The Basics

Now is the time to make the decision to convert your bland backyard into something extraordinary by adding a pool from Acme Pure Blu. Whether it's an above-ground pool, a fiberglass in-ground pool, a vinyl liner steel wall in-ground or a concrete and plaster pool, a well-built pool will create an entertainment and relaxation paradise in West Michigan. Pools create centers for family fun and great neighborhood parties with friends. You'll be surrounded by laughter while bonding and making forever memories. Pull out the coolers, fire up the grill and enjoy the outdoors from sunrise to sunset. 

When considering what pool is perfect for your lifestyle, we encourage you to consult the pool experts at Acme Pure Blu. Our staff has more than 40 years of experience and will help you determine what fits your needs and your budget. Talk to one of our specialists today with a free, no-obligation discussion. 

Here are our answers to some questions that you may have when thinking about purchasing a pool: 

What types of pools are available? 

• Pop-up above-ground: Often a department or club store purchase with few, if any, amenities and a short life-span of use due to lack of quality materials and no professional guidance. While inexpensive, pools are a get what you pay for experience and these often result in disappointment.
• Traditional above-ground: An affordable way to add water to your backyard and start doing cannonballs! The standard above-ground pools can have site preparation and installation done in relatively short order. Acme Pure Blu can help you determine if aluminum, resin or steel siding is best for your plan. There are a variety of sizes and shapes, but round and oval are the most popular. 
• Fiberglass in-ground: In-ground pools are a valuable commodity and add a pleasant feel to your outdoor environment. A fiberglass pool is installed in one piece and can have depths appropriate for your family's needs. Fiberglass pools typically require less maintenance and fewer chemicals.  
• Vinyl liner steel wall in-ground: These pool set-ups are frequently used in cold-weather areas and the vinyl liner covers the walls with a smooth finish is smooth and nonporous.  
• Concrete and Plaster in-ground: A concrete pool, which is the most common type of in-ground pool, is custom-built and constructed in stages. There is pool layout and excavation phase and initial installation of plumbing and steel. That is followed by the material installation, tile placement and an interior finish. They can take longer than fiberglass or vinyl installations, but are worthwhile with an incredible place to play. 

How long does it take to install or build a pool? 

• Pop-up pools take a couple of hours to set up and fill after purchasing it. Again, there is risk present with the quality of the pool and the longevity. 
• Above-ground pools can be bought and installed in a matter of weeks. Proper planning is necessary and Acme Pure Blue experts will guide the process.
• In-ground pool installation, after design and permitting is completed, can range from a week to a couple of months. All of this depends on weather and soil conditions, availability of contractors and the time of year. It's best to start early, sometimes up to a year in advance to achieve the pool paradise you desire. The work can start once the weather breaks. Acme Pure Blu works as quickly as possible to get you the most time in the sun. 

How much do pools cost?  

• A pop-up pool can be bought for around $500 from club or big box stores. 
• Traditional above-ground pools range from $1,000 - $10,000 and there are also expenses for excavation, installation, decking, and initial water filling. 
• In-ground pools start at around $20,000 and go up depending on numerous variables such as excavation, size, customization, features, equipment and decking. 

Is financing available? We have a wide array of financing options, and Acme Pure Blu supports fall and holiday layaway and price locks. 

How long do pools last?  

This depends a lot on the type of pool you purchase and how well you maintain it.  The adage “you get what you pay for” generally rings true though when it comes to pools.  A pop-up pool may only last for a few summers. A well-maintained in-ground pool can last decades, if not generations, with proper care. A better pool positions you for years of fun in the sun. 

What pool safety features are available? 

There is no substitute for proper supervision of swimmers by responsible adults. Beyond proper adult supervision, there are steps that can be taken to enhance the safety of a pool, especially when it is not being used, or not supposed to be in use. Acme Pure Blu experts can help you think through the safety issues and recommend the best solutions for your concerns and situation. Often that means fencing, auto and/or safety covers, safety ropes and equipment like life rings, hooks, lifelines and life vests.  

What type of features and options are available?  

From sun shelves, water jets and lighting, there are any number of choices you can make to fit your lifestyle and use of your new pool. In our opinion, some of the most valuable are the ones that help you with your pool's upkeep, such as automation that helps optimized water filtration and energy efficiency. There are also floor cleaning systems and robotic cleaners that reduce the time investment. Talk with our Acme Pure Blu experts to sort through what is best for you.

What type of regular maintenance is required?  

The simple truth is that pools require regular maintenance and care, especially during the swimming season. It is not, however, as hard as it used to be as great strides have been made to ease the workload through expert service and automation. 

In general, basic care for Michigan pools includes opening the pool in the spring and closing the pool in the fall. There is weekly vacuuming, cleaning the water line, water balancing and filter media cleaning. Skimming the water for debris before each swim and balancing the water after a heavy bather load are usually required. A quality pool retailer, such as Acme Pure Blu, will provide free computerized water analysis to identify issues and a full set of products and solutions to simplify the task of addressing them.