Pool Cost Calculator Vs Pool Design Software

Pool builders hear two terms that sound alike: a pool cost calculator and pool design software. They solve different problems, and mixing them up can leave you with a website feature that looks busy and produces nothing.

What a pool cost calculator does

A typical calculator asks a few questions, such as size, material and a couple of options, and returns a price range. It is quick, but it knows nothing about the homeowner's yard or your costs. The numbers come from averages, so a homeowner may leave with expectations that do not match what you would charge.

What pool design software does

Design software puts the homeowner in their own backyard. They enter an address, see their lot, shape a pool, pick materials and see a price. When the price comes from your pricing, the number reflects how you actually bid.

Side by side

• Property: a calculator ignores it. Design software draws the pool on the real lot.
• Pricing: a calculator uses general ranges. Design software can use your pricing menu.
• Materials: a calculator rarely shows them. Design software lets homeowners pick from your catalog.
• What you get: a calculator may give you an email address. Design software gives you contact details, the design, the materials and the timeline.

When a calculator is enough

If you only want a basic content piece that answers "how much does a pool cost" for search traffic, a calculator can do that. It is not designed to turn a visitor into a qualified lead.

What to ask before you choose

• Does the price come from my numbers or generic ones?
• Does the homeowner see their own yard?
• What exactly do I receive when someone finishes?
• Who owns the lead?

Read more about instant pool estimate software, or what pool design software costs.