NEW POOL FAQ’s

Who will help design my pool and backyard poolscape?

We’ll design together using our 3-D state-of-the-art realistic imaging to provide you a computerized look of your dream pool. Just give us a call to arrange an-in person or zoom appointment with one of our highly-experienced expert design specialists. Our designer will create a total pool and backyard environment right before your eyes making your outdoor spaces an extension of your home. If you have any questions about one of our pool designs or features please contact our pool design center and we’ll be happy to answer them.

Do you do in home consultations?

Yes, our qualified sales staff are available by appointment to meet you at your home, measure the yard and create a custom design including a complimentary YouTube Video of the project.

What is the cost of having a design consultation?

A design consultation is absolutely FREE! One of our expert designers will be happy to assist you in the design of your personal backyard oasis.

How much is the deposit?

The standard deposit is 15% of the total project and is due at the time of the contract signing (Per ROC Guidelines).

Do you handle the necessary permits?

Yes, we handle all of the necessary permits and will assist with your HOA approval.

Do you do Landscaping?

No, we specialize in “Hardscapes” including pools, spas, water features, decking, outdoor kitchens, turf installations and Pergola’s. We have several excellent partners and can easily provide recommendations for landscapers.

Do you do Remodels?

Yes! We have a dedicated team that does both commercial and residential remodels. We will come and inspect the property and in combination with the owner, specify a scope of work and budget to make your pool beautiful again!

What is the time frame to build a pool?

Once you approve the design and before we actually build the pool we have to go through the engineering and permitting process. The engineer creates the blueprints that will be presented to the building department to obtain a permit and that generally takes about a week. Then after approving the plans they are sent to the building department in your specific municipality. Each municipality is different in the way they process plans, but generally it takes between one to two weeks. There are exceptions though, like an architectural review or a home owners association approval that can delay things by a couple weeks. Once the job is permitted it is started within a week and typical construction times run between eight to twelve weeks. Again that may differ based on the specific municipality and their inspection procedures. It also will depend on the scope of your particular project and what’s involved.

How difficult is it to maintain a pool?

Some individuals choose to clean their own pools and maintain their own chemicals, however, Platinum Pools & Spas now offers very low maintenance pools that automatically clean, chlorinate and even maintain their own water levels. These systems eliminate nearly all pool maintenance, so you can spend more time enjoying your Platinum Pool.

What is a salt water pool and what are the advantages?

In terms of a residential swimming pool the term salt water pool means a pool that has a salt chlorinating system. This system is comprised of a control panel and a conversion cell, both located at the pool equipment, and simple table salt added directly to the pool water. A properly salted pool contains 3,000 parts per million of salt to water whereas the ocean contains an average of 35,000 parts per million, so you can see that there is actually very little salt in your pool water. Then, when the pool pump is operating, the salted water passes through the conversion cell which has a series of electrically charged titanium plates that create an electrolytic process that breaks down the salted water leaving a mild form of chlorine to be recirculated back to the pool. This is a pure and safe sanitizer that destroys bacteria and algae in the pool leaving you with crystal clear soft water that is gentle on your skin, hair and eyes. Furthermore, you no longer have the responsibility to transport and store harsh chemicals with this convenient and simple chlorinating device.

How deep can I build my pool?

Shallower pools is the trend with today’s pool; in a shallower pool, more of the pool becomes usable, and that’s what people want. Building the pool shallower avoids this situation in most cases saving the homeowner the added expense. Most pools today are built from 3′ in the shallow end to 5 or 5 1/2′ in the deep end and occasionally they are built a little deeper.

What size does a diving pool have to be?

Pools with diving boards require a sloping bottom that leads to a diving zone. To safely accommodate a diving board, you can expect the minimum length to be 32-feet long. If you live in a subdivision or master-planned community, you may not have the space in your backyard to accommodate an extra-long swimming pool. As a consideration, diving board create less space to play unless you have a large pool. If your goal is to provide your family and friends with a safe space to splash and play, a diving board may not be the right choice for your family.

What is a play pool?

A play pool is usually defined by the depth of the water. A classic pool or a diving pool will be shallow on one end and deep on the other end. A play pool is shallow on both ends and deep in the middle. This allows for extra room to play and makes for a good volleyball pool.

What is a lap pool?

A lap pool is designed primarily fro exercise as the name suggests for swimming laps, so they need to be long. Lap pools are typically about 40 feet long, but they can reach up to 75 feet. Their width ranges from six to 10 ft. Experts recommend a minimum depth of 3-1/2 feet so swimmers don’t scrape their hands or feet on the bottom.

What is an Infinity or Negative Edge pool?

Infinity pools are also known as infinity edge pools, vanishing edge pools, negative edge, zero edge, or disappearing edge pools.

Infinity pools should be designed to highlight a view, but in every case. It’s just a cool effect. Our designers can create an infinity pool that gives an illusion of a sheet of water dropping off over the edge of the property, like a waterfall, although you can’t see or hear falling water. It will appear to as if the water meets the horizon.

What is a Natural pool?

Natural pools are also known as which can be designed in a freeform, rustic style with boulders and waterfalls, or it can be modern or architectural—sleek and elegant.

Natural pools usually cost about the same as or slightly more than conventional swimming pools, depending on landscaping which play an important part in the overall poolscape.

Is there enough room in my yard for a pool?

Almost any yard is big enough for a pool. Our customers are often surprised by the many pool options available for smaller yards. We would be happy to send one of our qualified designers out to your house. While at the property, the designer will measure the yard, take into account all of the various rules, regulations and set-back requirements and design a custom pool that fits in your specific backyard. Please contact us today to set up an appointment!

How do you get into my backyard to dig my pool?

There are a number of ways this can be accomplished, and we are experts at finding the right way to approach your project. We have specialized equipment (Triple Mini Bobcats) that can work in tight spaces (as small as 3’6”) and our designers are available for home consultations and can assist in determining the best access into the back yard.

What is the difference between an easement and a setback?

Setbacks are guidelines established by each municipality that determines the distance a particular structure must be from the property lines. This pertains to your home, swimming pool, shed, roofed terrace, concrete slabs and in some cases your pump and filter for your pool. The setbacks for each municipality and each type of property within that municipality are different.

Easements are designated areas for use by the various utility companies such as COX, AT&T, Southwest Gas, SRP or APS to name a few. Easements are established when the property is platted, long before construction begins and usually run along the perimeter of some properties. They are designed to allow the utility companies to run their respective lines throughout neighborhoods and maintain them when needed. Easements can be in the front, rear or sides or more than one at the same time. Nothing permanent can be constructed in these designated areas. It is important that you deal with a contractor like Platinum Pools that is current on all the zoning laws in each municipality in order to have your plans approved by the building department without delays.

Do I have to “winterize” my pool?

Winterizing a pool is a practice from some of our Northern states where freezing is a considerable problem. In the arid desert climates such as ours, there is no need to winterize your pool.

Is there a particular type of pool equipment that we use?

Yes, we are proud to be partnered with Hayward and Paramount Products.

What is a variable speed pool pump?

Variable speed pumps are one of the newest items in the pool industry. These pumps automatically monitor and adjust flow rates to optimize performance and minimize energy use. They have an on board computer that will calculate and program minimum flow requirements for every pool task and as the task changes the pump will self-adjust to maintain optimal flow rates for further energy savings. They are extremely efficient and produce far less heat and vibration resulting in less stress and wear on the pump so it has a longer life.

What are the types of pool filters?

The pool surface water passes through an automatic skimmer, and then passes everything through a filter for cleaning before re-circulating back into the pool

There are three types of filters commonly used: sand, cartridge and diatomaceous earth (DE).

All three types of filters work well when properly installed for the right size poos and are and well maintained. We can advise you which filtration system is best for your pool.

Sand filters are the oldest and most common method of pool-water filtration. They use special filter sand to trap dirt and debris. As the sand particles “load up” or become clogged, they trap smaller and smaller particles. Sand filters are cleaned by backwashing, which involves reversing the water flow through the filter and flushing the dirty water into a waste line.

Cartridge filters use large cylindrical cartridges to screen out dirt. Most pool builders recommend using cartridges with 500 to 600 sq. ft. of filter area. Unlike sand filters, cartridges don’t require backwashing. Instead, you simply rinse them off with a garden hose, a process that uses much less water than backwashing.

Diatomaceous earth is a porous powder that has microscopic openings, similar to tiny sponges. As water passes through the openings, particles are trapped. DE filters can strain out dirt, dust, algae and some forms of bacteria. When DE filters become dirty, they’re cleaned by backwashing, but use far less water than sand filters. Afterward, fresh DE is added to the filter.

What type if cleaning systems are available?

There are several types of robotic and in-floor cleaning systems to choose from. When it comes to cleaning the pool, self-cleaning systems include

suction cleaners that harness the power of water, while robotic cleaners just blow water around the pool so it can be lifted and removed out through the skimmer. However, the best technology that automatically removes debris and dirt from a swimming pool is called an in-floor cleaning system or a smart pool. It uses cleaning heads situated strategically on the floor of the more efficiently moving and lifting dirt and debris for removal. In-floor systems keep pools the cleanest.

Why is pool water circulation important?

A pool’s circulation system uses both filtration and sanitization to keep the swimming water clean and crystal clear.

Pool cleaning systems move water around to circulate heat from the top of the pool to the bottom as well as effectively aiding in sanitation. Again, In-floor cleaning systems are superior for cleaning and chemical distribution for a healthy pool.

What kind of pool decking is available?

The deck you include around your pool is important to pull your pool and landscaping together, keeping in mind that your pool is the main focal point. There are several options for swimming pool deck surfaces to choose from for creating your perfect backyard poolscape. Some of the most popular decking options today are deck coating, flagstone, pattern concrete, travertine, and pavers

What is a waterfall spillover spa?

A pool with a tile spa is practical, relaxing and a beautiful sight to behold. Imagine a raised spa with a spillover edge that cascades into your pool, creating beautiful sound and movement. The best part about spillover spas is that you can customize them using your favorite tile. This is where you can really play with decorative and other kinds of intriguing tile for an incredible effect.

What about pool and landscape lighting?

Water features look incredible during the day, but the can really come to life at night! Showcase your incredible design with pool and landscape lighting. Don’t let your beautiful water feature fade into the darkness by not illuminating it with pool lighting. You can also outline the perimeter of your pool or spa.

What are fire and water bowls?

Fires and water do mix in your swimming pool. A fire bowl adds a stunning effect. Flames dance atop what looks like a pool of water. Fire water bowls for pools can be installed at the edge for a dramatic effect, or on top of pillars. You will find pool water bowls with lights, concrete water bowls for pools, and a variety of styles.

How messed up will my yard get if I build a pool?

We will come in many times with large equipment, multiple crews and vehicles. Sounds bad doesn’t it. Building a pool can be a bit messy at times, but a good company like Platinum Pools and Spas will keep the job-site clean throughout, so the work area remains safe for you and your family. Then when finished the entire area, including the access will be graded and raked clean of all debris.

Why are waterfalls and fountains a good idea to add to a pool?

Outside of the obvious ambiance, there are a number of benefits of having a waterfall or water feature on your pool. In Arizona’s especially hot climate, waterfalls, and fountains are almost a necessity in your pool. The constant moving water introduces more oxygen which helps cool down the average water temperature in your pool, helping you stay relaxed in the baking Arizona hot sun.

Water that’s moving throughout your pool also helps keep your water clean. Working in tandem with your pool pump, the additional airflow and circulating water helps evenly distribute chemicals throughout your pool and move water through your filtration system.

What does a waterfall cost?

The cost of adding a waterfall depends on size and materials, but an entry level ballpark figure would be between $5,000 and $10,000. Some extravagant waterfall systems can cost upwards of $30,000.

What does a fountain cost?

Project prices typically range from $1,000 to $4,000 but can cost as little as $500 or as much as $8,000. Depending on factors like the size, complexity, and material, expect to pay between $200 and $4,000 for the precast unit, excluding installation.

What are scuppers water features?

If you’re aiming for an old-world feel for your swimming pool like ancient roman architecture, scuppers are an excellent design choice. Think of them as sconces for the pool. These pool features come in all shapes, sizes and finishes and can be mounted along a wall or you can use a large scupper with the cascading water as a focal point.

What are cascades or sheer descent waterfalls features?

A cascade, also known as a sheer descent waterfall, is another feature that will utterly transform your pool. These differ from scuppers in that they look like horizontal strips of cascading water rather than the cylindrical stream that comes from a spout. If you love a contemporary design, a sheer descent water feature coming from a tile or stone wall will help you achieve that look. Its thin stream of water is almost translucent, and the quiet fall of water creates a relaxing and soothing environment. It can also be illuminated.

What are deck jets?

Another way to add drama and a hint of fun to your pool is with build in deck jets. Swimming pool deck jets are sometimes referred to as laminar deck jets. Deck jets can be installed into pool decking, gunite pool walls, or even in sidewalls. Deck jets are installed so that they are mostly out of sight. They can also be hidden in your landscape to add a touch of surprise. The graceful water arc shoots from the jets into the pool, creating a sophisticated pool feature design.

What does a waterslide cost?

Adding a waterslide pool feature to your backyard ramps up the fun in the hot, summer months. You’ll find standard waterslides as well as creative waterslides for certain aesthetics. For example, kid-friendly slides pre-manufactured or customized slides can be made using pool tile. It depends on what size and type you want so it’s hard to estimate until we determine the design of your pool.

What kind of interior pool finishes are available?

Pool interior finishes can be as simple as white plaster to jewels that dazzle and delight.

There are numerous beautiful swimming pool interior finish options available From the straightforward simplicity of standard white plaster to a rainbow of multi-colored finishes.

Plaster color selections. From classic white to colors for a luxurious look for all pool styles for all tastes. This element is crucial in the appearance of the pool, since it determines how the color of the water will look. Plaster is a relatively “soft” finish compared to other options and one that may be susceptible to the effects of water chemistry that with other interior finishes.

The ultimate answer for beautiful and more durable interior surface finishes is Micro-Pebble which comes in brilliant shades of water color including our custom blend of iridescent multi-hue, gem-like crystals we call “Gem Stones” for a truly dazzling look. Pebble surfaces consist of small, smooth river pebbles embedded throughout the pool’s interior surface finish.

The added beauty of color and textures like FUSION SERIES BY FINEST FINISH BLENDS, pebble pool surfaces offer a variety of unique design to create the perfect appearance.

Pebble pool surfaces are generally low maintenance pool finishes. When looking to resurface your pool, it’s smart to look into how much maintenance, time and money you are willing to put into it after it’s finished. If you don’t want a pool that requires a lot of brushing or that will easily stain, a pebble pool surface is a good idea. Most pebble pool surfaces are stain-resistant and very long-lasting. These surfaces have a nonslip finish that is easier to clean than plaster, and they require cleaning less often than plaster surfaces.

What is a swim-up bar?

Floating through crystal-clear water to refresh your margarita at your private swim-up bar is no longer limited to island luxury resorts. The concept of the swim-up bar is something many people include in their pools for serving food and drinks for the ultimate enjoyment in adult leisure culture. The bar can be a part of your pool complete with bar stools.

What does an outdoor kitchen consist of?

Outdoor kitchens are very popular right now especially in Arizona and can be constructed in a variety of ways. They can be prefabricated units that might be limited in design or custom built in place like Platinum Pools does and includes a variety of appliances. The appliances are made of stainless steel to withstand the elements and might include a BBQ grill, refrigerator, sink, side burners, and several different configurations of stainless steel drawers and cabinets. The kitchens are finished with stone, tile, brick or something similar and might include counter space for food prep and additional seating.

Are you licensed and insured?

Absolutely. We carry a 2 million-liability policy and require a 2 million policy of our trades as well. We carry a license in every county and city in which we work.

Can you provide and estimate to build my pool?

Yes. We prefer to conduct a phone conversation to discuss your vision; then we meet you at your lot to evaluate setbacks, the building envelope, topography, etc. At that point, we can provide a “ballpark estimate.” A detailed estimate and budget involves several more meetings.

Do you offer a warranty?

We offer a Limited Lifetime Warranty of you pool shell. You will receive a variety of manufacturer’s warranties. In addition, we provide a “2 Year Warranty” which completely covers every item not covered by manufacturer’s warranties.

How do I arrange financing?

We have excellent relationships with lenders that provide pool construction loans and will help you every step of the way, or you can use a lender you have selected. Before meeting with your lender, we provide you with a detailed, computerized cost program designed to meet your budget requirements.

Because your new pool will be designed and built around your budget, you and your lender can depend on the cost program for its accuracy. You will have peace of mind knowing that your budget will not be exceeded due to unexpected cost overruns.

Do you have references?

Yes, of course. We will be glad to send you a list of homeowners, homebuilders, suppliers and banking references.

How do I get started?

Simply give a call to arrange an appointment. Initially, we may call you for a phone or ZOOM consultation, and then schedule a time to meet at your home to measure your yard and discuss your custom pool vision and requirements. There is no charge for these meetings.

Once we meet and have heard your ideas and our pool design specialist has presented materials, features, finishes, equipment and operation technologies that you may want, we will begin the design phase.

Our designer will consider your home’s architecture, backyard, landscaping and all your ideas, then begin designing using a 3-D state-of-the-art realistic imaging design creating a complete pool and yard layout and provide a detailed estimate for your dream pool.

If you would like, you can visit our Design Showroom to see all that’s available to you and select the items you want with your pool.

Everything is built around your budget where all costs are established up front and there are no hidden fees.

Our services always include pulling permits, working plans, engineering plans and permits, subdivision and architectural review approvals, lot feasibility, survey reviews and community covenants.

One of the most important decisions you will have to make is hiring the right pool builder. We want you to get the best of everything and pledge to exceed your expectations.

From start to finish we will guide you along the way. It doesn’t end with your first splash, we back up your pool’s construction and equipment far beyond.