Pool Project Planning Resources

Before getting started, it’s important to prepare for the journey you are about to embark on. We hope these resources will help as you begin to plan your project.

Frequently Asked Questions

What You Should Expect to Spend

Understand the potential investment required to bring your outdoor dream to life.

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How to Compare Competing Estimates

When obtaining multiple estimates for a swimming pool project, homeowners often struggle to understa...

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The Value of Design

Understand what to expect from a designer and how the design process should create value for your project.

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Choosing the Perfect Pool Tile

Selecting pool tile is one of the most exciting steps in designing your swimming pool. Not only does the tile contribute to the overall aesthetic of your outdoor oasis, but it also plays a critical role in durability and functionality. With so many options available, this guide will help you navigate the selection process, ensuring your pool tile is both beautiful and practical.

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Choosing Between Linear and Free-Form Pools

When designing a residential swimming pool, one of the first decisions you’ll face is choosing the pool’s shape. While options abound, most pools fall into two main categories: linear and free-form.

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Choosing Between a Fiberglass and Gunite Swimming Pool

Debating between a fiberglass pool or a gunite pool for your backyard? This in-depth guide compares the pros and cons of fiberglass vs. gunite swimming pools and explains how Outdoor Dreams helps homeowners in Central Virginia and beyond make confident, informed decisions through expert design, 3D renderings, and transparent pricing.

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Gunite Swimming Pool Maintenance

Gunite pools are a luxurious and versatile choice, offering endless customization options and unmatched durability. To maximize the lifespan and beauty of your pool, regular maintenance is essential. At Outdoor Dreams, we finish our gunite pools with premium Wet Edge products, ensuring both functionality and aesthetics. Here’s what you need to know about caring for your gunite pool.

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due Diligence Items

Gather These Before You Start

Inspiration photos. Spend some time gathering photos of outdoor projects you like (or dislike). These will help you visually communicate ideas to your designer. Pinterest, Instagram, and Houzz are great places to browse, along with our project gallery.
Property plat. Your plat is the legal drawing of your property that shows your property lines, easements, setbacks, and other property constraints. This information may affect the design of your project and will likely be required for most HOA and building permit applications.
Home Owner Association (HOA) documents. If you have an HOA, review its design guidelines to see how they will impact your project. Make sure you understand how to apply for approval and how long it may take to complete the process.
Architectural drawings. Gather any architectural drawings for your house. This information will help your designer match or complement your home's existing materials and architectural details.

Get Started

No matter where you are in the process, we’d love to talk

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Have more questions?

Check out our Frequently Asked Questions page and ask us any questions of your own!

Frequently Asked Questions