Games and rail goods
When it comes to accessories such as games and rail goods, many pool owners are unfamiliar with what may be available to them—especially if their pool is already built.
For example, many builders have experienced increased profits by offering built-in gaming products such as basketball and volleyball equipment. The in-deck games are more attractive than typical plastic versions on the market and installing the deck anchors is easy.
“The basketball hoop is a prime example of the importance in offering a wide range of accessories,” says Rowland. “Most people think the plastic sets they find at big box outlets are their only option. However, when I show my customers there is a high-end basketball hoop available, which installs directly into the pool deck, they are happy to know this option exists.
“These products are also a great profit centre for renovation projects,” Rowland adds. “It takes no more than an hour to install a unit that sells for approximately $900 to $1,000, which translates into a profit of about $350 per unit.”
Rail goods are also often overlooked, even after rust has formed making the entire pool area look terrible.
“Installing new rails, sometimes even powder-coated rails, can greatly improve the pool’s appearance,” says All Seasons Pools, Dan Lenz. “Replacing rails takes less than an hour each, with a profit margin of approximately $200 per rail. Similarly, it may take about an hour to install a new ladder, with profits of approximately $300 to $400 each.”
Upgrading technology
Technology also plays a key role in swimming pool renovation projects and continues to be a major profit centre for builders. High-tech accessories and equipment such as variable-speed pumps and automation devices are constantly being updated to operate more efficiently. Whether part of a renovation project or not, even a pool installed five years ago can benefit from a technological overhaul.
“Variable-speed drives are a big part of our renovation business—especially for our older clients who are trying to lower or control their monthly operating expenses,” says Clark. “A variable-speed drive can reduce electric bills for consumers by approximately 70 per cent.”
Many builders have also found high profits in automatic control systems, as homeowners love the digital/gadget experience.
“Our goal is not only to make our clients’ pools prettier but also more functional,” says Bullard. “Remote control devices are huge. They are probably our number one renovation update, followed immediately by light-emitting diode (LED) lighting—both in and around the pool area.”
Lenz agrees and says his company has also seen increased profits in combining lights and automation products on renovation projects.
“Pool and landscape lighting integrates into the control system and becomes an easy sell,” he says. “If the renovation project runs $60,000 to $70,000, then it’s usually pretty easy to up sell an automation system for another $3,000.”
