7 Pool Design Decisions North Texas Homeowners Regret (And How to Avoid Them)
After 40+ years building custom pools in North Texas and Southern Oklahoma, Allison Landscape & Pool Company has witnessed countless homeowners discover pool features they wish they'd added or design decisions they'd like to reverse. These regrets surface months or years after construction, when modifications become exponentially more expensive than including them during the original build.
As Master Pools Guild members since 2004, we've compiled insights from hundreds of completed projects across Sherman, Denison, and the Lake Texoma region. The patterns are clear: certain design decisions consistently lead to homeowner satisfaction, while others produce lasting regret.
Understanding these common mistakes before breaking ground protects your investment and ensures your pool delivers the lifestyle enhancement you're envisioning. Here are the seven design decisions North Texas homeowners most frequently regret, and the solutions that prevent them.
Regret #1: Inadequate Deck Space Around the Pool
The most common complaint swimming pool builders in Texas hear from existing pool owners centers on insufficient deck space surrounding the water. Homeowners consistently underestimate the room they need for lounging, dining, and moving around the pool.
The Problem
Pool contractors in Texas often focus solely on the pool shell dimensions, treating surrounding deck space as an afterthought. A typical mistake: budgeting for minimal decking, then discovering the pool feels cramped and uninviting.
Standard industry practice suggests 300 square feet of deck space as adequate for most pools. This provides a narrow walkway around three sides of the pool, enough room for basic access but little more. In reality, North Texas pool builders with decades of experience recommend 500-800 square feet for pools serving families who plan to entertain guests.
Consider what actually happens around your pool. You need space for:
Lounge chairs: Each chaise lounge requires approximately 30 square feet, including clearance space for reclining and walking around it. A family with four lounge chairs needs 120 square feet dedicated to seating alone.
Dining areas: An outdoor dining table for six people requires 80-100 square feet. Adding a grill station or outdoor kitchen adds another 60-100 square feet.
Traffic flow: Comfortable walkways around furniture and between the pool edge and any structures require 4-5 feet of clearance, not the 2-3 feet many builders provide.
Pool entry zones: The areas where swimmers enter and exit concentrate traffic. These zones need extra width to prevent congestion, particularly at steps and shallow entries.
The Solution
Allison Pools approaches deck space as an integrated outdoor living design, not an afterthought. During the initial consultation, we map how you'll actually use the space. Do you host pool parties for extended family? Do you need dining areas for outdoor meals? Will you add an outdoor kitchen later?
We create 3D renderings showing furniture placement at scale. Seeing actual lounge chairs, tables, and umbrellas positioned on the deck reveals space constraints that floor plans obscure. This visualization process prevents the "it looked bigger on paper" disappointment that plagues homeowners who skip this step.
North Texas landscaping must also account for the region's intense summer sun. Adequate deck space allows for shade structures, pergolas, or covered seating areas positioned away from the pool edge, protecting both furniture and people from 100°F+ heat.
For pools in Sherman, TX, and similarly sized residential lots, we typically recommend allocating 60-70% of the total project budget to the pool itself and 30-40% to surrounding deck space and outdoor living features. This ratio ensures balanced, functional outdoor environments that homeowners enjoy for decades.
Regret #2: Skipping the Spa Integration
Adding a spa after pool construction costs 3-4 times more than integrating it during the original build. Yet homeowners frequently eliminate spas from initial plans to meet budget targets, a decision they consistently regret within the first year.
The Problem
Pool contractors in Texas present spas as luxury upgrades rather than functional necessities. Homeowners view them as optional indulgences they can add later. The reality: integrated spas provide year-round usability that dramatically increases pool enjoyment, particularly in North Texas's climate.
Sherman and Denison experience genuine winter weather with occasional freezing temperatures. Pool usage drops dramatically from November through March without a heated spa option. Homeowners discover their expensive pool sits unused for 5-6 months annually, and investing feels wasteful.
Beyond seasonal considerations, spas offer therapeutic benefits that enhance daily life. Hydrotherapy jets provide muscle recovery after workouts, stress relief after long days, and a gathering space distinct from the main pool. Families with teenagers find spas become the preferred hangout spot, justifying the investment through actual usage.
The Solution
Allison Landscape & Pool Company designs integrated spas that enhance both functionality and aesthetics. Rather than appearing as afterthoughts, our spas flow naturally from pool design, creating cohesive water features that elevate the entire outdoor space.
Spillover spa designs, where water cascades from the elevated spa into the pool, provide the soothing water sounds that transform backyards into resort environments. This configuration requires coordinated plumbing and structural engineering during initial construction. Adding it later means jackhammering existing concrete, relocating equipment, and modifying pool shells, costs that quickly reach $40,000-60,000 versus $15,000-25,000 when built originally.
For North Texas swimming pool builders committed to year-round usability, spa integration is essential. Even modest-sized spas (6x6 feet) accommodate 4-6 adults and extend pool season by months. The ROI becomes evident when homeowners use their outdoor space consistently rather than abandoning it for half the year.
Energy-efficient heating systems make spa operation affordable. Modern heat pumps and gas heaters maintain spa temperatures for $80-150 monthly, even during winter, far less than homeowners assume. Variable-speed pumps reduce circulation costs, making spa ownership practical for budget-conscious families.
Regret #3: Choosing the Wrong Pool Depth Configuration
Depth configuration ranks among the most difficult aspects to modify post-construction. Yet pool companies in Texas still default to outdated deep-end designs that serve virtually no one's actual needs.
The Problem
Traditional pool design specified 8-foot deep ends to accommodate diving boards. This convention persisted for decades despite changing usage patterns. Modern families rarely dive, making extreme depth unnecessary and even problematic.
Deep pools create multiple disadvantages:
Safety concerns: Young children and less confident swimmers find deep water intimidating. Families with kids age 3-10 discover that 8-foot depths limit where children can safely play, concentrating activity in a small shallow zone.
Higher costs: Every additional foot of depth adds expense for excavation, shotcrete, water volume, heating, and chemical treatment. An 8-foot deep end requires 25-30% more water than a 5-foot configuration, increasing fill costs and ongoing heating expenses.
Limited usability: Adults standing in 8-foot water cannot interact with children or socialize comfortably. Most pool activities, from water volleyball to floating, work better in 4-5 foot depths.
Reduced lounging areas: Tanning ledges, beach entries, and built-in seating occupy shallow spaces. Deep-end designs reduce the square footage available for these popular features.
The Solution
Allison Pools designs depth configurations matching actual usage patterns rather than following outdated conventions. Our approach prioritizes versatility:
Sports pool configuration: Shallow water on both ends (3.5-4 feet) with a gradual slope to 5-6 feet center depth. This layout accommodates volleyball, basketball hoops, and active play while allowing adults to stand comfortably throughout most of the pool.
Extended tanning ledges: These 6-12 inch deep platforms let swimmers lounge in water while staying cool. They're wildly popular with all age groups and provide the "resort experience" homeowners desire. Proper sizing requires 8-10 feet of length and 6-8 feet of width to accommodate lounge chairs or multiple people.
Built-in bench seating: Running benches along pool walls at 18-inch depth create social gathering spots where people can sit partially submerged, stay cool, and converse without treading water.
For pools in Denison, TX, serving families with children, we typically recommenda 4-foot maximum depth with extensive shallow features. As children age, this configuration continues serving well because teenagers and adults actually prefer moderate depths for socializing and playing.
The cost savings from shallower pools can fund premium features like upgraded tile finishes, better lighting systems, or automation technology. These additions enhance daily enjoyment far more than unusable deep water. You can explore examples of our depth configurations in our project portfolio.
Regret #4: Undersizing the Pool for Future Needs
Swimming pool builders in Texas encounter this regret constantly: homeowners wish they'd built larger pools. The "build bigger" advice saturates online forums for good reason. While appropriate sizing depends on individual circumstances, undersized pools consistently disappoint.
The Problem
Budget constraints tempt homeowners to minimize pool dimensions. A 14x28-foot pool costs $15,000-20,000 less than an 18x36-foot pool. This difference feels significant during planning, but becomes irrelevant once families discover their pool feels cramped.
Children grow. Families expand. Social circles change. The 12-year-old twins, who are perfectly content with a small pool, become teenagers wanting to host friends for pool parties. Suddenly, six swimmers make the water feel crowded and limit activities.
Pool contractors in Texas also see neighborhood effects. When your neighbors have larger pools, yours feels inadequate by comparison. Property values in North Texas subdivisions often reflect pool sizing, with larger pools commanding premium pricing.
The Solution
Allison Landscape & Pool Company guides clients through realistic usage projections. Rather than designing for current family composition, we account for 5-10 year lifestyle changes. Questions we explore:
How many guests typically attend your gatherings? A pool comfortable for 6 swimmers becomes cramped with 10-12 people during parties.
What activities matter most? Swimming laps requires different dimensions than playing water volleyball or lounging on floats.
How long will you own this home? If this is your forever home, size the pool for adult children and grandchildren visiting. If you plan to sell within 5-7 years, consider what features buyers in your neighborhood expect.
For typical North Texas pool builders serving families in 2,500-4,000 square foot homes, the sweet spot falls between 16x32 and 20x40 feet. This range accommodates active use by 8-12 swimmers, provides room for various activities simultaneously, and matches buyer expectations for executive homes.
The investment difference between modest and generous sizing often seems larger than reality. That $20,000 gap that prevents you from building bigger spreads across 15-20 years of ownership. Is $1,000 annually worth avoiding the "wish we'd gone bigger" regret?
For Lake Texoma properties or larger estate lots, size constraints typically involve budget rather than space. Here, we help prioritize spending. Perhaps simpler decking materials or deferred landscaping allows the right-sized pool now, with outdoor kitchen additions coming later.
Regret #5: Neglecting Adequate Lighting
Lighting receives insufficient attention during design, yet dramatically impacts pool usability and safety. Homeowners who economized on lighting universally wish they'd allocated more budget to this essential feature.
The Problem
Standard builder packages include minimal lighting: perhaps one LED fixture in the deep end. This creates illumination sufficient for basic safety but fails to deliver the ambiance and visibility that make evening swimming enjoyable.
North Texas pool owners use their pools primarily during evening hours once summer temperatures moderate. Daytime highs above 95°F make afternoon swimming uncomfortable. Families gather poolside from 7-10 PM when adequate lighting becomes critical.
Insufficient lighting creates multiple problems:
Safety hazards: Steps, depth changes, and pool edges need clear visibility to prevent accidents. Shadows and dark zones increase injury risk.
Limited ambiance: Pools become uninviting black holes after sunset rather than glowing focal points that draw people outdoors.
Reduced usability: Insufficient light prevents evening swimming, eliminating peak usage hours.
Security concerns: Dark pools and surrounding areas create opportunities for accidents and reduce property security.
The Solution
Allison Pools treats lighting as an integrated design element rather than an afterthought. Our lighting strategies include:
Multiple in-pool fixtures: We specify 2-4 LED lights depending on pool size, positioning them to eliminate shadows and create even illumination. Color-changing LEDs add versatility for different moods and occasions.
Perimeter lighting: Low-voltage LED fixtures along deck edges, steps, and pathways ensure safe navigation around the pool area. These create the "resort lighting" effect that makes outdoor spaces feel professionally designed.
Landscape accent lighting: Uplighting trees, highlighting water features, and illuminating architectural elements extends visual interest beyond the pool itself.
Deck and seating area lighting: String lights, post cap lights, or integrated deck lighting ensure outdoor dining and lounging areas remain functional after dark.
For pools in Sherman, TX and surrounding areas, we recommend allocating $8,000-15,000 for comprehensive lighting systems. This investment transforms pool areas from basic functionality to genuine outdoor living rooms that families use consistently.
Automation integration allows controlling all lighting from smartphone apps or wall-mounted panels. Creating lighting scenes for different occasions (family swim, party mode, romantic evening) takes seconds and dramatically enhances the outdoor experience. Learn more about our outdoor living design approach.
Regret #6: Choosing Premium Aesthetics Over Functional Features
Homeowners seduced by stunning tile work and decorative finishes sometimes sacrifice functional features that would enhance daily enjoyment. This misplaced priority becomes apparent within months.
The Problem
Pool companies in Texas showcase dramatic tile installations, exotic stone work, and artistic finishes in their portfolios. These beautiful elements capture attention during the planning process, overshadowing less photogenic but highly functional features.
The budget conflict arises when homeowners must choose between aesthetic upgrades and practical additions. Should you spend $8,000 on upgraded glass tile in the spa or add a tanning ledge for the same cost? Should that $12,000 go toward custom mosaic work or toward integrating an automated cover system?
Many homeowners choose visual appeal, then discover they'd trade decorative elements for missing functionality. The custom tile looks beautiful, but the pool gets minimal use because managing it without automation is tedious. The expensive stone work impresses visitors, but the lack of built-in seating means everyone just treads water rather than relaxing.
The Solution
Allison Landscape & Pool Company advocates the 70/30 rule: allocate 70% of the budget to functional features and 30% to aesthetic upgrades. This ensures your pool works well first, then looks spectacular.
Essential functional features we prioritize:
Automation systems: Controlling temperature, filtration cycles, lighting, and chemical feeders from smartphone apps dramatically improves pool ownership experience. This $3,000-6,000 investment pays dividends through simplified maintenance and energy savings.
Variable-speed pumps: Required by Texas regulations, these pumps reduce energy costs 50-75% compared to single-speed models. The $1,500-2,000 cost premium pays back within 2-3 years through lower electric bills.
Quality filtration: Proper filter sizing and premium filtration media maintain water clarity with less chemical intervention and fewer maintenance headaches.
Adequate seating and ledges: Built-in features that enhance usability should precede decorative tile upgrades.
Once functional priorities are covered, aesthetic enhancements create the distinctive character that makes your pool uniquely yours. Master Pools Guild builders excel at integrating premium finishes with functional design, ensuring you don't sacrifice either priority.
For North Texas landscaping integration, we coordinate pool finishes with surrounding hardscape and outdoor living areas. This comprehensive approach prevents the disjointed appearance that results when pools are designed in isolation from their environment.
Regret #7: Inadequate Site Analysis and Planning
Rushing into construction without a comprehensive site evaluation creates problems that haunt homeowners for years. Proper planning prevents these expensive mistakes that become evident only after completion.
The Problem
Enthusiastic homeowners sometimes pressure pool contractors in Texas to begin construction before adequately addressing site complications. This impatience leads to drainage issues, equipment placement problems, utility conflicts, and access difficulties.
Common site planning mistakes include:
Poor drainage design: Water pooling near the deck, erosion problems, and foundation moisture issues develop when surface water management receives insufficient attention.
Awkward equipment placement: Pool equipment positioned where noise bothers neighbors or where access for maintenance is difficult.
Utility conflicts: Discovering buried electrical lines, gas pipes, or septic systems during excavation causes delays and unexpected costs.
Sun exposure miscalculation: Pools positioned where trees create excessive shade or where afternoon sun makes west-facing deck seating unbearably hot.
Access challenges: Equipment trucks and concrete pumps need space to maneuver. Properties with narrow gates, tight corners, or mature landscaping create access nightmares.
The Solution
Allison Pools begins every project with a comprehensive site analysis. Our process includes:
Soil testing: Understanding soil composition, bearing capacity, and drainage characteristics before designing the pool prevents structural problems and determines appropriate construction methods.
Utility location: We coordinate utility marking for all underground services, preventing excavation surprises and ensuring equipment placement avoids conflicts.
Sun pattern study: Analyzing sun angles throughout the day and across seasons helps position pools and deck areas for optimal enjoyment. North Texas properties must account for intense summer sun and winter shadows that affect pool heating and comfort.
Drainage engineering: We design comprehensive drainage systems that direct water away from pool areas, prevent erosion, and protect both the pool structure and the surrounding landscape.
3D site modeling: Advanced software creates accurate representations of finished projects within existing landscapes. This reveals potential problems before breaking ground.
For pools in Denison, TX, and Sherman, where many properties sit on sloped lots or in established neighborhoods with mature trees, site analysis becomes even more critical. Working around existing features while creating functional outdoor spaces requires experience and careful planning.
Lake Texoma properties add another layer: coordinating with U.S. Army Corps of Engineers regulations, managing waterfront access, and integrating pools with lake views require specialized knowledge.
The comprehensive planning Allison Landscape & Pool Company provides prevents the "wish we'd thought of that" regrets that plague homeowners who rushed construction.
Avoid These Regrets with Expert Guidance
40+ years of Master Pools Guild expertise ensures your North Texas pool delivers lasting satisfaction. Let Allison Landscape & Pool Company guide you through design decisions that protect your investment and enhance your lifestyle.
Serving Sherman, Denison, Lake Texoma, and North Texas since 1983
Making Informed Decisions for Long-Term Satisfaction
Every design decision during pool planning reverberates through years of ownership. The features you include or exclude, the dimensions you select, and the quality standards you maintain determine whether your pool becomes a cherished lifestyle enhancement or a source of ongoing regret.
Swimming pool builders in Texas encounter these patterns repeatedly. Homeowners who invest time in comprehensive planning, prioritize functionality alongside aesthetics, and work with experienced pool contractors in Texas consistently report higher satisfaction levels.
The Master Pools Guild network provides Allison Pools access to collective wisdom spanning thousands of pool projects worldwide. This knowledge base reveals which features deliver lasting value versus those that initially appeal but provide limited practical benefit.
For North Texas pool builders serving clients in Sherman, Denison, and Lake Texoma communities, understanding regional climate impacts, soil conditions, and lifestyle patterns becomes essential. What works in Florida or Arizona doesn't necessarily translate to North Texas's specific challenges and opportunities.
Our 40-year track record of building hundreds of pools across the region means we've witnessed which design decisions age well and which produce regret. This experience protects your investment by steering you toward choices that deliver satisfaction throughout pool ownership. Browse our award-winning portfolio to see decades of proven results.
Questions to Ask During Pool Planning
Protecting yourself from future regrets requires asking the right questions early in the planning process:
What features do existing pool owners wish they'd included? Experienced pool companies in Texas should readily share common regret patterns they've observed.
How will this pool work for our family in 5-10 years? Children grow, circumstances change, and lifestyle needs evolve. Design for anticipated futures, not just current situations.
What's the total project budget, including deck space and outdoor living areas? Pools shouldn't be designed in isolation from surrounding environments.
How does this design account for our property's specific site conditions? Drainage, sun exposure, utility placement, and soil characteristics all impact long-term success.
What's the maintenance reality for this design? Complex features that look amazing but create upkeep headaches become sources of regret.
What elements can be added later versus what must be included now? Understanding which features become exponentially more expensive to add post-construction helps prioritize spending.
AtAllison Landscape & Pool Company, we encourage these conversations because educated clients make better decisions. Our goal is pools that deliver satisfaction for decades, not just impressive initial builds that disappoint over time.
Learn From Our Four Decades of Experience
Allison Pools has designed and built hundreds of custom pools across North Texas since 1983. Our Master Pools Guild membership and HGTV recognition demonstrate consistent excellence. Explore our portfolio to see how proper planning and experienced execution prevent common regrets.
Browse Our Award-Winning Projects →Creating Your Ideal North Texas Pool
Building a pool represents a significant investment in your property and lifestyle. The decisions you make during planning determine whether that investment delivers decades of enjoyment or becomes a source of ongoing regret.
Allison Landscape & Pool Company approaches each project as a partnership. We bring 40+ years of experience building pools in North Texas, Master Pools Guild technical expertise, and a comprehensive understanding of regional challenges. You bring knowledge of your family's needs, aesthetic preferences, and budget realities.
Together, we create outdoor living environments that enhance property value while delivering the daily satisfaction that makes pool ownership worthwhile. By learning from common regret patterns and applying proven design principles, we help you avoid the mistakes that plague less experienced builders and rushed planning processes.
Whether you're considering a pool for your Sherman home, planning a Lake Texoma waterfront property, or designing outdoor living spaces in Denison, the principles remain consistent: thoughtful planning, functional priorities, quality construction, and experienced guidance prevent regrets while creating spaces you'll cherish.
Your pool should represent one of the best decisions you make as a homeowner, not a compromise you learn to tolerate. By understanding these seven common regret patterns and working with swimming pool builders in Texas committed to long-term client satisfaction, you can confidently move forward with pool construction knowing you've made informed decisions.
Ready to Build Your Pool the Right Way?
Schedule a consultation with Allison Landscape & Pool Company to discuss your vision, explore design options, and create a comprehensive plan that prevents common regrets. Our Master Pools Guild expertise and North Texas specialization ensure your project delivers lasting satisfaction.
Explore More Pool Planning Resources
Continue your pool planning education with these related topics:
What We Do: Custom Pool Design & Construction – Discover our comprehensive approach to pool building
Our Philosophy: Excellence and Integrity – Learn about the values guiding our 40+ year commitment
Master Pools Guild Certification – Understand the quality standards protecting your investment
Awards & Recognition – Review our track record of design excellence
Dream Book Gallery – Browse inspiration for your custom pool project
Negative Edge Pools: Engineering for Lake Texoma Properties
It all begins with an idea.
When Allison Landscape & Pool Company designed the award-winning negative-edge pool overlooking Lake Texoma, featured on HGTV's 'Best Pool Ever,' the engineering complexity went far beyond creating a stunning visual effect. For homeowners considering a pool in Denison, TX, or along the Texoma shoreline, understanding the hidden technical requirements is crucial in distinguishing a breathtaking infinity edge from a maintenance nightmare.
After building hundreds of custom pools across North Texas and Southern Oklahoma since 1983, our team has witnessed firsthand what happens when builders underestimate the precision required for negative-edge pool construction. The difference between exceptional craftsmanship and costly failure often comes down to millimeters.
What Makes Negative Edge Pool Construction So Complex?
Negative edge pools, also called infinity or vanishing edge pools, create the illusion that water extends seamlessly into the horizon. But achieving this effect requires sophisticated engineering that standard pool builders often overlook.
The fundamental challenge? Water must flow uniformly over the disappearing edge at a consistent rate while maintaining the pool's water level within 1/8 inch tolerance. This requires three critical engineering systems working in perfect harmony.
The Catch Basin: The Invisible Foundation
Every negative-edge pool requires a surge tank or catch basin positioned below the weir wall. This hidden reservoir collects the overflow water and houses the pumps that recirculate it back into the main pool.
Swimming pool builders in Texas frequently miscalculate catch basin sizing—a mistake that reveals itself immediately upon completion. The basin must accommodate:
Water in transit when the system operates (typically 1/8 inch additional depth across the entire pool surface)
Water displacement when swimmers enter the pool
Evaporation makes up the water for the entire pool volume
Surge capacity for wind-driven waves
For a standard 14x28-foot pool, this translates to a catch basin holding 300-500 gallons—far more than inexperienced pool contractors in Texas initially estimate. On a Lake Texoma property where wind patterns create constant water movement, undersized catch basins lead to overflow, water loss, and pump damage.
At Allison Pools, we calculate catch basin requirements using actual site conditions, including prevailing wind direction, elevation changes, and anticipated pool usage patterns. This engineering precision, refined over 40 years as Master Pools Guild members, prevents the overflow disasters we've been called to remedy on projects built by others.
Laser-Level Precision: The 1/16-Inch Standard
The weir wall—where water spills over the edge—must be level within tolerances that would make most builders uncomfortable. North Texas pool builders working at Master Pools Guild standards maintain 1/16-inch accuracy across the entire weir length.
Why such extreme precision? Because any variation creates visible dry spots or uneven water flow, destroying the infinity illusion. A weir that's 1/8 inch higher on one end will show an obvious water level difference visible from 50 feet away.
This level of accuracy requires professional-grade laser levels—not the $49 consumer models from hardware stores. Commercial laser levels with accuracy specifications of ±1/16 inch per 100 feet are essential. Our project managers verify weir level at multiple construction stages, from shotcrete application through tile installation.
Pool companies in Texas that delegate leveling responsibility to tile setters or masons discover too late that making corrections with thin-set mortar creates weak bonds and premature failure. The shotcrete shell must be precise from day one.
Hydraulic Engineering: Balancing Flow Rates
The hydraulic system for a negative edge pool operates differently from standard pool circulation. A dedicated variable-speed pump maintains constant water flow over the weir while a separate system handles main pool filtration.
For Lake Texoma installations where pools integrate with waterfront views, we engineer hydraulic systems that account for:
Wind-driven water loss: Consistent breeze across the lake surface accelerates evaporation and can blow water beyond the catch basin if flow rates aren't properly calibrated.
Seasonal temperature variations: North Texas experiences 100°F+ summer days and occasional freezing winters. Thermal expansion and contraction affect water volume and require automatic level controls.
Site-specific grade changes: Texoma pools built on sloped lots require additional engineering to ensure the catch basin positioning and pump sizing accommodate gravity's effects on water flow.
Variable-speed pumps allow precise flow adjustment, keeping the weir wall wet with minimal water movement. This reduces energy consumption while preventing mineral buildup on tile and stone finishes—a critical consideration given North Texas's hard water conditions.
Lake Texoma-Specific Engineering Challenges
Building pools in Sherman, TX, or along the Lake Texoma corridor introduces unique complications that swimming pool builders in Texas must address during the design phase.
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Regulations
The Corps of Engineers manages Lake Texoma shoreline and enforces strict regulations affecting pool construction on waterfront properties. Homeowners own land beginning 30 feet from the shoreline, but any construction affecting natural drainage or vegetation requires permits.
Negative-edge pools that appear to merge with the lake must route overflow water properly to avoid erosion or contamination of the public shoreline. Our design process includes:
Drainage system engineering that directs pool water away from Corps-managed areas
Catch basin positioning that complies with setback requirements
Vegetation preservation plans that maintain natural buffers
At Allison Landscape & Pool Company, we've navigated these regulations since our 2004 Master Pools Guild induction, when we began specializing in high-end Lake Texoma projects. Understanding Corps requirements prevents permit delays and ensures your investment complies with federal oversight.
Soil Stability and Foundation Requirements
North Texas clay soil presents unique challenges for negative-edge pool construction. The region's expansive clay swells with moisture and shrinks during drought, creating ground movement that can crack pool shells and shift weir walls.
Proper foundation engineering for Texoma pools includes:
Soil analysis: We test bearing capacity and expansion potential before determining footer depths. Lake Texoma properties often show variation in soil composition due to historical water level changes.
Structural reinforcement: Steel rebar placement follows engineering specifications that account for lateral soil pressure. The freestanding weir wall requires additional reinforcement since it bears load from only one side.
Waterproofing redundancy: We apply crystalline waterproofing to the interior and a membrane system to the exterior of weir walls. This prevents water migration through the wall—a common failure point that causes tile delamination and mineral buildup.
Pool contractors in Texas who skip comprehensive soil analysis often discover problems after construction when seasonal ground movement cracks the shell or causes the weir wall to settle unevenly.
Elevation and View Optimization
The primary advantage of negative-edge pools on Lake Texoma properties is maximizing water views. Poor elevation planning undermines this benefit.
We use 3D modeling and site analysis to position pools where the infinity edge aligns with the lake's horizon line when viewed from the home's main living areas. This requires:
Calculating sight lines from interior spaces, decks, and outdoor living areas
Determining optimal pool elevation relative to natural grade
Positioning the weir wall to frame the best views while avoiding utility conflicts
On sloped Denison, TX lots, this often means extensive site grading and retaining wall construction before pool excavation begins. The additional cost protects your investment by ensuring the finished pool delivers the visual impact you're paying for.
The True Cost of Negative Edge Excellence
Negative-edge pools typically cost 20-30% more than standard pool construction, but this percentage varies significantly based on engineering requirements.
For North Texas swimming pool builders working at Master Pools Guild standards, accurate budgeting includes:
Engineering and design: 3D modeling, soil analysis, hydraulic calculations, and structural engineering drawings add $5,000-$15,000 to project costs.
Specialized equipment: Professional laser levels, precision forming systems, and variable-speed hydraulic pumps exceed standard pool equipment costs by $8,000-$12,000.
Premium materials: High-grade waterproofing systems, corrosion-resistant tile, and natural stone finishes for the weir wall add $15,000-$25,000, depending on selections.
Extended construction timeline: Negative edge pool projects require 12-16 weeks versus 8-12 weeks for standard pools, adding labor costs.
Lake Texoma projects with Corps permit requirements, challenging site conditions, or extensive outdoor living integration can increase costs by an additional 15-20% beyond standard negative edge pricing.
At Allison Pools, we provide transparent estimates that account for site-specific conditions. Our 40+ years of building pools in North Texas mean we've encountered virtually every complication and can accurately predict costs before breaking ground.
Maintenance Requirements: What Lake Texoma Owners Should Know
Negative-edge pools require more sophisticated maintenance than skimmer pools, but the additional effort is manageable with proper system design.
Catch Basin Maintenance
The catch basin collects debris along with overflow water, requiring regular cleaning. North Texas landscaping includes mesquite, oak, and cedar trees that shed leaves and pollen, particularly during spring and fall.
We design catch basins with:
Easy-access panels for cleaning without draining the system
Pre-filtration screens that capture large debris before it reaches pumps
Adequate depth (42-48 inches) that allows debris to settle without affecting pump operation
Weekly skimming of the catch basin takes 10-15 minutes—a small investment to prevent clogged pumps and maintain water quality.
Water Level Management
Negative-edge pools are sensitive to water level changes. The automated level control systems we install maintain consistent water height within 1/4 inch tolerance, automatically adding water as needed.
Lake Texoma's wind and sun exposure accelerate evaporation. During peak summer, pools can lose 1-2 inches weekly, double the rate of standard pools. Variable-speed pumps minimize this loss by reducing flow rates when the pool isn't in use.
Mineral Buildup Prevention
North Texas water contains high calcium and mineral content that creates scaling on tile and stone surfaces. The constant water flow over weir walls accelerates the buildup if not properly managed.
Our maintenance recommendations include:
Weekly acid washing of the weir wall face to prevent mineral accumulation
Quarterly tile and stone sealing with penetrating sealants
Monthly water chemistry testing with adjustments to prevent scaling
The variable-speed pumps we specify allow programmed schedules that keep weir walls wet during peak sun hours (reducing mineral deposits) while lowering flow at night to conserve energy.
Design Integration: Beyond the Pool
Allison Landscape & Pool Company's approach to Lake Texoma negative edge pools extends beyond the pool shell itself. Our designs integrate:
Custom Glass Guardrails
The HGTV-featured project included custom glass guardrails that preserve lake views while meeting safety codes. Frameless glass systems appear nearly invisible, allowing the negative edge effect to remain the focal point.
Glass guardrails require careful engineering for wind load—particularly important on elevated Lake Texoma properties where gusts can exceed 40 mph. We specify tempered, laminated glass with structural posts engineered for 150% of expected wind force.
Natural Stone Integration
The travertine and boulder coping on our Lake Texoma projects creates visual continuity between the pool and natural shoreline. We source stone with thermal properties that stay comfortable underfoot even during North Texas summer heat.
Pool companies in Texas often overlook the importance of coping selection. The wrong material shows every water spot and mineral deposit, requiring constant cleaning. Our travertine selections include penetrating sealants applied during installation and hide minor scaling between maintenance intervals.
Fire and Water Features
The fire pots featured on the HGTV project required gas line routing, structural supports rated for high temperatures, and positioning that creates dramatic ambiance without compromising safety.
This level of detail—coordinating multiple trades, engineering structural supports, and integrating sophisticated features—demonstrates why Master Pools Guild builders command premium pricing. We're not just pool contractors in Texas; we're outdoor living specialists who understand how every element works together.
Why Master Pools Guild Certification Matters
Allison Pools joined the Master Pools Guild in 2004, a network of fewer than 100 elite swimming pool builders worldwide. This membership isn't just a credential—it's a commitment to construction standards that protect your investment.
Guild members meet twice annually to share technical innovations, review industry best practices, and study project failures. This collaborative approach means that when you hire Allison Landscape & Pool Company, you benefit from collective knowledge spanning:
Over 6,000 combined years of pool building experience
Technical expertise from builders working in extreme climates worldwide
Access to engineering resources and specialty subcontractors
Proven solutions to rare complications that individual builders might encounter once in their careers
For negative edge pools on challenging Lake Texoma sites, this expertise is invaluable. We've solved problems and implemented techniques refined by the industry's best builders—knowledge unavailable to pool contractors in Texas operating outside this network.
Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Pool Builder
When evaluating swimming pool builders in Texas for your negative edge project, ask these specific questions:
How many negative edge pools have you completed in the last 24 months? Look for builders with recent, regular experience—not someone who built one five years ago.
What laser level equipment do you use, and what's its accuracy specification? If they can't answer with specific model numbers and tolerance measurements, they're not equipped for precision work.
How do you size the catch basin? Listen for specific calculations based on pool dimensions, site conditions, and usage patterns—not rule-of-thumb estimates.
What waterproofing systems do you apply to the weir wall? Proper answers include both crystalline and membrane systems applied to multiple surfaces.
Are you a Master Pools Guild member? This immediately identifies builders committed to the highest construction standards.
Do you have experience with U.S. Army Corps of Engineers permits? For Lake Texoma projects, this knowledge is essential.
At Allison Landscape & Pool Company, we answer these questions with specifics backed by 40+ years of documented experience. Our portfolio includes detailed photos, engineering drawings, and client references for projects similar to yours.
Ready to Create Your Lake Texoma Masterpiece?
Experience the Allison Pools difference: Master Pools Guild precision, 40+ years of North Texas expertise, and engineering excellence that transforms Lake Texoma properties into award-winning outdoor living spaces.
Serving Denison, Sherman, Lake Texoma, and North Texas since 1983
Investment Protection: The Allison Pools Warranty
Our commitment to engineering excellence extends beyond construction completion. Allison Landscape & Pool Company provides comprehensive warranty coverage that reflects our confidence in Master Pools Guild construction standards.
Structural integrity warranties cover the shell and weir wall against defects in materials and workmanship. Equipment warranties include the hydraulic systems, pumps, and automated controls essential to negative-edge pool operation.
More importantly, we provide ongoing support from the team that built your pool. Unlike pool contractors in Texas who subcontract construction and disappear after final payment, Allison Pools maintains direct relationships with every client. When you call with questions or concerns, you speak with project managers who understand your specific installation.
This accountability stems from our family business values, guided by Proverbs 22:1: "A good name is more desirable than great riches." Your satisfaction protects our reputation—the foundation of 40+ years serving North Texas and Southern Oklahoma.
Transform Your Lake Texoma Property
Negative-edge pools represent the pinnacle of custom pool design, combining art and engineering to create outdoor living spaces that enhance property value while providing daily enjoyment.
For homeowners along Lake Texoma, the investment in proper engineering and Master Pools Guild construction standards ensures your pool delivers breathtaking views for decades. The precision required—laser-level accuracy, sophisticated hydraulics, and site-specific engineering—demands expertise that separates exceptional builders from those who merely install pools.
At Allison Landscape & Pool Company, we've refined these technical skills across hundreds of projects since 1983. Our HGTV recognition, Master Pools Guild awards, and Pebble Tec certifications demonstrate consistent excellence that protects your investment.
Whether you're envisioning a pool that appears to merge with Lake Texoma's horizon or creating a private oasis in Sherman or Denison, the engineering foundation determines long-term success. The hidden complexity behind that seamless infinity edge—catch basins, hydraulics, and precision construction—requires builders who understand that stunning aesthetics begin with structural excellence.
Explore Our Award-Winning Portfolio
Discover why North Texas homeowners trust Allison Pools for negative edge pool construction. Browse our gallery of Lake Texoma projects, HGTV-featured designs, and Master Pools Guild award winners that showcase engineering precision and artistic vision.
View Our Projects →Learn More About Custom Pool Design
Building a negative edge pool is just one aspect of creating exceptional outdoor living spaces. Explore related topics:
Master Pools Guild Certification: Why It Matters – Understand the quality standards that protect your investment
Our Philosophy – Learn about the family values guiding our 40+ year commitment to excellence
What We Do – Discover our comprehensive design and construction capabilities
Dream Book – Explore inspiration for your custom pool and outdoor living project
Start Your Journey to Award-Winning Pool Design
From concept to reality, Allison Landscape & Pool Company transforms Lake Texoma properties with engineering precision and Master Pools Guild craftsmanship. Let's discuss your vision for a negative edge pool that enhances your waterfront lifestyle.