If you’re planning to build your own swimming pool — whether as an ambitious DIY project or to hire subcontractors — one of the biggest hurdles is getting professional-grade design plans and blueprints. That’s exactly where Designs by Pool Aid steps in. In this in-depth review, we’ll walk through who they are, what services they offer, how their process works, and whether their offerings are worth your investment.
What Is Designs by Pool Aid?
Designs by Pool Aid is an online service that provides custom swimming pool designs, blueprints, and rendering packages tailored to homeowners and “owner-builders.” Unlike traditional pool builders who also sell and construct pools, Pool Aid focuses on the design phase — giving you the detailed planning documents you need to confidently build or quote out your pool project.
The company was created by experienced pool builders with decades of combined industry experience. According to their website, the founders decided that owner-builders should have access to structured, professional design resources to make the process more manageable, affordable, and beautiful.
Why Pool Aid Might Be Helpful for Pool Owners
Building a pool is far more than digging a hole and filling it with water. A successful pool project requires detailed planning for:
- Shape and size
- Equipment layout
- Plumbing and electrical routing
- Decking and hardscape integration
- Permit-ready blueprints
Most homeowners don’t have the training or software to produce construction-grade plans. That’s where Designs by Pool Aid steps in — by providing 2D and 3D design files, engineering call-outs, and detailed drawings that are intended to help with everything from HOA approvals to contractor bids.
As the company itself puts it, their mission is to help homeowners “create the swimming pool of their dreams” while reducing guesswork and providing a proven design process.
Overview of Pool Aid Packages
Designs by Pool Aid offers multiple design tiers that scale with your needs and budget. These options are clearly laid out on their site, and each comes with a different level of deliverables.
1. Pool 3D Rendering Plan — ~$899
This entry-level package includes:
- 2D and 3D layout of your pool and spa
- Hardscape and deck renderings
- Basic lighting and landscape concepts
- Scaled 2D blueprints with measurements
- Fly-through 3D concept videos
It’s ideal if you want a visual representation of your future pool and basic layout plans to start conversations with contractors.
2. Pool Builders Plan — ~$2,950
The Builder’s Plan is their most comprehensive package, including everything in the 3D Rendering Plan plus:
- Full plumbing, gas, electrical, and drainage call-outs
- Engineering prints and steel calculations needed for permit approvals
- Permit-ready construction drawings
- One design revision included
This is the option to consider if you want a complete set of build-ready documents to show permitting authorities or contractors.
3. Custom Plan — Call for Quote
For those who want the highest level of design service, Pool Aid also offers custom plans that may include onsite consultations and tailored design help — though availability may be restricted to certain geographic regions (e.g., Nevada, California, Utah, Arizona).
The Design Process
The Pool Aid design process is structured and collaborative:
- Initial Zoom consultation – You meet with a designer to discuss your idea, layout, style, and needs.
- Concept creation – Based on your input, the team generates 2D and 3D visuals and rough layouts.
- Review and revision – You have the opportunity to make changes through at least one included revision.
- Final deliverables – Pool Aid provides the final plans, renderings, blueprints, and video walk-throughs.
The process aims to give homeowners a clear vision of the finished pool before they start construction or solicit contractor bids — which can save time, frustration, and potential redesign costs later.
What’s Included With Your Purchase
Customers who order a plan from Designs by Pool Aid can expect:
- A professional set of blueprints
- Project binders with specifications
- A checklist of tasks to help manage the build
- Access to a design library and video resources
- Interaction with the design team during planning
These tools are meant to help you understand every step of the process and enable coordinated communication with your subcontractors and permitting offices.
Pros of Using Pool Aid
Here are some of the biggest advantages to using Designs by Pool Aid:
1. Professional Designs Without a Full Builder Cost
Hiring a full service pool builder typically includes expensive construction markup and builder overhead. Pool Aid focuses strictly on the design phase, which can dramatically reduce your upfront cost to get the plans you need.
2. Visual and Technical Deliverables
You get both creative 3D renderings and technical blueprints that together make communication with subcontractors much clearer. Many DIY pool owners find this especially helpful when planning complex features like spas, lighting, or hardscaping.
3. One Revision Included
Most clients can tweak the initial layout through one included revision, making sure the design aligns with their vision before finalizing.
4. Support for Owner-Builders
If you truly want to build your pool yourself or manage the project closely, having a professional design in hand allows you to seek quotes from multiple contractors or even handle parts of the build on your own.
Considerations and Potential Drawbacks
While Designs by Pool Aid can be a great resource, it’s important to keep a few things in mind:
1. Focused Strictly on Design
Pool Aid does not handle construction — their service stops at the planning phase. This means you still need to find a qualified contractor (or do the build yourself) to bring the design to life.
2. Revisions Beyond First May Cost Extra
Additional changes after the first revision may incur extra charges. This means it’s important to be clear about your goals and expectations in the first round.
3. Not Available Everywhere
The highest-tier packages with onsite consultation are currently limited to a few states. If you live outside those areas, you may need to rely on digital plans only.
4. Self-Management Required
Owner-builders still need to navigate permits, HOA approvals, and construction scheduling — so if you want a full turnkey solution, a traditional pool builder might be a better fit.
What Customers Say
Most of the testimonials featured on the Pool Aid website are very positive, with users highlighting how the designs helped them visualize their pool and communicate with contractors. Customers also praise the detailed blueprints and the guidance provided during the planning phase.
Examples of common testimonial themes:
- Design clarity – “Designs by Pool Aid designed my pool and provided all the drawings I needed to get my permits and HOA approval.”
- Ease of process – “The process was quick and easy and helped me get the ball rolling.”
- Professional interaction – “After I met with my designer on a Zoom meeting, I felt a lot better about my project.”
Bear in mind that these reviews are hosted on the company’s site, so for a balanced decision it’s a good idea to compare with independent feedback where available.
Who Should Consider Designs by Pool Aid?
Designs by Pool Aid can be a solid choice if:
- You want custom pool plans but don’t want to pay full builder markup.
- You’re an experienced DIYer or owner-builder looking to manage your own project.
- You need permit-ready drawings before hiring subcontractors.
- You want professional renderings for visualization and planning.
Final Thoughts: Worth It or Not?
If the thought of tackling your pool design on your own feels daunting, but you also want to avoid the full cost of design-build firms, Designs by Pool Aid offers an attractive middle ground. Their designs combine creativity with practical engineering plans and can help you save time, reduce guesswork, and approach contractors from a stronger position.
However, because their service stops at design, this solution is best suited for people who are comfortable handling the next steps of construction, permitting, or contractor coordination on their own. If you need help with every stage of the pool construction process, consider using a full-service DIY company like DIY Pools and Spas.
In short, Designs by Pool Aid is worth considering if you want professional pool design help without the full service price tag — but be prepared to do some of the heavy lifting yourself once your plans are complete.
