Before you start designing your swimming pool, you’ll want to discuss warranties with your builder. Every pool warranty is unique in the type of coverage it offers, and the kind of coverage you receive will depend on the type of swimming pool you design and install.
The following guide will help you understand the warranty options available to you as you start designing your pool construction.
A Manufacturer Pool Warranty: What Does It Cover?
If you’ve recently purchased any appliance or electronic gadget, you’re already familiar with manufacturers’ warranties. These cover the repair or replacement of defective equipment under the condition that you, as the consumer, follow basic preventive maintenance practices.
It’s a similar concept when it comes to buying swimming pool equipment and materials. Whether that includes state-of-the-art energy-efficient equipment or a specific swimming pool finish, warranties will cover the materials used to construct the fixture.
Pool Equipment
From diving boards and slides to pool covers and pumps, each item you add to your construction efforts comes from a different manufacturer. Therefore, it’s important to remember that multiple companies will deal with a broad range of pool equipment problems.
Additionally, every product comes with different coverage. While a pool cover might come with a 12-year warranty, for instance, your diving board’s warranty might only last for up to three years.
Hot Tubs and Spas
You might decide to install a pool/spa combo or add a separate hot tub, and though the design of your spa or hot tub might resemble your swimming pool, remember that a different manufacturer will provide the hot tub’s components and materials.
As such, it’s best to talk to a Blue Haven Pools on the Gulf representative about the manufacturers we work with when installing spas and hot tubs. We can give you precise warranty information for any design that interests you.
Warranties Based on Swimming Pool Structures
As for the swimming pool’s structure, the materials you choose will determine the type of pool warranty you receive. Only two types of pool structures qualify for manufacturer warranties, though: vinyl and fiberglass finishes.
Fiberglass Pools
A fiberglass swimming pool actually comes with two warranties. A structural warranty covers the swimming pool shell, while a second warranty covers the exterior gel coating. Both come with their own stipulations, coverage periods, and terms.
Vinyl Swimming Pools
Warranties for vinyl pools are more limited, primarily covering immediate defects and leaks. Replacing a vinyl liner due to normal wear and tear is the sole responsibility of the pool owner. The warranty will also cover defects in the plastic seams, but these are another issue that will arise instantly upon installation.
Workmanship Pool Warranty
It’s not uncommon for a pool builder to offer a workmanship warranty, which covers the craftsmanship of the pool’s construction. In addition to covering the basic construction of the pool, some builders add extra protection. By shopping around, you can compare workmanship warranties between pool builders in your community.
Gunite Pool Workmanship Warranties
A specific type of workmanship warranty covers the construction of gunite pools. A properly installed gunite pool can last a lifetime, but it’s still comforting to have warranty coverage for this type of pool. Since these pool construction projects depend on the quality of the concrete, an experienced gunite pool builder can provide a more durable product.
What to Know About Your Swimming Pool’s Warranty
As you discuss warranties with your pool builder, knowing what to ask them will prepare you for a more positive warranty experience.
Here are a few suggestions to help you get started:
Does the Warranty Transfer to a New Owner?
When buying or selling a home with a swimming pool, make sure to research the pool warranty that’s in place. Some coverage might extend to the new owner, while others may terminate when ownership passes to a new individual. And since each piece of equipment has different coverage, keeping track of everything can be a challenge.
Additionally, you’ll want to ensure you have a clear understanding of the warranties associated with the swimming pool and equipment, as that can give you extra negotiating power.
What Are the Warranty Conditions and Exclusions?
In the event that you have to file a claim, you’ll want to do everything possible to avoid warranty claim rejections. Make sure you understand the terms for each warranty ahead of time, as failing to keep up with preventive maintenance or making repairs can invalidate your coverage. If you have any questions about a warranty, call the manufacturer’s or builder’s customer service line.
The manufacturer can claim that your (in)action has contributed to any problem you are reporting. And in that case, they might decline to cover your claim even after you file an appeal. Overturning a claim rejection can feel like an impossible or uphill battle, even when you’re sure you acted appropriately. From proper equipment use to seasonal care, follow the manufacturer’s suggestions precisely.
Why Is It Still Important to Save Your Receipts?
From the moment you start planning your pool build, save copies of every purchase agreement, contract, and receipt. There’s no way to tell what documentation you might need in the future; whether listing your home for sale or filing a warranty claim, having documentation on hand is essential.
Paper receipts can get lost over time, so a good practice is to use your phone’s camera to make digital copies of all of your documentation. If you ever have to prove that you’ve kept up with swimming pool maintenance or hired professional repair services, you’ll have a solid backup source of documentation.
Get the Best Protection By Working With the Leading Pool Builder in Panama City
When you partner with Blue Haven Pools on the Gulf, we’ll help you explore warranty options for any swimming pool and guide you through designing a pool with features that guarantee a luxurious experience. Contact us to discuss your dream swimming pool ideas today!