Pool Design & Construction
Custom Gunite Pools Designed for Your Lifestyle
At Ramapo Valley Pools INC, we specialize in designing and building custom gunite swimming pools tailored to each client’s vision, property layout, and long-term needs. We understand that a pool is not just an addition to your home — it’s an investment and a space where memories are made.
From the first consultation to the final walkthrough, our team manages the entire process with precision and care.
What We Provide:
Design Consultation & Planning
We begin by understanding your goals, space, and budget. Our team develops a custom design that blends seamlessly with your home’s architecture and landscape.
Gunite Pool Construction
Gunite allows for superior strength, durability, and design flexibility. Whether you want a modern geometric pool or a freeform natural design, we build pools engineered to last.
Outdoor Living Enhancements
We also integrate patios, hardscaping, lighting, water features, and surrounding elements to create a complete backyard environment.
Let’s Start Your Next Project
What is a gunite pool?
The first step is a professional inspection and consultation with our team. This allows a us to assess the pool’s condition, identify issues, and recommend the best plan for your needs and budget.
Why choose a gunite pool over fiberglass or vinyl?
Gunite pools offer unmatched customization in shape, size, depth, and features. They are ideal for complex designs, luxury finishes, integrated spas, and challenging site conditions. Gunite pools are also the most durable long-term option.
How long does it take to build a gunite pool?
Construction typically takes 8–12 weeks once excavation begins, depending on weather, permitting, site conditions, and project complexity.
How much does a custom gunite pool cost?
Costs vary based on size, materials, features, and site conditions. Most custom gunite pools start around $125,000+, with high-end projects often exceeding that depending on finishes, spas, water features, and outdoor living elements.
What is included in a typical pool project?
A complete project usually includes:
• Pool design and engineering
• Permits and approvals
• Excavation and structure
• Plumbing and electrical systems
• Tile and coping
• Interior finish (plaster, pebble, etc.)
• Equipment installation
• Startup and water balancing
Many projects also include patios, landscaping, lighting, and outdoor living spaces.
How long will a gunite pool last?
The concrete structure of a gunite pool can last 50+ years when properly built and maintained. Interior finishes are typically resurfaced every 10–20 years depending on the material used.
What pool finishes are available?
Popular interior finishes include:
• Standard plaster
• Quartz finishes
• Pebble finishes
• Glass bead finishes
Each offers different textures, colors, durability, and water appearance.
Can you build a spa with the pool?
Yes. Integrated spas are one of the most popular features in custom pools. Spas can be raised, flush with the pool, or designed as a separate feature with spillovers or water walls.
What special features can be added to a custom pool?
Common luxury features include:
• Sun shelves and tanning ledges
• Infinity / negative edge pools
• Waterfalls and sheer descents
• Fire bowls and fire features
• LED lighting
• Swim-up bars and benches
• Automatic covers
• Smart automation systems
What is pool automation?
Automation allows you to control pool functions such as pumps, heaters, lighting, and water features from a smartphone or tablet. Chemical maintenance can also be controlled.
How much maintenance does a pool require?
Pools require regular maintenance including:
• Water chemistry balancing
• Cleaning and brushing
• Filter maintenance
• Equipment inspection
Most homeowners choose professional weekly service to keep the pool operating and looking its best.
Do you provide pool service after construction?
Yes. We provide ongoing service including openings, closings, cleaning, equipment maintenance, and renovations to ensure your pool performs properly for years to come.
Do I need permits to build a pool?
Yes. Pool construction requires permits and inspections. Our team manages the permitting process and coordinates with local municipalities to ensure everything is built to code.
What happens during the design process?
The design process typically includes:
1. Initial consultation
2. Site evaluation and measurements
3. Custom design and layout
4. Material and feature selections
5. Engineering and permits
Can you renovate an existing pool?
Yes. Pool renovations may include resurfacing, new tile and coping, equipment upgrades, lighting, adding spas or water features, and full redesigns.
What type of equipment will my pool use?
Most modern pools use energy-efficient variable-speed pumps, DE filters, LED lighting, and automated control systems. We use the top industry brands including Jandy, Hayward and Pentair.
When is the best time to build a pool?
Fall and winter are often ideal times to start construction so the pool is ready for the next swimming season. Planning early also allows more time for design and permitting. Early spring is also a good time to begin, as soon as the ground thaws.
Will my yard be damaged during construction?
Construction equipment will access the yard during excavation and building. We take care to minimize disruption and to work neatly and efficiently.
Can a pool be built on a challenging property?
Yes. Gunite construction allows pools to be built on sloped lots, tight spaces, or properties requiring retaining walls or structural solutions.
Why should I choose Ramapo Valley Pool?
Ramapo Valley Pool is a full-service swimming pool company with over 45 years of experience. We design, build, and service the pools we create. This gives us a deeper understanding of how pools perform over time and allows us to build projects that are not only beautiful but also reliable and easy to maintain.
What makes your company different from other pool builders?
A gunite pool is a custom-built swimming pool constructed using a steel rebar framework sprayed with a concrete mixture (gunite). This process allows complete design flexibility and creates a structurally strong pool that can last for decades.
How long have you been building pools?
Ramapo Valley Pool has been serving homeowners throughout New Jersey for over four decades, with experience across a wide range of projects from simple backyard pools to highly customized luxury installations.
What types of projects do you specialize in?
We specialize in custom gunite swimming pools designed to complement the architecture of the home and landscape. Our projects often include:
• Integrated spas
• Negative edge pools
• Sun shelves and custom benches
• Water and fire features
• High-end stone and tile finishes
• Complete backyard environments
Do you only build pools, or do you service them too?
We do both. Our company provides ongoing service, maintenance, openings, closings, equipment repairs, and renovations. Because we care for the pools we build, we take extra care to construct them correctly from the start.
Why does it matter that your company services the pools you build?
Service experience provides valuable insight into how pools age and perform over time. This allows us to design systems and details that improve longevity, efficiency, and ease of maintenance, benefiting our clients long after construction is complete.
How involved will I be in the design process?
We work closely with each client during the design phase to develop a pool that fits both the property and the homeowner’s lifestyle. This includes reviewing layouts, materials, features, and finishes to ensure the final design feels intentional and cohesive with the home.
Can you help design the entire backyard?
Yes. While the pool is often the centerpiece, we frequently help coordinate the design of the entire outdoor environment in conjunction with landscape professionals, including patios, lighting, landscaping, outdoor kitchens, and other outdoor living elements.
Do you work on complex or challenging properties?
Yes. Many of our projects involve unique site conditions, including slopes, tight spaces, or detailed architectural requirements. Our experience allows us to develop creative solutions while maintaining structural integrity and design quality.
What level of quality should I expect?
We focus on craftsmanship, durability, and thoughtful design. Our goal is to build pools that look exceptional on day one and continue to perform well for many years.
What areas do you serve?
Ramapo Valley Pool serves homeowners throughout Northern New Jersey and beyond, working on residential and commercial properties that require thoughtful design, quality construction, and long-term service support.
What happens after the pool is completed?
Once construction is finished, our service team helps with:
- Pool startup and water balancing
- Equipment orientation
- Ongoing maintenance and service
- Seasonal openings and closings
This ensures your pool continues to operate properly year after year.
How do I begin a project?
The first step is scheduling a consultation. We’ll review your property, discuss your goals, and begin developing a custom pool design tailored to your home.
