Plunge Pool and Fiberglass Pool FAQ

At Palmingo, we believe in pinpointing the perfect intersection of style, functionality, scale, and cost for each client. With this in mind, we offer a vast array of solutions for small plunge pools, medium and large pools, pool and spa combos, and stock tank pools. Visit our “pools” section for more information.

A plunge pool is a small pool or “spool” that is larger than a hot tub yet small enough to heat for year-round use. Plunge pools are typically less than 10’x20’ with a depth around 5’.

Plunge pools can be enjoyed year-round! They’re big enough for fun, yet small enough for efficient heating and cooling. Additionally, plunge pools are rising in popularity because they are high-design, space maximizing, maintenance reducing, and versatile for in-ground, in-slope, and semi-elevated installation types.

Fiberglass pools come in a variety of prefabricated styles that match your ideal sizes and feature combination. They are cost effective, efficient to install, and come in a variety of colors. Fiberglass pools are lighter weight, which reduces crane costs and increases accessibility options.

For a drop-in pool to be feasible, we need a 10’ wide space for backyard access for heavy machinery and a level, sturdy area without overheard obstruction where the crane and its outriggers will setup.

The biggest drivers of cost are the pool equipment selections (temperature control, sanitizer, smart phone automation, and cover) as well as the hardscape footprint and materials.

The front-end administrative phase of projects can really drag on depending on the requirements of the jurisdiction and if your property or project scale trigger additional requirements before a pool permit can be granted. The sooner we can get started and move through the administrative phase, the sooner we can get the permit. Once we have the permit, we typically break ground within 2-3 weeks.

While our construction process is faster, your yard will still be up-ended for weeks. We do our best to set your expectations in advance, so be sure to ask us for photo examples from past projects throughout the process. There are also A LOT of inspections that have to take place in a specific sequence, which can be frustrating if progress stagnates as we wait for sign-offs. We try to progress in other areas, but we’re often limited in what we can achieve in the interim.

We recommend that homeowners budget an additional 10% for contingencies in the event of surprises or damage. Though we have utilities marked prior to construction, we still come across underground surprises, dense rock, and machinery-related damage on occasion. There also might be preparations required for the crane that weren’t identifiable during the first on-site crane assessment.

The warranty period, requirements, and process vary between pool and equipment manufacturers. All warranty claims will be handled directly between the homeowner and the manufacturer.

Never say never, but our current focus is on drop-in pools because with gunite, homeowners experience longer construction timelines, higher project costs, and more long-term quality issues.

Because of our model, we’re able to manage multiple overlapping projects with high quality service, frequent communication, and attention to detail. Our timelines are most influenced by the administrative phase. The sooner we can begin work on your design and permit application, then sooner you can swim. We typically break ground within 2-3 weeks of receiving the pool permit. Most pools are completed within 4 weeks and the finishing elements within another 2-3 weeks.

Yes, we build pools year-round and don’t have an “off season.” We experience pockets of wet weather that prevent short-term work, but we pick up where we left off as soon as it’s safe for our crews, equipment, and your site.

We recommend asking pool builders 1) to walk you through the full process and potential disruptions, 2) to talk line by line through the estimate and potential increases, 3) to confirm what isn’t included in their estimate, 4) how often they go over budget or beyond their expected timeline and what causes that other than official change orders, and 5) what issues are most common on jobs.