HOPbboy

Platinum Pools built our pool and did a good job. The owner does a Saturday morning radio show on KSEV AM 700 from 11am-12noon. You can listen a few times and learn a lot. www.backyardbay.com

Here are my suggestions:

* Talk to knowledgeable people at a pool store. I suggest TexSun pool on the corner of Westheimer and Mason Rd, behind the Panda Express. They are having a free 2 hour "Pool School" next week. If you've never had a pool you should go to learn more about how to take care of your new swimming pool. You can ask lots of questions without feeling like you are imposing on their regular customers.

* Cinco HOA is VERY particular about plans. Allow 6 - 8 weeks to get your plan approved. Don't be surprised if they turn you down the first time and tell you to make changes.

* Think about total ownership costs. Ask about designing an energy efficient pool. A 2-hp pump running 10 hours per day costs you $60 per month in electricity at 13 cents/kWh. There are new variable speed pumps that use much less energy and pay out in just a few months.

* Think about total maintenance time. I spend about 30 minutes a week taking care of my 20,000 gallon pool for normal maintenance. You need multiple skimmers, auto fill/level control.

* Everyone is crazy for saltwater systems, I think they are a waste of time and money. What they don't tell you is that you will be constantly adding both salt and acid to the system, and the chlorine generator cell has to be replaced every 4-5 years. We use 3" multipurpose tabs and have no problems. You need to monitor a salt system weekly to keep the pH in balance. My pool doesn't require as much monitoring once the chemicals are in balance.

* Electric heat pumps are cheaper to operate than gas fired heaters, but are slower to heat up. They aren't particularly popular in Houston, but they are available. A heat pump extends the swimming season by 1-2 months.

Good luck. I think you will really enjoy pool ownership. I had never had one until I moved into Cinco. Now I'm told I'm somewhat of an expert!

Thanks King,

Lots of great info. What makes you think HOA is such a prob?? They had my patio cover approved in 1 week. The builders I have been meeting with have never had a problem(so they say)?? I will also check out TexSun and Platinum.

Thanks!!

We are in a similar situation and are currently evaluating Platinum Pools, Cascade Pools and our contractor's guy (haven't seen him yet). Platinum pools is the only company I found with a decent website (http://www.platinumpools.com/) that has offerings in various price ranges. Our neighbors used Cascade. It is like buying a car ugh.

HOEF,

Thanks for responding. Keep me posted if you can. PM me and we can exchange e-mail. I am in the process of talking to 7 builders. Maybe we can help each other out?

I would like to add a 10X15ft covered patio to my home possibly with stamped concrete a couple of lights and a fan. Has anyone had this done and about how much does it cost? Are there any recommendation to who is a good contractor/company to do this? I have a 2 year old home in cinco ranch. Thanks!!

I used Eyer Custom Patio

I am looking to get a swimming pool. I would like input on builders. I live in Cinco SW. Also, any input (pros/cons) on decking and coping would be nice too. I have 2 small children and would like it for recreational purposes. Also, is it any cheaper to build in the winter? Thanks!

Where exactly were they supposed to be opening? I have never even heard of this company.

They were located where Mely's used to be. USA Health and Fitness off of Broadway. They were opening a 26,000 sq foot facility in front of Sunrise lakes. Right now, the fitness facility by old Mely's says new owner, and the 26,000 square foot place is now the home of chicago title and a blood bank. That's a good idea with the credit card. I guess it's worth a shot. The only problem is, the transaction was made in 8/05.

Anybody know what's happening to USA Health and Fitness' new gym?? I'm afraid I'm out 1 G! I signed our family as one of the first 100 charter members after we saw a sign that said 26000 sq ft gym coming soon. It was supposed to be complete by January of last year. When I called (MLK weekend), they told me it was building codes dragging them down, but there would be a truck on the land Tuesday starting construction. I drove by....sure enough it was true. But now, where the gym supposively was to be built, I see Chicago title and some blood bank. I checked the BBB website, and it looks as though they may have filed bankruptcy. Anybody know anything or have any advice? I still have my contract and receipts. I never even gotten so much as a letter.