Landscapers and Pools

by Rashmi
(Plainsboro, New Jersey)

We are looking to build a patio and pool in our backyard and are just starting to ask landscapers/pool builders to give us quotes.


One of them says he can build the pool, patio, walkway and do all the plantings. Is that a good idea?

What do you think?

Comments for Landscapers and Pools

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Jun 21, 2008
 Pools and Landscapers
by: Susan

Hi Rashmi,
To give you my honest opinion, it's probably not a good idea.

I can understand a landscape contractor offering services for installing hardscape, such as a patio, along with plantings. However, pool installations are another area of expertise completely. That's why there are specific pool companies doing what they do.

A project such as the one you are considering can be quite complex and many things go into it to have a great project. There is the expertise of laying hardscape, knowledge about plants, grading, drainage, pool engineering, and so on.

I would recommend the following:

Contact some qualified landscape designers or landscape architects. Interview them and select one of them to do a design for you. You will have to pay for the design, but when you think about how much that will cost in relationship to what you will be spending on the project, the cost becomes less important.

The designer/architect will be working only for you. He/she will not be trying to sell you anything or design something so that it is easier to install.

Once you have the completed drawing, I would then contact landscape contractors AND pool contractors. They should be separate companies, but be able to work well together. You might consider hiring the landscape designer/architect for project management also, where they will help coordinate the project and make sure it all goes according to plan.

Good luck!
Susan

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