Custom Pools
Your Backyard Deserves More Than a Standard Build
A custom inground pool is one of the most meaningful investments a homeowner can make in their property and their lifestyle. At A Cut Above Construction, Pools & Landscape Inc., every pool we build starts with a blank slate and ends with exactly what the client envisioned — not a package deal pulled from a catalog.
Founded in 1988 and serving Southwest Riverside County for over 35 years, A Cut Above has completed more than 4,000 custom pool projects across Menifee, Murrieta, Temecula, Winchester, and surrounding communities. That depth of experience means we've solved every site challenge, accommodated every design style, and built pools for every kind of homeowner — from young families looking for a safe, functional backyard retreat to those investing in a resort-style outdoor showpiece.
We are the only true turnkey pool and landscape contractor in the area. That means we minimize the gaps in accountability and handle design, permitting, construction, and landscaping in-house under one roof. Chris Young personally oversees every project from the initial consultation through the final walkthrough, so the standard of care never changes regardless of project size.
Why Choose A Cut Above for Custom Pools
35 Years of Proven Builds Description
Over 35 years and 4,000 completed pools in Southwest Riverside County. That kind of track record only comes from doing the work right, consistently, for a very long time.
Owner on Every Job
Chris Young personally oversees every custom pool project from consultation to completion. The person you meet on day one is accountable for the finished product.
Truly Turnkey
A Cut Above is the only contractor in the area who handles pool construction, outdoor living, and landscaping under one roof. No coordinating multiple crews. No communication gaps.
Fully Licensed and Insured
Licensed under CSLB #672202 with full liability and worker's compensation coverage. Every project comes with properly engineered plans and all required permits handled for you.
Hayward Equipment Standard
Every A Cut Above pool is built with Hayward equipment; variable speed pumps, salt chlorination systems, LED lighting, and smart automation. Quality materials are part of the build, not an upgrade.
Pool Features and Options
Design Options Worth Knowing About
Every custom pool A Cut Above builds includes a curated set of features tailored to how the client actually wants to use their backyard. Below are some of the most popular options incorporated into new builds.
Water Features
Spillover spas, vanishing edges, deck jets, bubblers, and custom waterfalls that add movement and sound to the finished pool environment.
Tanning Ledges and Bench Seating
Shallow entry areas, tanning shelves, and built-in bench seating that expand how the pool is used across different ages and occasions.
Swim-Up Bars and Rock Grottoes
Entertainment-focused features that turn a pool into a genuine backyard destination — designed and built to suit the scale and style of the project.
Custom Coping, Tile, and Plaster Finishes
A wide range of finish options including plaster, pebble and glass bead surfaces, paired with coping and tile selections that define the visual character of the completed pool.
Hayward Equipment Package
Every build includes Hayward's variable speed pump (TriStar VS 950), AquaRite salt chlorinator, SwimClear cartridge filtration, ColorLogic LED lighting, and OmniPL smart automation — all integrated at the time of construction.
Our Process
STEP #1
CONSULTATION
During your consultation with A Cut Above Pools you will be given the opportunity to discuss your ideas with our team. You’ll be given the opportunity to look at various pictures of our previous projects and talk about your vision for your dream yard. We will take detailed notes, and then record measurements of your yard. As always, we are happy to address any questions or comments you might have, as well as learn about your individual expectations.
STEP #2
DESIGN
With each project we typically begin with a 2 dimensional concept, and we use this concept as the basis for our 3D rendered design of your pool. Upon reviewing the design with you, we discuss pricing for the initial concept, and you are given the opportunity to ask questions and make any necessary changes to the design.
STEP #3
BUILD
This is an amazing process to watch! You will witness a complete transformation take place in your backyard. As the longest step, your build covers a few milestones provided in detail below:
- The dig typically takes one to two days, depending on the size of pool and quality of soil.
- Installing the steel and the plumbing in the pool; this also includes putting in the pool equipment.
- Applying shotcrete into the pool creates a solid concrete shell in the ground.
- Coping, Tile, Rock Veneers come together to make the shotcrete shell begin to truly look like the pool of your dreams.
- Concrete decking and outdoor living areas start bringing the yard together.
- Plaster or pebble installation followed filling your new pool with water.
STEP #4
Construction
A Cut Above wraps up with any final touches we need to finish, as well as any landscaping. This is what really brings it all together, and can significantly increase the beauty of your backyard!
STEP #5
Completion and Walkthrough
Time to kick back, relax, and enjoy the backyard of your dreams!
See Our Custom Pool Work
Popular Questions About Custom Pools
How long does it take to build a custom inground pool?
Build timelines vary depending on design complexity, site conditions, and weather. During your consultation we'll provide a more accurate timeline based on your specific project.
Do you build pools for small or oddly shaped backyards?
Yes. Every pool is custom designed to fit the specific dimensions and layout of your yard, including irregular shapes and tight spaces.
What pool finishes do you offer?
We offer plaster, pebble, quartz, and glass bead finishes in a range of colors. Finish options are reviewed during the design phase.
What equipment comes standard with a new pool?
Every A Cut Above pool is built with Hayward equipment including a variable speed pump, salt chlorinator, cartridge filter, LED lighting, and smart automation.
Can I add a spa to my custom pool?
Yes. Attached and freestanding spas are a common addition and can be incorporated into your initial pool design or quoted as a combined package.
Do you handle permits and engineering plans?
Yes. We prepare properly engineered plans and manage all permit submissions and inspections from start to finish.
Do you offer financing for new pool construction?
Yes. We work with Lyon Financial, HFS Financial, and Viking Capital to offer flexible financing options.
SERVICE AREA
Proudly serving homeowners across Southwest Riverside County for over 30 years.
- Menifee, CA
- Murrieta, CA
- Temecula, CA
- Winchester, CA
- Lake Elsinore, CA
- Wildomar, CA
- Canyon Lake, CA
- French Valley, CA
- ...And Surrounding Communities
READY TO GET STARTED?
Get Started with A Free Consultation
We invite you to join our more than 4,000 satisfied customers by contacting A Cut Above for your consultation. Call us at 951.244.7754
Build Your Dream Pool Pay Over Time.
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