Frequently Asked Questions

Everything You Need to Know About APC

Building a swimming pool is one of the biggest investments you'll make in your home. Naturally, you'll have questions.

We've organized the answers below to help you better understand APC, our process, our construction standards, and what makes our approach different.

If you don't find the answer you're looking for, we're always happy to help.


About APC

What is APC?

APC is a premium swimming pool builder that combines timeless architectural design, premium craftsmanship, and thoughtfully engineered construction with a modern buying experience. Homeowners can explore pool designs, configure features, view transparent pricing, apply for financing, sign contracts, and manage their project through one connected platform.

Learn more: About APC

What kind of pool is an APC Pool?

An APC Pool is a fully custom, in-ground concrete swimming pool that is professionally engineered and built on-site using proven construction methods, premium materials, and thoughtfully refined craftsmanship.

Construction begins with excavation, followed by the installation of a carefully engineered steel reinforcement system using rebar. This steel framework becomes the structural skeleton of the pool.

Once the steel is complete, the pool shell is formed using either shotcrete or gunite, creating a strong, permanent concrete structure designed for decades of use.

After the concrete shell has properly cured, our craftsmen begin installing one of the defining characteristics of every APC Pool—our signature waterfall-edge porcelain coping and tile system.

Each piece is carefully mitered and aligned to create the clean architectural lines that have become synonymous with the APC Standard™.

Once the architectural detailing is complete, we apply a premium mini pebble interior finish before filling, balancing, and preparing the pool for its first swim.

While we've modernized the way homeowners shop for and purchase a swimming pool, the construction itself follows the same trusted methods used to build the highest-quality custom concrete pools.

The difference isn't that we've reinvented concrete pool construction. We've refined it.

What makes APC different?

Most pool builders focus on the finished product. We focus on both the finished product and the experience of getting there.

Every APC pool is built to premium construction standards while providing homeowners with a transparent, technology-driven buying experience that makes designing, purchasing, and managing a pool dramatically easier.


Design & Construction

Are APC pools custom?

Yes. Homeowners customize the features that matter most while benefiting from a refined design system.

You can personalize:

  • Pool size
  • Spa
  • Baja shelf
  • Steps & Benches
  • Interior finish
  • Coping & Tile
  • Equipment & Upgrades

What's the difference between APC's waterfall-edge coping and a traditional split coping and waterline tile?

One of the first details people notice about an APC Pool is the clean, seamless appearance around the perimeter of the pool.

Our signature waterfall-edge coping begins with premium porcelain coping that is precision-mitered at a 45-degree angle. The matching porcelain tile then continues vertically down the pool wall to the waterline, creating the appearance of one continuous architectural surface.

The result is a clean, contemporary aesthetic inspired by modern architecture and luxury hospitality design.

Traditional pool construction typically uses what's known as a split coping and waterline tile detail. With this approach, the coping and the waterline tile are two completely separate materials.

There's absolutely nothing wrong with this traditional construction method. However, it creates a much more conventional appearance. At APC, we chose the waterfall-edge detail because we believe it creates a cleaner, more timeless architectural aesthetic.

Can I change the size of a pool?

Yes. Our pool collections provide a starting point, and dimensions can often be adjusted to better suit your backyard and project goals.

Can I add a spa?

Absolutely. Many homeowners choose to add a spa, and it's one of the most popular ways to personalize an APC pool.

Can I customize the steps, benches, or Baja shelf?

Yes. These elements can be configured to match how you plan to use your pool while maintaining the clean architectural style that defines APC.

Why do you offer curated finish selections?

We believe homeowners benefit more from thoughtfully curated materials than hundreds of unrelated choices. Our finish collections have been selected because they consistently create timeless, modern outdoor spaces.


Pricing

How much does an APC pool cost?

Pricing varies depending on pool size, selected options, site conditions, permits, and other project-specific factors.

One of the biggest differences with APC is that homeowners can explore transparent pricing early in the buying process rather than waiting weeks for an estimate.

Why are your prices available online?

We believe homeowners deserve to understand whether a project fits their budget before investing significant time in the design process. Transparency creates confidence.

Why do APC pools cost more than some builders?

Because we build to a premium standard. Many features that are optional upgrades elsewhere are included as part of our standard approach.

When comparing proposals, we encourage homeowners to compare everything that's included—not just the final number.

Are there hidden costs?

No. If site-specific conditions require additional work, we'll explain those items before construction begins whenever possible. We believe transparency is one of the most important parts of the customer experience.

What affects the final price?

Common factors include:

  • Pool size
  • Spa additions
  • Site access
  • Soil conditions
  • Elevation changes
  • Utility conflicts
  • Permit requirements
  • Optional upgrades

Construction

How long does construction take?

One of the biggest advantages of the APC approach is our streamlined construction process. In most cases, construction is completed in six weeks or less from the start of excavation.

Traditional pool construction often takes 10–16 weeks or more, but we've refined our designs, engineering, construction methods, and project management to deliver a more efficient process without compromising craftsmanship or quality.

Like any construction project, there are factors outside anyone's control that can affect the schedule, including permit approval timelines, weather, inspections, unexpected site conditions, and utility conflicts.

When those situations arise, we'll communicate them openly and keep you informed every step of the way. Our goal isn't simply to build quickly. It's to build predictably, efficiently, and to the APC Standard™.

What is the construction process?

Our process generally includes:

  • Design & Configuration
  • Proposal & Financing
  • Permits & Engineering
  • Excavation
  • Plumbing & Electrical
  • Steel Reinforcement
  • Tile & Coping
  • Pebble Finish
  • Final Startup
  • Project Completion

Can I track my project?

Yes. Every customer has access to the APC project management platform, where you can review schedules, documents, updates, photos, and communicate with your project team.

Can I visit completed projects or speak with previous customers?

Whenever possible, yes. We believe seeing completed work in person and speaking with previous homeowners is one of the best ways to evaluate a builder. We want homeowners to feel confident in their decision and are proud of the relationships we've built.


Quality & Materials

What makes an APC pool premium?

Every APC pool is built around timeless architecture, premium craftsmanship, thoughtful engineering, carefully selected materials, transparent communication, and long-term value.

What comes standard?

Depending on the package, standard features typically include a premium interior finish, saltwater system, automation, LED lighting, our signature waterfall-edge coping, and curated finish selections.

Why don't you build budget pools?

Because we've learned that many of the features homeowners remove to reduce the initial price are the same features they often wish they had included later. We've chosen to build every APC pool to a standard we'd proudly own ourselves.


Financing & Getting Started

Do you offer financing?

Yes. We partner with financing providers to help homeowners finance their swimming pool project.

Can I apply for financing online?

Yes. Financing is integrated into the APC buying experience, allowing qualified homeowners to begin the application process digitally.

How do I get started?

Browse our pool collections, configure the design that best fits your backyard, explore transparent pricing, and contact our team when you're ready to move forward.

Can I really design and price my pool online?

Yes. One of the biggest differences with APC is that homeowners can explore designs, configure layouts, personalize features, and understand pricing before scheduling a consultation.