FAQ

Q. How do I begin the process with Atlantis Pools?

A. When you make the initial call to our office we will ask a few questions about the type of pool you are thinking about, what features you are looking for in a pool and how you think you will use it. Then we set up an appointment with you to come look at your site. On this first visit we will be taking measurements, checking utilities, looking at the grade and taking photographs of your yard. It is always best if all parties wanting input on the overall design be present at this first meeting. This ensures we don't come back with something one or the other does not like. At the end of this first meeting, we will set a time for our second meeting to show you our design. Then we will go back to our office and design a plan that will incorporate those features you desire.

Q. What happens next?

A. Our second meeting is normally at our office so we can show you the different options on tiles, equipment, plaster, decking, lighting etc. We will go over all the features, look at the design, and discuss construction timing, access to the yard and what can be expected during the construction.

Q. I see Atlantis Pools has been in business for 42 years? Some of the other pool companies I have looked at state how many years of experience they have. What is the difference?

A. The difference is huge! If we add up the experience of all of our workers and combined them we would have over 300 years of experience! If a pool company is stating it's years of experience on their web site instead of it's years in business. They are doing it because they haven't been in business long enough to show the stability of their company. We find stating years of experience highly misleading. The national statistics show that 30% of new companies fail in the first 3 years, 50% fail in their first 5 years and 66% fail in their first 10 years. So if you want to be sure talk to pool companies that have been "in Business" for at least 10 years.

Q. I noticed Atlantis Pools provides video testimonials on their website. Why is that?

A. We do this to prove our testimonials are not made up. If a company has testimonials that are just typed on their website they may not be 100% factual. It is easy to say whatever you want if it can't be substantiated.

Q. One company we spoke to says they will beat any price? Does Atlantis do this?

A. No. Pool builders who do this often do not know what their actual costs are, let alone what ours are. They would need an entire specification sheet with all materials and equipment we use to even come close. Also we build our pools to a higher standard, when you contract with Atlantis Pools you are getting the best of everything- from construction materials to equipment to warranties. Some of the people that do buy pools from our competitors believe "a pool is a pool". We can assure you that just isn't the case. Swimming pool construction methods and costs vary greatly, and if the price looks too good to be true, it probably is.

Q. Will your company build our pool or does it sub-contract the work to others? Does it matter?

A. We do most of our pool construction ourselves, (see personnel page) as we have the skill, knowledge, employees, trucks, equipment & tools. It is safe to say no other company in Tulsa will do as many phases on your pool using their own employees. We feel it is important to do the work ourselves so we have better control of the quality and timing of construction. Many times contractors who sub out their work try to do too much and end up using whoever is not busy. This can be a problem, as you may end up with the 3rd or 4th subcontractor on their list.

Q. What are the different phases of constructing a swimming pool?

A. Although it varies from job to job, here is a list for a standard pool: Pre-grade/demolition, form pool, excavate pool & haul dirt, install plumbing, install gravel, install rebar for shell, shoot gunite, place tile, install coping, grade for deck, set-up deck, pour deck, set equipment, hook-up electrical and gas to equipment, prep for plaster, plaster pool, fill pool, start up pool and lastly, add chemicals.

Q. What is the difference between a "pool builder" vs. a "pool contractor"?

A. That is probably one of the most important questions we are asked. A pool builder is a company that has employees and equipment that build the projects. A pool contractor is a company that uses sub-contractors to build their projects. They call different sub-contractors for each phase of construction. So you end up with many different construction personnel working in your yard. With a pool builder you see the same construction personnel everyday. It also means that each sub-contractor is a separate entity needing to make a profit on each phase. That can cost you a lot more money in the end.

Q. How does Atlantis Pools & Spas Inc. get most of their work?

A. A large part of our work is through referrals from previous customers and the rest is through yard signs, our website, and people seeing our company trucks.

Q. How large a company is Atlantis Pools & Spas Inc.?

A. Being a large company is not our main focus. We are only looking for a few select projects. Most of our competitors if asked want to build as many pools as possible. We on the other hand want to build between 30 to 35 pools a year. We are always in demand due to our knowledge of specialized pool construction.

Q. What can I expect the investment to be to build an Atlantis Pool?

A. Our pools range from around Eighty-Five thousand for a simple pool, to hundreds of thousands for an elaborate pool with extensive landscaping, water features, stone decks, computer controls, etc.

Q. How many years has Atlantis Pools been in business? Why does it matter?

A. Our company was founded in 1981, making 2023 our 42nd year! Many people don't realize most companies (around 50%) never make it to their 5th anniversary. Since we founded our company we have seen at least 50 Tulsa pool companies go out of business. Unfortunately customers usually find out too late, when the pool builder is in the middle of building their pool! We get calls every year to come finish other pool companies' pools that have went out of business. Please don't let this happen to you.

Q. What about a warranty on my pool investment?

A. Nothing will be more important to you after your pool is complete than a warranty from a company that will take care of any problems that may arise. We have been and will continue to be the best at taking care of our customers warranty problems. Our warranties are the best from the pool structure to the equipment. If you remember only one thing, remember that a warranty is only as good as the company offering it!

Q. Why do I have such a wide variance in my pool bids on similar size pools?

A. The price of a pool includes more than just size and shape. Other factors many contractors do not include account for the difference- such as quality of materials, craftsmanship, warranties, customer service, insurance, and time needed to build. Some of our competitors do not have an office, trucks, equipment, employees, or insurance--which makes it cheaper to operate but also easier for them to vanish. If you can't afford to do it right how will you afford to fix it?

Q. How can I research the different pool builders and pick the best one?

A. The best thing you can do is visit their place of business, see for yourself whether or not they have an office, warehouse, supplies, etc. Go visit a few of their job sites, talk to some of their past customers, and check their rating with the Better Business Bureau.

Q. Every pool builder in town says they are the Premier or Best pool builder in Tulsa! How do I determine the truth?

A. It is quite simple, we are the only pool builder from Tulsa to receive International Awards of Excellence as well as Regional Awards for Design. We were the first builder in Oklahoma to have a Certified Building Professional on staff (first by 10 years), and the only builder that continually sends its staff to Regional and International shows for classes on advanced technical seminars. We are also the only builder in business for 42 years without any lawsuits. And one more important thing is to look at our portfolio vs. our competitors; all pools shown here were built by Atlantis Pools.

Q. I have heard a lot about in-floor cleaning systems, do they work? Does your company install them?

A. In-floor cleaners are the most logical way to build a pool, although the initial pool cost will be higher due to an increase in plumbing pipe and labor cost, it will usually pay for itself (the in-floor system) in three years or less. The cost savings is due to the fact that when your heater comes on, it returns the water from the bottom of the pool instead of the side, therefore being a more efficient way to heat the pool. Another benefit is that the chemicals are dispersed more evenly throughout the pool. This saves on chemicals because the return water comes back through more openings (usually 20+ vs. 3 to 5). Also due to the fact that the pool water turns over more efficiently you run the pool pump less hours per day therefore saving on electricity also.

Q. Do we need to have a plan for our pool?

A. No, we will design a plan to fit your needs, this service is included with the purchase of your pool.

Q. When is the best time to start the process of researching for a pool?

A. We work year round, but typically 3 to 4 months before you want to swim. This time is needed for design, planning and acquiring permits.

Q. Who oversees the project when it is started?

A. Every project is overseen by John Oliver. He is your contact person from start to finish! Many of our competitors have sales people that pass you off to a supervisor that oversees the project. This can sometimes leave important information about the pool build up in the air. With John being involved from start to finish there are no questions about what we build for you versus what you expect!

Q. How do we pay for the pool?

A. We invoice you as work progresses and are paid by a draw schedule that is agreeable to both parties. Our payments vary, and depending on the size of the project it may be as few as 4 payments or as many as 15 payments. Our final payment is always paid at completion.

Q. How can I get started on a design for my outdoor living environment?

A. You can call us at 918-641-1100, email us at designs@bestpoolguys.com , visit our showroom at 9300 E. Broken Arrow Expressway, Suite D, Tulsa, Ok. 74145 or fill out our contact info on our contact page and we will contact you!

Q. When will my pool be completed? Do you guarantee a completion date?

A. Depending on weather conditions, a standard pool takes 8-12 weeks, an elaborate pool can take up to a year or longer. Many of the delays of construction can be accredited to inclement weather. Yes we will guarantee a completion date for your project. We do add time for inclement weather though.

Q. What is the one thing that sets Atlantis apart from all the other pool companies in Tulsa?

A. If we had to sum it up in one work it would be "Integrity". Over our 42 years in business we have always strived to be the best. Have we always suceeded? Well the honest answer is NO. But we have never intentionaly done anything to upset our customers or loose their trust. I would say that out of over 1200 pools built we have less than a 1/4 of One percent of unhappy customers, maybe 5 customers. No one is perfect. If they say they have 100% happy customers keep looking for a pool builder!