Find the Best Pool Companies in Omaha, NE

Swimming pool design and installation in Omaha

Pools come in many sizes, shapes and varieties, which can make choosing one difficult. The first decision is whether you want an above ground or inground pool.

Above ground swimming pools are the most affordable option. They come in a kit and can be installed quickly by professionals, or you can opt for DIY installation. These pools are usually 48 to 52 inches deep, so they’re not safe for diving. You can add heaters to extend your swimming season, and many homeowners add decking or railing. An above ground pool does not increase your property value, but it is portable.

An inground swimming pool adds value to your home by enhancing your landscaping and providing a place for entertaining. It’s also a rare amenity in the Omaha housing market. Most neighborhoods with pools are located in West Omaha, specifically in suburbs like Elkhorn with large backyards. Boys Town and Dundee/Fairacres are also ideal neighborhoods for inground pools.

An inground pool is a significant investment. The average inground pool cost in Omaha is $48,000. When you have an inground pool, you can add features like waterfalls, slides and diving boards. The table below discussions the differences between above ground pools and inground pools.

Inground pools vs. above ground pools in Omaha

Most inground backyard pools in Omaha are made of vinyl, fiberglass or concrete, with concrete being the most popular.

• Vinyl swimming pools are the most affordable option of the three. These pools are easy to install and can usually be ready for use within a week. Vinyl pools come in a variety of patterns and colors but do not offer many options for the shape of the pool. The vinyl liner needs to be replaced every six to 12 years.
• Fiberglass swimming pools are more expensive but offer excellent durability. Fiberglass pools are pre-built by the manufacturer and aren’t easily customized, plus they have a maximum width of 16 feet. Fiberglass requires the least amount of maintenance, so you can spend more time in your pool and less time cleaning it. Because they’re pre-built, they can often be installed in less than a week.
• A concrete swimming pool is the Cadillac of pools. These pools are completely customizable, durable and aesthetically pleasing but are also the most expensive. Concrete pools are a great option if you want to incorporate your pool into an extensive landscaping design. They take several weeks to install and require the most maintenance.

Maintaining a swimming pool in Omaha

Your swimming pool requires regular maintenance for safe swimming and summer fun. Some pool supplies you need include:

• Pool filter
• Net skimmer
• Pool brush
• Pool vacuum
• Water testing kit
• Balancing chemicals

For starters, you need a pool filter to clear dirt and contaminants in the water. At a minimum, you should skim, brush and vacuum your pool weekly to clean the walls and keep debris out of the water. This can be done manually or by an automatic pool cleaner.

Chlorine is used to sanitize pool water, but it’s essential to know the pH balance of your water before adding chemicals. A water testing kit tells you the pH level, alkalinity and sanitizer levels of your pool water. To balance the water’s pH level, it should be between 7.4 to 7.6. The ideal range for alkalinity is 100 to 150 parts per million (ppm).

When you add chemicals to balance and sanitize your pool, follow the directions and research what each chemical does. Visit the Centers for Disease Control’s website for more information on testing and sanitizing.

Winterizing your pool is a must for Omaha residents. For inground pools, that means:

• Adding winterization chemicals
• Clearing the plumbing
• Draining the filter
• Draining equipment
• Covering the pool

Many pool builders in Omaha also provide services to maintain and winterize pools. If the company you choose doesn’t offer ongoing service, the employees may be able to recommend a company that does.

Choosing a swimming pool builder in Omaha

When hiring a pool contractor in Omaha, make sure they have an employee screening process. You should also make sure the company is licensed and registered with the Nebraska Department of Labor. To verify a company’s license, look it up on the department’s website.

When you’re ready to choose a swimming pool builder in Omaha, here are some questions you should ask during the selection process:

• How much experience do you have building pools?
• Do you belong to any professional organizations?
• What products and materials do you use?
• Do you offer a warranty?
• What are your installation practices?
• What is the price to build the pool?
• Can I see a sample contract?
• Can I have references for your previous work?

The City of Omaha requires permits before installing above ground and inground pools. To read up on residential pool requirements, visit the Douglas County Health Department website. You can find more information on permit costs here. Above ground pools permit applications are located here, and inground pool permit applications are here. Your chosen pool builder should help with any permit requirements.

Before you dive into your new pool, review the Consumer Product Safety Commission’s guides on safety barriers and pool safety.