Expertise: Pools

There are hundreds of reasons to get a pool. From improving your property value to cooling down on hot, humid summer days, getting a pool is a great investment. It can be daunting to begin the process, stay on track and stay under budget, but it can be done.

Bryan Hull, co-owner of Del Val Pools and Spas, says the best way to do that is to create a plan and stick to it while understanding the value of the project. House & Home spoke with Hull about how to keep costs within budget and get the project done on time.

What is the No. 1 mistake homeowners make when building their pool?
I don't know if there are any mistakes when building—as a pool can increase the value and salability of a home—but our Del Val Pool representatives often hear clients say they wish they had done this or done that. My advice would be go a little bigger, get a sundeck and maybe some waterfalls. You will be thrilled with each.

What often causes delays in production or uptakes in costs?
The No. 1 production delay for Del Val Pools is weather, which is simply beyond our control. We do all the work ourselves—no subcontractors—so Del Val controls the schedule and the material costs. Changes in the middle of construction will result in an increase in costs. Stick with the plan, and Del Val will bring the project in on time and on budget.

What costs do pool owners not often realize or account for when starting a project?
Most of Del Val's customers come into the process well-educated and well-informed on costs associated with constructing a pool. That's our best customer—one who understands what things cost and the value a pool brings to a home.

How can pool owners continue to keep costs down after the pool installation is complete?
It's easy—maintain your Del Val pool like you maintain other areas of your home.

How can making the right decisions early in the process help save big money in the long run?
As with anything, changes in the middle of the project are costly. They increase time on-site and usually require additional materials. The best approach for a Del Val project is to plan your work and work your plan.

How can you keep a project on budget without sacrificing quality and the added features you want?
If you want to keep a project on budget and on time, then work with a pool contractor who owns all aspects of the construction. Subcontractors are variables and variables can add time and cost. Work with your Del Val pool planner to have a full understanding of your wants, needs and timetable. Finally, work with a pool contractor with experience. At Del Val Pools and Spas, the third generation of the Hull family is bringing custom pools to life. We say that with a strong measure of pride. Let that experience benefit you!

Del Val Pools & Spas
4431 Route 42 | Blackwood, N.J.
(856) 629-2999
DelValPoolsAndSpas.com

Published (and copyrighted) in House & Home, Volume 23, Issue 12 (October 2023).
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