Yes.  Whether you opt for a spa based on the amount of space you have, or simply for personal preference, you can build a spa in your yard without a pool.  The same custom design and construction techniques are available, as well as decking and landscaping options.

Depending on the size of the pool and other design elements, it typically takes 8 to 12 weeks to complete the construction of a gunite swimming pool.  Compared to other pool building materials, concrete, or gunite, pools take the longest time to finish.  This is largely due to the time required for the concrete to cure.  The project's complexity, weather, and labor required can also contribute to the time needed for completion.

Gunite is a mixture of sand, cement, and water that is applied over the structure of the pool at a high velocity, allowing it to compact the material on placement.  This material bonds together without creating joints, planes of weakness, or cracks. Gunite creates a strong and consistent coating and is ideal for customized pool designs.

A big responsibility in owning a pool is keeping it maintained.  Keeping your pool clear of debris, and testing and treating the water are the major tasks. However, pool maintenance is a simple routine once you know what you need to do.  This is why Lucas Firmin Pools offers “Pool School” to new pool owners, and also has a maintenance service that makes it even easier on you.

The cost of a pool can vary greatly depending on a number of factors; size, design, materials, and equipment specifically.  Obviously a larger pool or pool and attached spa will cost more than a smaller, or cocktail pool.  Other variations will depend on the type of pump and other equipment you opt for, as well as considerations like landscaping, decking, tile, stone, lighting, water features, and more.

Choosing a pool builder is arguably the most important decision you’ll make in the pool building process.  Recommendations from friends and family who have built a pool can be very valuable.  Also check online reviews, websites, and social media for examples of their work and what other people have to say.  Once you’ve decided on a couple of potential builders meet face-to-face to get a better understanding of what to expect.  You should also get a bid with a breakdown of the schedule from each builder. 

When it comes to the water in your pool you’ll have two options; chlorine and saltwater.  Both types of pools use chlorine as a sanitizer to keep the water clean.  The main difference is that saltwater pools use a special chlorine generator that produces chlorine through electrolysis and adds it to the required amount of this less harmful chlorine automatically into the water.  This prevents you from having to manually add chlorine to the pool. 

Building a pool is little a groundbreaking experience.  The excavation process is one of the largest undertakings that occurs in the pool building process.  The excavation of your pool can take a few hours, or a few days, it all depends on the size and design of your pool.  Excavators are used to remove the dirt from the site of your new pool.  Smaller excavators can be used depending on the space and design, and these can minimize damage to your yard.  The excess dirt will be hauled away, but some may be saved for backfilling.

Once your pool is excavated and the steel and plumbing have been installed, the gunite process begins.  This will be when your pool begins to take shape.  The gunite will be shot at a high velocity from a hopper type truck and will cover the steel reinforcement bars.  Once applied it will be finished with trowels that deliver the shape and texture for your pool.  Once the gunite is applied and smoothed it will need to set and cure for several days.  During this time rain and other debris will need to be removed.  Once cured, the gunite can be plastered, which will cover any small, innocuous cracks.

Absolutely.  In fact small pool designs, or cocktail pools, are becoming a very popular option, especially for places with space limitations.  A small yard no longer means that you can’t enjoy a pool. Cocktail pools not only meet your space needs, they are also easier to maintain.  These smaller designs can include anything a larger pool can, including: lights, water features, decking, landscaping, and more.

Yes, Lucas Firmin Pools performs pool inspections.  If you are considering buying a home with an existing pool, it is a good idea to have it professionally inspected.