Frequently Asked Questions
Building a new pool and remodeling an existing pool are both good sized projects. If you're about to start (or have just begun) you probably have questions. Following is a list of common questions asked by our customers. If you have further questions, please call us at (866) 343-7665.

General FAQs Q: What cities does Hacienda Pools service?
A: Hacienda Pools serves the San Francisco, East Bay cities of Dublin, Livermore, Pleasanton, San Ramon, Tracy, Ripon, and Manteca.

Q: Where is your office located?
A: Hacienda Pools is located in Pleasanton, California. If you live in our service area, we will be happy to meet with you by simply calling (866) 343-7665.

Q: Are you guys associated with the Hacienda Pools in Southern California?
A: No. We are independently owned and operated.

Q: Is my backyard too small?
A: Hacienda Pools can build not only pools but water features such as waterfalls and 'spools' (large spa/small pool) in almost any size yard depending on city setback codes.

Q: How long does it take?
A: It generally takes from ten to twelve weeks depending on the size and complexity of your build (not including landscaping).

Q: How do we contain our dog (or other pets) during the construction?
A: There are several options and we will be happy to make suggestions after an onsite evaluation.

Q: Does Hacienda Pools offer financing?
A: Hacienda Pools is happy to refer you to a financial lending agency.

Q: What's the deposit amount? How much do I have to put down?
A: In most cases, the deposit is $1,000 - $1500.

Q: Who pulls (gets) my permits and sets up inspections?
A: Hacienda Pools pulls all the permits and arranges all necessary inspections.

New Pool FAQs Q: Can I change the layout of my backyard (decking)?
A: Yes. Hacienda Pools is very flexible when it comes to change. Keep in mind changes often raise or lower the costs.

Q: Can we dig during the winter?
A: Yes. Hacienda Pools can (and often) digs during the winter, but only under certain weather conditions using Hacienda Pools Flashing System.

Q: Can I go deeper than the plans?
A: Yes, as long as you decide to go deeper prior to excavation beginning. (May incur additional costs.)

Q: Will the build damage my sidewalk, driveway, sprinklers or landscaping?
A: In some cases there may be damage to your sidewalk, driveway, sprinklers and/or landscaping due to the machinery associated with the excavation of your pool. Generally pool builders will not include repairs associated with fixing this type of damage in their bids. If you would like Hacienda Pools to include these costs in your bid, please request we do so. If damage occurs, and these costs were not factored into your bid, the repairs and expenses will be the homeowners responsibility.

Q: Who repairs my fence?
A: After your project is complete, Hacienda Pools has personnel that will repair your fence. You may also choose to repair your fence yourself or with another contractor if you prefer.

Q: Are the materials in the street going to leave a stain?
A: Generally, the build materials will leave a haze or shadow until the next rainy season.

Q: How thick is the gunite?
A: The gunite is generally 7 to 12 inches thick dependent on the area of the pool. In specific circumstances, the engineer (or plans) may specify the gunite be thicker.

Q: How long do I have to water the Gunite?
A: After the Gunite is in, it is imperative that it be watered twice a day, for ten to fourteen days. Plan to spend fifteen minutes, twice a day with your hose (or portable-variable sprinkler) watering the new gunite.

Q: Does brick cost the same as stone?
A: Brick cost a little more to install due to cutting charges and material costs.

Q: Do I need a tile line?
A: Yes. Pools without a tile line will have a number of maintenance issues.

Q: When can I walk on the concrete (deck)?
A: To be safe, you should avoid walking on the concrete for 4 days after it is poured (until release is washed from deck).

Q: When can I swim?
A: It is dependent on surface, with certain surfaces you can swim within 48 hours after interior installation and start-up (others require up to 14 days). Ask your Hacienda Pools rep about the time for the specific surface you choose.

Q: Why is my pool fill line (spout that adds water to your pool) outside of my pool?
A: This unique feature to Hacienda Pools makes it very obvious when the fill line is on. Noting when your fill line is on can help you avoid unnecessary water charges.

Q: How often do I have to brush the pool while the plaster is curing?
A: Two to three times per day for seven to fourteen days.

Q: Does Hacienda Pools do the landscaping?
A: No. Hacienda Pools can recommend several good landscaping companies all of which offer the superior customer service you expect from Hacienda Pools and all of our partners.

Q: How long will it take to fill my new pool? How much will it cost?
A: Generally it takes between twenty-four and forty-eight hours to fill a pool. Water costs vary with respect to local water charges and size of your pool, but usually fall between forty and two hundred dollars.

Q: Why does Hacienda Pools fill, drain and refill my pool??
A: This is done to insure that the interior surface is well cured (helps prevent future cracking).

Q: How do I hide the skimmer lid?
A: Hacienda Pools offers a 'pour in place lid' as well as a rock cap alternative to the standard plastic lid.

Remodel FAQs Q: When is it time to remodel?
A: It's time to remodel when you want to do a cosmetic update, or if the pool has leaks, cracks, popping coping/tile line or other significant problems.

Q: Does it cost more to remodel than to build new pool?
A: In some cases remodeling can cost as much or even more than a new pool. Costs are dependent on a number of factors including features you would like to add, material costs, and also material quantities. Some materials have an industry minimum order. Small jobs may have costs that include extra materials to meet these required quantities.

Q: Can I use my current plumbing?
A: No. When remodeling a pool, Hacienda Pools recommends replacing plumbing to avoid problems due to preexisting issues.

Q: Can we keep or match my old decking?
A: Hacienda Pools doesn't recommend that you attempt to match the old decking. If you are taking the time and money to refurbish your pool, you should try to do the same to your deck.

Maintenance and Post-Build FAQs Q: How do I keep my kid(s) and pet(s) safe around the pool?
A: Pool barrier, wrought iron fencing, pool covers and sonar shields are good retaining options.

Q: How do I clean my filter?
A: Hacienda Pools will show you how to clean your filter, but we strongly recommend that you hire a service company to maintain your pool filters.

Q: Will my pool overflow when it rains?
A: It is normal for pools to overflow when it rains. Hacienda Pools always installs an overflow that drains excess water out of your pool.

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If you have further questions, please call us at (866) 343-7665.