John and Cindy Kennedy from Cave Creek:…read more
We decided several years ago to install a swimming pool, but were usure of the design we wanted or what the layout of our backyard would be. So we had the luxury of time and hosted at least 10 pool companies to our home to solicit pool designs, and bids. Our very last bid was SATURN POOLS owned by Nathan Green.
Rarely do you expect a major construction project to complete without some issues or problems. In this build, the rarity occurred. From start to finish the build process was flawless, and the end result was a custom pool designed by Nathan Green based on a concept my wife related to him that he conceptualized for us. Our pool has literally taken our breath away and our custom designed water feature has become the envy of several neighbors (custom designed by Nathan Green). Quality, craftmanship, and materials were all top quality right down to the standard tile selections we opted for (would have been upgrades with any other company).
So here are my takeaways from Saturn Pools and Nathan Green:
1. Saturn pools is what I would refer to as a low volume "boutique" pool company. The focus is not to build 1000 pools in a year, rather my observation is more that Saturn wants to build XX number of high quality pools. There was no high pressure process. Nathan presented his idea, we assessed it, and ultimately went with it.
2. Saturn pools does not weigh the pricing down with pool salesman fees, or additional fees for contractors to pad the bottom line etc. From start to finish you deal with one man, Nathan Green, the owner. He designs the pool, is the project manager for the build, and shows up on the job site regularly to check on the work being performed. It was not out of the ordinary to see him actually out there with a shovel himself. Hands on owner-I liked that.
3. Nathan was approachable, and always either a text message, email, or phone call away. When I came up with looney ideas that I thought would be great add-ons, he politely told me the pros and cons to my idea, and the reasoning behind his thoughts. He also would incorporate an idea if he thought it was beneficial for me. So he helped me not make mistakes he knew I would regret later during my pool ownership.
4. Saturn Pools/Nathan Green also, in my observation, cherry picked the contractors he used. I actually spoke at length to the excavator who was not only courteous, but wanted me aware and informed as to what he was doing-they hit granite so it was a hard dig. I had no idea what it was, but he took me outside and clearly I could see what he was talking about. The tile setter was focused, and the decking crew didn't mess around-they got it done, and were very good in their quality. So my summation on that is that you aren't getting a 1000 pool per year company grab anyone you can to be a sub-contractor. Rather, with Nathan you're getting his preferred contracting crews, crews he has established reciprocal business relationships with that he trusts.
5. Professionalism and customer treatment-outstanding. Nathan never pressured me for money up front etc. Rather there were pay points associated with each phase of the build. He or his office would reach out to me and let me know the amount of the payment needed. Easy Peezy!
So in summary, if I moved and had to build another pool, the only company I would reach out to would be Saturn Pools and Nathan Green and forgo alternate pool companies. I highly recommend Saturn Pools as a builder, and again, the process was flawless from start to finish. As I said before, the quality and materials I gained by using Saturn Pools easily would have cost me $20,000 more due to commissions and added fees the larger cookie cutter companies upcharge for. So not only did I get a value (still wasn't cheap) but I got more for my money. Keep in mind this is a small local company so it takes a little more time to build-not much more, but you'll be happy if you opt for Saturn as your pool builder.
Best wishes in your pool hunt,
John and Cindy Kennedy