needs. We can custom design your pool to fit your financial parameters. The end result is a beautiful and dependable custom pool that is affordable and within your budget.

8. Why do cost estimates vary so much when the pools seem to be the same?

The price of a pool is determined by much more than just the size and shape of that pool. Unfortunately, many contractors don’t include important factors that affect cost in the actual estimate they give you. This also means that you can get hit with hidden charges after construction has begun. 

Some important things to consider are:  Quality of Materials; Craftsmanship; Design Expertise; Underground Strength and Durability; Customer Service; Time Required for Construction; Warranties  

Oasis Aquatech Pools, Inc. estimates always include the highest quality materials available, superior craftsmanship, expert design, and unparalleled customer service.  You also get the knowledge and expertise of more than 30 years of custom pool building experience.  And we never submit a low introductory bid with the intent of making expensive changes later.

9. How should I decide on the design of my pool?

Each property has unique features that should be considered when your pool is being designed.  So does your family! At your request, a design expert from Oasis Aquatech Pools, Inc. will meet with you at your home to discuss your pool needs and desires. He or she will ask you how you intend to use your pool. Is exercise important? How about family use?  What about location? Where will the pool look best when viewed from your home? Our design expert may take photographs, video, or sketches of your yard.  Then they'll prepare a custom design at no charge...a design that fits your needs AND your budget!  

10. I have a small and difficult yard to work with. Can I still have a pool?

Expert builders can construct quality pools in yards of all shapes and sizes. Our expert design team can work with the most challenging properties. You’ll be surprised by our innovative solutions that can turn your dreams into a beautiful backyard resort. Before you give up on your impossibly small yard or hillside location, call us for design advice. It's free!

11. Are there any additional options available to add to my pool? 

Technology is changing at an unprecedented rate, and swimming pools are no exception. Innovative water treatment options, fiber-optic lighting, spa products, remote controls, automatic cleaning systems, and many other options are now available to make your pool easier to maintain and more enjoyable than ever. Tell us what you would like, and we can show you how to do it.

12. How long will it take to build my pool?

This will depend on the weather and the size and complexity of your project.  Generally, we can complete the pool in 3-6 weeks.  

13. Do you remodel pools?

Yes, we can remodel any pool.  We provide total remodeling services, such as: removing and replacing tile, brick, and stone; adding water features; re-plastering and replacing the equipment.  We can also add pergolas, fire pits, fireplaces, putting greens, or a total outdoor living space.