Pool Builder vs. Patio Builder: What You Need to Know for Your Fort Worth and Arlington, TX Backyard Makeover
Transforming your backyard into a luxurious retreat is an exciting journey, especially in Fort Worth and Arlington, TX, where outdoor living is a lifestyle. Whether you’re looking to add a stunning inground pool or create a beautiful paver patio for entertaining, selecting the right pool builder and patio builder is crucial. Our team of professionals will ensure your outdoor space reflects your wishes while considering local climate and material needs. We are the perfect experts to make your backyard makeover a reality, let's dive into what you need to know.
Related: Why Water Features Are Essential in Your Pool Remodeling Project in Southlake and Keller, TX
Pool Builder vs. Patio Builder: Key Differences You Should Know
When considering a backyard makeover, understanding the key differences between a pool builder and a patio builder is essential to making the right decision for your space.
1. Focus of Work
A pool builder specializes in the construction of swimming pools. Their job focuses on excavation, plumbing, and water features. Whether you’re looking for a classic rectangular pool or a freeform oasis, pool builders have the expertise to design and install these structures.
A patio builder, on the other hand, focuses on outdoor living spaces. Their work involves hardscaping elements like paver patios, stonework, fire pits, and outdoor kitchens. Patio builders ensure that your outdoor space complements your home, offering both function and beauty for entertaining or relaxation.
2. Materials Used
Pool builders work with materials like gunite, fiberglass, and vinyl, as well as various pool equipment (filters, heaters, etc.). They deal with the water elements and related systems to ensure the pool is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
Patio builders specialize in materials like natural stone, pavers, concrete, or brick. They are experts in laying the foundation for outdoor spaces where you can entertain, dine, or relax, and their designs typically require materials that complement the overall outdoor landscape.
3. Services Offered
Pool builders provide more than just pool construction; they often handle pool deck construction, water feature integration, and pool maintenance (e.g., pool cleaning, equipment checks, and winterization).
Patio builders focus on creating well-designed outdoor living spaces. Beyond patios, they may also offer features such as retaining walls, built-in seating, pergolas, or fire features. They aim to craft areas that integrate seamlessly with your backyard and lifestyle.
4. Expertise
Pool builders are experts in the technical side of construction. They understand the complexities of plumbing, electrical work, and ensuring the pool’s water system operates efficiently.
Patio builders have expertise in landscaping and design. They create spaces that complement your home and garden, focusing on layout, functionality, and visual appeal.
5. Project Duration
Pools generally take longer to build due to the complex systems and detailed construction required. Expect anywhere from 6 to 12 weeks for an inground pool.
Patios, depending on size and complexity, can typically be completed much faster, often within a few days to a couple of weeks.
6. Maintenance
Pool builders often offer ongoing maintenance services for pools, ensuring they remain in working condition throughout the year.
Patio builders may offer maintenance on specific hardscaping features but typically focus on the design and installation phase.
Understanding these differences will help you choose the right professional for your needs, whether you're looking for a pool to cool off and relax or a patio to enhance your outdoor lifestyle.
Can a Pool Builder Create My Patio?
While pool builders specialize in designing and constructing swimming pools, many of them also offer patio design and construction services. The best option is to have a pool builder who specializes in poolscape makeovers. Hillman Outdoor Living does just that, and we can create the entire project for you.
Our team of experts will focus on the aesthetic and functional aspects of your patio, ensuring that the design seamlessly integrates with your pool, landscaping, and the unique features of your backyard. Whether you're looking for a luxurious, functional space or a creative design, we bring a deeper understanding of materials, layout, and long-term design that truly enhances your outdoor experience.
What is the Best Shape for a Patio?
When it comes to designing your paver patio, the shape plays a critical role in both its functionality and aesthetic appeal. In Fort Worth and Arlington, where outdoor living is central to the lifestyle, the right patio shape ensures your space flows seamlessly with your home and other backyard features.
A rectangular or square patio tends to offer the most versatility. These shapes work well against the backdrop of a traditional or modern home and provide plenty of space for seating arrangements, outdoor dining areas, or even outdoor kitchens. Their symmetrical design makes it easier to organize furniture and accessories.
For those who want a softer, more organic feel, circular or curved patios are a beautiful option. These shapes are ideal for homeowners who want to integrate their patio into natural landscaping elements or pair it with a pool. A curved design adds an element of sophistication and creates a space that feels less formal and more welcoming.
Irregular or freeform patios are also gaining popularity, especially among those with a larger backyard or a specific idea for their outdoor space. These patios can be designed to mimic the natural flow of the land, curving around trees, blossom beds, or fountains.
Our team of skilled patio builders will help you evaluate your space and choose a shape that complements your home and lifestyle, ensuring that the patio is as functional as it is beautiful.
How Close to the House Should a Patio Be?
In Fort Worth and Arlington, the proximity of your patio to your house is crucial for both comfort and convenience. Ideally, your patio should feel like an extension of your home, offering easy access to indoor spaces, especially when entertaining guests outdoors. However, it should also be placed far enough away from the house to avoid moisture or damage to the foundation.
When designing your patio, our team of experts will consider the sun's path throughout the day. A patio placed near windows or doors can provide additional shade when needed, but it’s important to avoid placing it directly in the path of the intense afternoon sun, which could make the space uncomfortable during the hotter months.
Also, we will factor in the prevailing winds and your backyard’s overall layout. Our patio builders will help you find the perfect spot that maximizes both comfort and aesthetic appeal.
Related: Inground Pool and Fire Pit Designs for a Luxurious Backyard in Fort Worth, TX and Benbrook, TX
What is the Life Expectancy of a Patio?
Patios are long-term additions to your home’s outdoor space, and with the right materials and construction, they can last for decades. Durability is a key consideration in the Fort Worth and Arlington areas, where weather conditions can vary.
The life expectancy of your patio depends on the materials used. For example, paver patios offer exceptional longevity, typically lasting 20-30 years if installed correctly by experts. They are highly durable, and if an individual paver gets damaged, it can be replaced easily by a professional without affecting the overall integrity of the patio.
Flagstone patios are another popular choice for homeowners who desire a more natural look. These patios can last upwards of 30 years or more, offering both durability and elegance. Flagstone naturally weathers over time, developing a unique and timeless appeal.
Our team of skilled patio builders will ensure proper drainage and use weather-resistant materials to ensure it withstands the harsh Texas climate.
How Long Before You Can Walk on a Newly Laid Patio?
After we install your patio, you’re likely eager to enjoy it. However, to avoid damage, it's important to understand the curing times for different materials.
You can typically walk on paver patios immediately after installation as the interlocking stones settle into place quickly. However, it’s recommended that you allow a few days for the materials to settle and ensure the patio's durability.
If you’ve chosen flagstone or natural stone, you’ll generally be able to walk on it right away. However, the stones need a bit more time to fully settle, especially if they were laid with sand and gravel. A few days of settling time is ideal.
Our team will offer detailed instructions on when your new patio will be fully ready for use.
What is the Best Orientation for a Patio?
The orientation of your patio can significantly affect how much enjoyment you get from it. In Fort Worth and Arlington, where the sun can be intense during the summer months, it’s essential to think about how the sun moves across your backyard and how that affects your patio’s comfort.
Ideally, you want your patio to receive sunlight during the cooler parts of the day—early morning or late afternoon—while staying shaded during the peak heat of midday. A patio that faces east or west can capture the sun’s warmth during cooler months, but placing it under trees, awnings, or pergolas can provide much-needed shade during the summer.
A patio facing south can provide optimal sunlight throughout the day but may require extra shade to keep it comfortable. Our experienced team of patio builders can help you decide how to position your patio to maximize sun exposure without making it unbearable in the heat.
How Long Does It Take a Pool Company to Build a Pool?
If you're constructing an inground pool alongside your patio, you might be wondering how long it takes to complete the project. For inground pools in Fort Worth and Arlington, TX, the construction timeline typically spans 6 to 12 weeks, depending on the type of pool you choose and any potential weather delays.
If you decide on a gunite pool, which is a highly durable option for the Texas heat, you can expect the process to take a bit longer due to its intricate construction process. Gunite pools are built using a concrete mixture sprayed over a steel frame and require time for curing and finishing touches.
Gunite pools offer ultimate flexibility in design, allowing you to choose a custom shape that fits your backyard. They are highly durable, making them an excellent choice for homeowners looking for a pool that will last for many years.
While the timeline may vary based on factors like pool design and weather conditions, our team of professional pool builders will give you a clear, realistic estimate and communicate any potential delays upfront.
What is the Lifespan of an Inground Pool?
The lifespan of an inground pool depends largely on the type of pool and the materials used. For gunite pools, you’re looking at an impressive lifespan of 50 years or more when properly constructed. Unlike other pool types, gunite pools are incredibly durable, and with the right care, they can handle the Texas climate and last for generations.
Vinyl-lined pools typically last 20-30 years, but the liner will need to be replaced every 7-15 years. Fiberglass pools, though quicker to install, have a lifespan of 25-30 years.
What is the Best Shape for an Inground Pool?
The shape of your inground pool plays a significant role in how it complements your backyard space. For gunite pools, you have the flexibility to choose almost any shape you desire, from sleek rectangular pools to organic, freeform designs.
If you prefer a more traditional look, rectangular pools offer clean lines and a formal appearance. These pools are perfect for swimming laps or creating a sophisticated focal point in your yard.
For a more natural, flowing look, freeform pools with curved edges and irregular shapes can create a resort-like atmosphere in your backyard. These pools blend beautifully with natural landscaping and are ideal for larger backyards where you can incorporate elements like waterfalls, boulders, and lush plantings.
Additionally, kidney-shaped or oval pools offer a balance between traditional and freeform designs, making them an excellent choice for many different types of backyards.
Our pool builders are experienced in gunite pools and will guide you through the process of selecting the ideal shape for your space, ensuring your pool meets both functional needs and aesthetic goals.
What is the Best Color for an Inground Pool?
Choosing the color of your inground pool is more than just about appearance—it’s about the overall experience. The color of your pool will affect the look and feel of the water, as well as its temperature, which can be especially important in Fort Worth and Arlington’s hot summers.
Lighter-colored pools, such as light blue or white, reflect sunlight and help keep the water cool. These pools provide a refreshing oasis on hot days and create a tropical vibe that’s perfect for relaxation.
On the other hand, darker-colored pools, like dark blue or black, absorb more sunlight and heat, which means the water stays warmer even in cooler weather. These colors also give the pool a deeper, more luxurious look that can make your backyard feel like a high-end resort.
Our team of professional pool builders can help you choose the perfect color that complements your home’s aesthetic, enhances your backyard’s design, and keeps the water comfortable year-round.
By partnering with our expert pool builders and patio builders in Fort Worth or Arlington, you’ll ensure your backyard transformation is not only stunning but also built to last. Whether you’re crafting a luxurious pool area or designing the perfect patio for entertaining your dream outdoor space is just a few expert decisions away.
The Importance of Working With Local Experts
When it comes to designing your dream backyard in Fort Worth or Arlington, it’s essential to work with our team of professionals who know the local climate and landscape. We understand how the Texas weather impacts construction timelines, materials, and long-term durability. For example, the intense summer heat and occasional heavy rainfall in the area can affect everything from material selection to the timing of your project.
By working with us, you ensure that your outdoor space is not only stylish but also functional and built to withstand the local elements. We also have strong relationships with local suppliers and understand the area's zoning laws and permits, helping you avoid unnecessary delays.
Creating a Seamless Transition Between Pool and Patio
A key factor in designing an exceptional backyard in Fort Worth or Arlington is ensuring that your pool and patio blend together seamlessly. Whether you're opting for a sleek modern pool or a more organic, freeform design, the transition from pool to patio should feel effortless and cohesive.
Our pool and patio builders team work together to help create a unified outdoor space that feels like one continuous area. The layout, materials, and finishes should flow together to enhance the overall design of your backyard. For instance, using complementary pavers or a similar color palette for both the pool surround and patio area helps tie everything together, making the transition between spaces feel natural and inviting.
Customizing Your Outdoor Space to Reflect Your Lifestyle
Your backyard is an extension of your home, and it should reflect your unique style and needs. Whether you plan to host lavish outdoor dinner parties, enjoy quiet family evenings, or relax by the pool with a good book, your inground pool and patio areas should support these activities.
Our experienced pool and patio builders will work with you to understand your lifestyle and recommend designs that meet your specific needs. For example, they can incorporate built-in seating, fire pits, or custom outdoor kitchens into your patio area, while the pool can be tailored to include water features, lighting, or spa elements. Customization ensures that your outdoor space is not only beautiful but also a functional retreat that fits your everyday life.
About the Author
Michael Hillman started Hillman Outdoor Living as a high schooler over two decades ago. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to mow lawns for extra cash, which he did throughout college.
After college graduation, Hillman transitioned his business into a commercial property management company and pivoted again when he began offering primarily landscape design and build services. Today, Hillman operates with a team of dedicated and talented professionals providing exceptional service.
