FAQ

It would be helpful to provide pictures or design ideas and any features you want to include. For example: Size, shape, depth and features you would like to consider such as sun decks, waterfalls, special lighting, planter boxes, firepits, etc.

The scope of every project is different, and the quality of materials and workmanship can vary greatly from one builder to another. Additionally, every house and property are different, so it’s hard to compare pricing. Having our own in-house crews build your pool is one of the many reasons we are preferred by so many in and around Longview for pool construction and customer service.

Now! Don’t you wish it was already built? For the most part, the favorable weather here in East Texas allows Pools of Longview to build pools year-round so you can focus your time on you, your family, and your project.

Our team will: Excavate and grade your backyard, install plumbing, electrical, and other necessary components, build the pool with custom features, install decking, water features, and any additional structures, fill the pool with water and adjust the chemicals.

No, you do not have to be home at the time of build with a few exceptions. Most of the pools we build are when the homeowners are away.

To ensure the highest quality of work, make sure to find a pool builder that is reputable and established, has overall good reviews online or references from friends, someone who will treat you with honesty and integrity, can prove quality workmanship, has an in-house design team, has an office/showroom, owns their own equipment, does not have any hidden charges and who will communicate openly with you throughout the process.

Pools of Longview designs custom pools based on your wants, needs and available space. Your property survey will show the area of your property where we can place the pool and still abide by the appropriate guidelines. Our expert designers can work with almost any yard layout. You may be surprised at how we are able to maximize space in creating your aquatic landscape!

Here at Pools of Longview we customize every pool to our clients’ needs and wants. Our initial consultation will show you visuals and educate you on just what a basic pool would be for you.

A crucial part of your pool that people often overlook is the warranty. As a pool buyer, finding a pool builder that will still be around to honor your warranty well after the construction process is complete is important. Pools of Longview has workmanship, structural and equipment warranties, so you can trust that we'll be here for any needs throughout the warranty period. Pools of Longview deals directly with manufacturers on all equipment warranties. Pools of Longview offers a 3-year warranty on all pool equipment.

The good news is that chlorine IS salt, so either way you can’t go wrong. The purpose of using either salt or chlorine is to remove organic material from your pool and keep it clean and sanitary. Salt water pools require the installation of a salt water chlorine generator which uses the process of electrolysis to free the chlorine molecule from the salt. The alternative is adding chlorine directly to your pool. Either way, it's chlorine that’s doing the work so it's all about the method you prefer.

Start-up is the term we use when talking about the initial balancing of your pool chemicals. Here at Pools of Longview, this is a very detailed process. We will be with you and your pool making sure that it is started and maintained properly. We routinely brush every one of our pools at startup. This process is very important for the longevity of your plaster. For the entire first year of your (gunite) pool’s life it is still curing. It is especially important for the first few weeks that it is taken care of properly. We will provide guidance to help make sure that that happens.

Pool School is when we meet at the customer’s house and sit down and go over all the chemicals and the process of maintaining the swimming pool on a weekly basis. We also go over how to use all of the pool equipment, remote systems and how to program and use everything.

After the pool is filled it is a one-week process to get everything balanced and ready for you to take over should you choose to. Pool School will be scheduled immediately prior to the pool being filled with water. Of course, we would love for you to be present so you can see how hard our employees work and how full of pride all of our crews are. You will need to be home or provide access to the home just a couple times during the construction process. I.e. Electrical installation, installation of alarms. Pools of Longview is with you from start to finish and will give you as much advance notice as possible to work around your schedule.

The biggest benefit is the consistent Pools of Longview quality that you will receive! Our field crews have been with us for years and our crew leaders have decades of experience! We take pride in what we do, and you can be assured that if there is a mistake it will be addressed right away. We do not have to wait for a subcontractor’s schedules to allow time to come back and fix issues. Another great benefit is the speed and efficiency with which we can complete the jobs. This comes from being in control of our crew’s schedules and having the ability to do what we say we will when we say we will.

The difference between a replaster and a remodel is the level of redesign. A replaster is the perfect option if you want to revamp your current pool. This process involves removing and replacing the pool's interior finish, ensuring it looks brand new. On the other hand, a remodel can involve more extensive changes to your pool's shape and features, including installing new tile, coping, water features, decking, spas, outdoor kitchens, and anything else you could want or dream up.

Contact us via our website at www.poolsoflongview.com, call us at 903-444-7946, or schedule an appointment with us and visit us at:

4597 US Hwy 259
Longview, Tx 75605.

We are always willing to work around your schedule to make it more accommodating for you.

A gunite pool is a type of inground pool that is highly durable and
customizable. Gunite, a mixture of cement, sand, and water applied through a
high-pressure hose, forms the pool’s strong structural base, which is then
finished with plaster, tile, or stone.

In general, gunite and shotcrete are types of concrete. The difference lies in how
they are all applied.
Concrete is a mixture of cement, water, sand, and either gravel or stone. When
mixed, it forms a liquid that can be poured into a form. As the concrete dries, it
turns into rock-like material that is resistant to breakage and extremely strong.
In pool building, gunite and shotcrete come into play as their difference lies in
when water is introduced into the mix. Shotcrete is the wet mix process where
everything is already mixed, loaded in cement trucks, then delivered to your
property. There, it will be applied manually by the crew.
On the other hand, gunite is the dry mix process. This means that the crew
building your pool loads the dry cement (without water) into the delivery
equipment. The water is then added to the dry mix at the nozzle of the hose at
high pressure. Because of this pressure, the mixture compacts, and concrete is
created right in the air before it hits the rebar.

Gunite is the cement shell that fills in the rebar framework and forms your new
pool, while the plaster is the waterproof final coating that gives it a gleaming
interior surface and a nice smooth finish.

We cannot emphasize enough that wetting the entire shell is critical to achieving
the highest strength and minimizing absorption. It takes time for the residual
moisture to evaporate from the water-soaked gunite slowly, but it needs time to
do so, and this avoids trapping water in the gunite, which will cause it to absorb
faster and weaken. Typically, wetting down the shell takes seven days.

Choosing a gunite pool means investing in unmatched durability and endless
design flexibility. These pools stand out for their ability to be crafted in virtually
any shape or size, offering you the freedom to customize your pool to perfectly
suit your space and personal style. Whether you dream of a classic rectangular
pool, a free-form lagoon, or an intricately shaped artistic masterpiece, gunite is
the material that can bring those visions to life.
Moreover, gunite pools excel in accommodating a wide range of custom
features. From elegant custom steps and relaxing tanning ledges to captivating
integrated waterfalls, gunite pools allow you to enhance your swimming
experience and backyard aesthetic with unique elements that reflect your
lifestyle and preferences. Opting for a gunite pool means choosing a
personalized retreat tailored to your desires, promising years of enjoyment and
beauty.
Gunite pools elevate the aesthetic and functional aspects of a space and also
deliver a genuine and luxurious swimming experience.

The construction timeline can vary based on the complexity of the design, size of
the pool, and weather conditions. On average, the process from excavation to
finishing touches takes about 6-8 weeks. We strive to minimize any
inconvenience and keep you informed throughout the process.

Installing a custom gunite swimming pool can add home value with the actual
percentage influenced by your home’s geographic location. Additionally, much
like your home itself, the value contribution of a pool is expected to appreciate
over time, further enhancing your property’s market worth. This investment not
only elevates your living experience but also contributes to your home’s
financial growth. On top of that, your pool will add non-monetary value to your
home, including priceless memories with family and friends, a relaxing escape
after a long day at work, and a consistent source of exercise and stress relief.

Pools of Longview will visit your property to collaborate with you in creating a
pool that perfectly aligns with your preferences and aspirations.
To accurately capture the essence of your space, our design specialist may
utilize photographs, video recordings, or sketches of your yard. We will then
create a custom pool design proposal.

The perception that swimming pools are significant energy consumers has
been changed by recent technological advancements, which have reduced the
average pool’s electricity usage by about 65%. These innovations focus on
efficiency and sustainability, ensuring that owning a pool is more eco-friendly
and cost-effective than ever before. Through the introduction of
Energy-Efficient Variable Speed Pumps, the pumps can use up to 75% less
electricity compared to their single-speed counterparts. By operating longer at
lower speeds, they save energy and help keep the pool cleaner and clearer
with constant, gentle circulation.
The increase is minimal when compared to the money you’d otherwise spend
on entertainment, vacations, and trips to the waterpark!

Maintaining a swimming pool has become significantly easier with
advancements in technology and equipment. Innovations like automatic
cleaners, salt-based chlorine generators, ozonators, and pool covers have
transformed pool maintenance, making it a more straightforward and less
time-consuming task.
These tools handle much of the cleaning, chemical management, and debris
protection, cutting down on manual labor and allowing more time for
enjoyment.

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.
At Pools of Longview, we know that the cost difference between a great job and a
poor job doesn’t always have to be significant. We will work with you to determine
a budget that meets your needs. We can custom design your pool to fit your
financial needs. The end result is a beautiful and dependable custom pool that is
affordable and within your budget.

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
● Unseen underground issues
● Customer Service
● Time Required for Construction
● Warranties
Pools of Longview’s estimates always include the highest quality materials
available, superior craftsmanship, expert design, and unparalleled customer
service. You also get the knowledge and expertise of decades of pool building
experience. We never submit a low introductory bid with the intent of making
expensive changes later.

Surprisingly, construction costs for the pool structure itself do not vary greatly
from pool to pool. Prices can be affected slightly by ease of access onto your
property, demolition requirements prior to construction, and local permit costs.
The size and design of the pool affect the cost too, but not as much as you might
think.
Much of the variation in price is based on what is called “softscape” and
“hardscape.”
Softscapes are living, growing elements of a landscape, such as trees, shrubs,
flowers, and grass. Softscape elements can add natural beauty, a sense of
tranquility, and seasonal variety around your pool. Hardscapes are non-living
elements of a landscape, such as concrete, bricks, stone, and other hard materials.
Hardscape is placed around your pool to enhance its design. Elements can include
patios, walkways, decks, walls, and structures like gazebos, sheds, and pergolas.
Hardscape is usually designed and installed before softscape. The size and materials
used in your deck, patios, waterfalls, gazebos, planter walls, and other features
can be simple or sensational. As the customer, you have the greatest influence
on your total budget as you control the design of your pool’s hardscape.

Never! And you can bet that equipment suppliers and other contractors will
charge you more than the actual value of the materials and work. Even the
experts encounter incredible challenges during pool construction. Years of
experience, knowledge, and specific training lead to wise and innovative
solutions that produce our superior quality finished products. At Pools of
Longview, we can offer you enormous buying power, efficient construction, and
we also coordinate all of the work so that you experience no hassles and no
headaches.

Technology is changing at an unprecedented rate, and swimming pools are no
exception. Innovative water treatment options, LED lighting, spa products,
automation, cleaning systems, water features, fire features and many other
options are now available to make your pool more enjoyable than ever.

We recommend you match the quality of your pool to the quality of your home.
Historically, we have found that if you budget for an amount proportionate to your
home’s value, you will enjoy a beautiful finished product that complements your
home very nicely.

Gunite pool construction involves multiple phases:
● Planning and Design
● Permitting
● Layout and Excavation
● Steel Frame Installation
● Plumbing Installation
● Electric and Equipment Installation
● Application of the Gunite
● Installation of Tile and Coping
● Deck Installation
● Plaster/Interior Finish
● Start-Up

Soil is subject to moisture changes from inclement weather. We cannot operate
in saturated soil due to the increased risk of machinery getting stuck and the
excavation site caving in.
The type of soil dictates the way it responds to moisture. For example, clay soil
holds moisture better than sandy soil, making it less likely to collapse on the
excavation site during heavy rains. However, it also takes longer for the moisture
to completely dry out, sometimes leading to longer delays.

Swimming pool automation gives you control over your pool with the push of a
button. You can control your pool’s circulation system, filter system, and heating
system using either a hand-held remote, your phone, or a mounted wall panel.

Gunite pools can be made into any size and shape, depending on the wants and
needs of the homeowner. Some of the most popular shapes are Geometric,
Figure 8 and Freeform.

Most fiberglass pool installation projects cost $45,000–$75,000 on average, with some being less and some being more.

Extra features and upgrades will, of course, increase that price further.

You don’t need to purchase many chemicals or run the equipment as much equipment to kill algae. The long-term pool maintenance is much less expensive with a fiberglass pool.

This is the manufacturing process:

1. Gelcoat is sprayed onto the mold.
2. Hand-laid chopped fiberglass with 100% vinyl ester resin is applied.
3. Chopped fiberglass with polyester resin is applied.
4. Woven roving is applied at stress points for extra strength.
5. Structural honeycomb material is applied to support the side walls.
6. The final layer of fiberglass with polyester resin is applied.
7. Shell cures in the mold.
8. Pool shell is removed from the mold.
9. Excess fiberglass is trimmed.
10. Check for quality assurance at multiple checkpoints before leaving production.

1. Excavate the soil.
2. Set and level the pool.
3. Install the plumbing, electrical and filter system.
4. Backfill the pool shell.
5. Fill the pool.
6. Install the coping and decking.

It only takes about 2-4 weeks to install a fiberglass pool. This includes the pool, the patio, and landscaping.

You can actually swim in your pool within a few days!

Yes! The water in a fiberglass pool expands upward, not outward.

Cold weather will not cause the pool to crack.

Most fiberglass pool shapes fall into one of these categories:

• Geometric/Rectangular
• Freeform
• Kidney
• Roman (rectangular, with arched ends)

Fiberglass pools from Pools of Longview can be as small as 8 ft. X 14 ft. and as large as 18 ft. by 42 ft.

Fiberglass pools are constructed from a mold in a factory, so the options are pre-customized. The prefabricated shapes are designed by engineers with decades of experience in fabrication and market demand, so we’ll be sure to have a size and shape that will fit your needs and budget.

It is indeed a custom pool. You can customize:

• Gelcoat color: much more vibrant than standard pool plaster
• Waterline tile
• Decking materials: brushed concrete, stamped concrete, pavers, flagstone, etc.
• Water features: descents, deck jets, waterfalls, etc.

A properly installed and maintained fiberglass pool will not float or pop up.

First, we install a sump tube so you can monitor and remove groundwater. We also lock the pool and patio into place with reinforcing rods and a super-thick concrete bond beam.

Second, your pool should always be filled with water. The weight of the water helps prevent the pool from popping up and floating.

The structure of the pool will last as long as the home—certainly 50+ years.

Our American Fiberglass Pools have a lifetime structural warranty, which states the pool shell will not leak as long as it’s used as a regular pool.)

The gelcoat surface will last decades as well, if properly manufactured and maintained.

As with anything with extreme exposure to the sun, pools will lighten to some degree, but it will do so gradually and evenly.

If properly manufactured and maintained, the gelcoat surface of a fiberglass pool is the most durable pool coating available, both in terms of appearance and life expectancy. Proper water chemistry will prevent premature or uneven fading of the gelcoat.

A lifetime structural warranty is standard on every American Fiberglass Pool. Further, a meaningful written warranty is given on the cosmetic finish of each American Fiberglass Pool.

Fiberglass pools need the least maintenance of the three pool types.

The gelcoat doesn't have pores and cavities like traditional pool plaster. It's smooth and resists algae. 

Each pool manufactured by American Fiberglass Pools is done so under rigid quality-controlled conditions. Starting with 40 mils of gel coat, the thickest in the industry, American Fiberglass Pools is the originator of the use of vinyl ester resin on swimming pools in the United States, first doing so in 1977, and the unique 5-ply fiberglass stitch mat process. American Fiberglass Pools does not use fillers or cores in the manufacturing process of its pools that may diminish the strength or structural integrity of a pool's shell. The use of only the latest technologies assures our customers of a lifetime of worry-free fiberglass pool ownership.

We use clean, crushed, angular stone for backfill. Unlike sand, it does not move or change its properties when wet.

We use plumbing straps providing even more support to the plumbing. We do not use flex pipe!

We use reinforcing rods and a concrete collar to lock the pool in place. This prevents your pool from moving and separating from your patio.

We use only rigid schedule 40 PVC on all our fiberglass pools. The sump tube we install will give you access to the bottom of the hole where your pool sits. More importantly, it gives you access to the groundwater that collects there. You need to be able to remove that groundwater if a professional needs to drain your pool.

A vinyl liner pool is a swimming pool with a custom-made vinyl liner that separates the water from the structure of the pool. The vinyl liner is a flexible, durable material that's designed to withstand water, chemicals, and sunlight. A vinyl liner pool has five main components: Wall panels, a pool base, vinyl liner, steps and coping.

The wall panels make up the walls of your pool, everywhere except the steps. The most common material options are steel, aluminum, or polymer. We prefer to use polymer wall panels due to their strength and durability. These wall panels are typically 42 inches tall, so the shallow end of vinyl liner pools is typically that depth.

A pool base is typically made of vermiculite. We apply the material mixture on top of the soil with a round-edged pool trowel, and then install the liner on top of it.

Vermiculite is a mineral that expands when heated and often exists in the form of clay. However, what we use for inground swimming pools is a little different. Pool vermiculite is a mixture of the mineral known as vermiculite and Portland cement. When preparing to lay the foundation of the pool, we mix the vermiculite with water. When mixed with water, it turns into a material with a similar consistency as cement. This allows for the vermiculite to be spread and smoothed out along the pool floor to create a stable but forgiving base because of its relative softness.

We recommend using a thicker vinyl liner, such as a 27 mil. Thicker liners cost more and are harder to handle, but they provide extra protection.

There are two common types of steps for a vinyl liner pool: White polymer steps and vinyl over steps. Polymer steps are the standard for vinyl liner pools. Vinyl over steps is premade, with many options available. We will install the liner to fit over the steps.

Excavation, size, shape, features, liner thickness, quantity and type of steps and benches, coping, wall panels, decking, professional installation, just to name a few.

Low initial cost, Quick construction, customizable shape, smooth liner surface