–There is a reason Surfside Pools has been thriving since 1969. They do high quality work with incredible attention to detail and aesthetics.
When we began thinking about a pool, there was one in particular that came to mind. It is owned by friends, and is unquestionably one of the most beautiful pools we’d ever seen. When we found out that Surfside was behind the design and construction, there was no question we would use them too.
A small, family run outfit, Surfside paid meticulous attention to the planning and construction of our pool. Kevin’s drawings were inspiring the first time we saw them and through open collaboration with us, they only got better. Bjorn is a master on the excavator and dug the pool without disturbing any of the surrounding area. The crew that has been with them for decades did elegant, top notch work on the coping, terracing and stone retaining walls.
Surfside handled the permitting process and made it a breeze. They showed up when they said they would and stayed until the job was finished.
The end result is better than we ever imagined. We can’t recommend them highly enough.
Joe and Lisa Lovering
Bedford, NY
–In 1994, my wife and I moved to Pound Ridge and decided to install a gunite pool and waterfall. We had two young boys and thought it would be great to have a safe environment at home for them to learn to swim and enjoy the water. We hired a landscape architect to design the pool, because our backyard was sloping and rocky. We chose Surfside Pools to build our pool because we liked the fact that the owner of the company would actually be installing our pool himself with his crew. They also came highly recommended from friends who had used them 20 years beforehand to build a pool and were still working with them. Bjorn situated the pool perfectly, backing it up against a large exposed ledge that dominated the area. The completed pool was stunning. The waterfall flowed out from the base of the exposed ledge. It looked completely natural and organic like it had always been there. Surfside Pools placed boulders around the pool to create planting beds, seating areas and steps to get up to the pool area from our house. We all enjoyed the pool for many years, and Surfside maintained it from the start.
In 2000, we purchased a new piece of property and went through the process of building a new home. We contacted Bjorn and Kevin right away to walk the property with us and give us their thoughts on the new pool location. A few years later, after the house was built, Surfside began construction on our new pool. They were the only choice. Both Bjorn and Kevin are dedicated to their craft, and their employees are talented individuals who have worked with them for years. The end result was even more dramatic than the first pool they built for us. They added a large hot tub with a waterfall into the pool. They also constructed an elaborate set of boulder stairs that lead down from the house to the outdoor shower, the hot tub, and finally the pool and pool house.
Surfside has always done a great job doing the weekly service on the pool, but they also go above and beyond. Whether it is fixing an electronic part that got hit by lightning, damage to the equipment from a fallen tree, or a heater that won’t work on the weekend, they are always there to help us. We continue to enjoy our relationship with Surfside Pools and the Rafoss family and would highly recommend them to anyone building a pool.
Amiel
Pound Ridge
–Starting in 2012, we worked with Kevin Rafoss and Surfside Pools for a period of over a year and a half on a complex project that not only included designing and building a beautiful pool and spa, but also regrading our yard to accommodate a walk out lower level that connected the pool to our home, constructing stone retaining walls, planting beds, bluestone decking and stairs using natural stone as well as bluestone. The team at Surfside removed and rebuilt our existing patios as well. Kevin spent numerous hours meeting with us to get the design just right. He was creative and patient during the design phase and our many changes and additions. He is a talented problem solver and always a pleasure to work with. Kevin and the Surfside team were on site every day working closely with us. They are skilled craftsmen, reliable and professional without exception. To complete the project, Kevin built our state of the art lower level complete with walkout french doors to the patio, a changing room, full bath, bar, exercise and media rooms, and a wine room. In addition to exceptional workmanship, Kevin managed all aspects of the project. We couldn’t be more pleased with the amazing results!
Donna and Emmett
North Salem, NY
–In 2013 my wife and I contacted Surfside Pools to come out and give us a consultation on building a gunite pool at our home in Katonah. They had built a dramatic hillside pool for a client of mine in 1985, and came highly recommended. After numerous discussions and site walks, we decided to build a rectangular pool in the meadow above our house. Kevin came up with a classic design, including a hydraulic safety cover, bluestone patio and a stone seating wall. Permits were filed, and soon we were ready to begin construction. On the first day, in the first hour of excavation we discovered that just underneath our meadow was a mountain of solid rock. We were aware that hitting rock was a possibility, but we didn’t realize the extent of it. Bjorn and Kevin reassured us that they could take care of it. Two days later the rock was gone and construction continued without delay. We ended up with literally tons of stone that we used to build our beautiful walls with. The constant attention our project received was incredible. Kevin and his crew worked tirelessly to shape our pool and landscape. They were polite, personable and professional. The finished pool has added a whole new dimension to our home and to our lives. We highly recommend the services of Surfside Pools.
Joe and Loren
Katonah, NY
–I am a registered architect with offices in White Plains, NY. In 2007, my family and I decided to build a pool at our home in South Salem. I designed the pool, patios and landscape based around the old horse barn on our property. I wanted to convert the barn into a pool house. We hired Surfside Pools almost immediately after meeting with the owners,
Bjorn and Kevin. Their price was fair, but cost was not the only concern. The owner’s confidence, knowledge and experience were evident early on.
During the first day of excavation, an underground riverbed was uncovered. Within an hour the newly excavated shallow end of our pool was filled with water. I feared that we would not be able to build a pool at all. After an hour of discussion, we relocated the pool to the other side of the barn. The original pool location was abandoned, and by lunch time the same day, Bjorn was digging the pool at the new location. We had no ground water issues after that, and the construction continued without further delay. The direct contact with Born and Kevin facilitated the entire process. Any design changes I made were incorporated immediately and without delay into the finished product. They were on the job every morning, and remained on site all day working side by side with their hard working and talented crew.
When the time came to renovate the barn, the decision to hire Surfside was easy. They have a great relationship with the building department, and advised me on material choices to keep the budget low. They brought in their own team of carpenters, plumbers and electricians. The crews worked at an incredible pace, completing the job in record time and within budget. I believe that the finished product is exceptional. I would recommend Surfside Pools to anyone who is interested in a quality experience working with an honest and talented company.
Mark Schulman
Partner
Design, Development Architects
–In 2001 my wife and I decided to install a gunite pool at our home in Waccabuc. We contacted a local pool company for a consultation. After our initial meeting we were unsatisfied, because the pool builder told us that we needed to set the pool up on the slope above our existing patio, and we wanted to keep the pool at the same height. Our two daughters were young at the time, and we wanted to be able to see the pool from inside the house. We also wanted to have a connection between our house, existing patio, and the pool for entertaining. We asked neighbors and friends for advice and three of them recommended the same company – Surfside Pools. After explaining our goals to Bjorn, he agreed with us and proceeded to design and build us a pool and landscape that was exactly what we wanted. Surfside removed the excess soil and built a beautiful stone wall as a backdrop for the pool. Everyone who has come to our home in the last 15 years has commented on how beautiful and natural our pool looks. Surfside Pools has also maintained our pool for the last 15 years. They are always responsive to our needs, and are available any time of the week or weekend for emergencies. We have had no issues with the pool at all. It still looks just as good as it did when it was first completed. We have been able to watch our daughters grow up enjoying the paradise that Surfside Pools created for us at our home. We highly recommend Surfside to anyone building a pool.
Mike
Waccabuc, NY
–We purchased an 18 acre estate in South Salem, NY in 2004, that came complete with a beautiful gunite pool set into an idyllic, natural landscape. The pool had been designed and constructed several years prior for the original owner by Surfside Pools. At the closing we were introduced to Kevin Rafoss, the owner of Surfside Pools, who had been maintaining the pool since it was new. We hired Surfside Pools to continue with the care of our pool. We couldn’t be happier. The quality of their service is outstanding, and they are always available for emergency service calls or advice. Surfside Pools uses natural products in the care of our pool and they maintain an environmentally friendly company. We have recommended them to family and friends. In 2014 we retained Surfside Pools to remove and rebuild our bluestone patio which had been installed in sand and had settled. Their masonry crew did an outstanding job. In 2015 we hired Surfside to renovate and replaster our pool. The work was completed on time and within budget. The finished product is wonderful. The new color is exactly what we wanted, and blends in organically with the existing landscape. Our pool looks brand new! Our children and grandchildren love it. We would recommend Surfside without hesitation.
Robert
South Salem, NY
–In 2009 my wife and I bought a house in Katonah, NY. We retained the services of a local architect and landscape architect to design the renovations on our home and the pool and landscape that we wanted for our new family. We were given the names of few local pool contractors to interview for the job. When I met Bjorn from Surfside Pools I knew he was the choice for us because of his character and confidence. We hired Surfside Pools to build our pool, which included an Automatic Safety Cover, and to install the storm water management system required by the town. During the first day of excavation Surfside uncovered an old and very active farmers drain that was draining the entire area above our pool directly through our pool site. They addressed the situation very quickly, and since moving the pool location was not an option, they walked me through the steps necessary to mitigate the very serious ground water situation. Although it increased the costs of building the pool, Surfside completed the pool in time for us to enjoy our first summer in the house. They installed a beautiful bluestone patio around the pool. They were professional, courteous to my family and always attentive to our needs. They continue to service our pool. I would recommend Surfside Pools without hesitation to anyone is thinking about building a pool.
Richard
Katonah, NY
–Our relationship with Surfside Pools began in the spring of 1994. We hired a landscape architect to design our pool and began shopping for a contractor to build it. In time we narrowed it down to three bids. Surfside, in addition to being competitive in their pricing, came highly recommended by a friend. We were impressed with the examples of completed work that they showed to us. What really made a difference for us was the fact that the same person who was selling us the pool was going to be building it. Mr. Rafoss was on the job every day, working side by side with his employees. It shows in the finished product. In all the years since we have had no problems or needed any major repairs. We are very satisfied.
Surfside Pools has also been servicing our pool since 1994. In that time our pool had endured two traumatic floods/ mudslides when the neighbors storm drains above us failed. Surfside Pools remedied the problem both times in a prompt and cost effective manner. They have also done a wonderful job maintaining the pool on a regular basis. I would recommend them without hesitation.
Jeffrey
Pleasantville, NY
–In 1990 we purchased a home on Mt. Holly Road in Katonah, NY. Included on the property was a lovely swimming pool with a hot tub built by Surfside Pools. The previous owner, very pleased with Surfside, suggested we continue with them. We couldn’t be more satisfied that we did. Both Mr. Rafoss and his son Kevin have in these part years provided us with top quality service regarding maintenance and repairs. Plus they are always pleasant to deal with, returning telephone calls promptly (rather rare these days). We highly recommend Surfside Pools.
Diane
Katonah, NY
–Our relationship with Surfside Pools began in 1996. We contacted them to help us with our 1940’s era pool on our 130 year old estate in North Salem, NY. We were losing lots of water and the pool had cracks all over the place. Bjorn came to the house to consult with us and recommended building a new pool. It was a difficult site to work on because the pool was surrounded with mature trees, stone walls, patios, 100 year old formal gardens, and an existing pool house. Surfside Pools maintained the original classical look and feel of the original pool by placing it in the same location and re-using the bluestone to create a new patio. They also added a hot tub and a heater. They did this with no damage to our gardens! The pool has not needed any meaningful repairs since it was installed. Surfside’s maintenance services have been flawless through the years. They have always responded immediately to any emergency calls. I would recommend Surfside Pools without hesitation.
Peter
North Salem, NY
–Surfside Pools has been my “go to ” pool company for the past 30 years. In 1985, they designed and installed my free form pool and stone patios. They sited the pool perfectly in between the large rock outcroppings in our yard. It looks completely natural. The experience of working with them was a complete delight. During all these years, the pool has never needed a major repair. Any wear and tear issues were handled with immediacy and professionalism. My weekly maintenance is done on time, and the pool water is always crystal clear. Phone calls with questions or concerns are returned promptly and follow up is never a problem.
As a local Realtor, Surfside Pools has always been a resource to my buyers. Whether looking at the possibilities a site might have for a pool before purchase, or the actual installation of a pool after closing, my clients have never been disappointed.
Barbara
Bedford, NY
–Please let this letter serve as my unqualified recommendation for the quality and value of the pool construction and device of Surfside Pools of Bedford Hills, NY. As a former resident of Bedford, I was fortunate to have had a pool designed, constructed and serviced thereafter by Surfside Pools and the Rafoss family. The pool turned out beautifully and the workmanship and value couldn’t have been better. As one who had previously had a pool built and serviced by a well known and more expensive Connecticut pool company, in my opinion the quality of the Surfside pool was better and the service provided was outstanding.
Bill
Manchester, VT
I am a realtor in the Northern Westchester area. Surfside Pools constructed my pool back in 1994. My husband and I enjoyed working with them. The pool was completed on time and has been in perfect working order since it was new. I not only recommend them to you, but have also referred them to many of my clients who also have been pleased with the quality of their work.
Janice
South Salem, NY
I have had a working relationship with Surfside Pools for over thirty five years. I met Bjorn from Surfside Pools when I purchased my first home in South Salem. It had a pool built by Surfside Pools for the original owner. In 1990 I moved to Bedford, NY. I interviewed many companies for the pool construction job, but I chose Surfside because of my past satisfaction with their work and the integrity that comes with working with a family owned and operated business. Reputation is everything. I like the idea that the same man helped me design and landscape my pool actually did the construction as well. I serviced the pool for many years myself. Eighteen years ago I hired Surfside Pools to maintain my pool throughout the season. Now I can truly say I have a carefree pool. In 2014 I retained Surfside to renovate and replaster my pool. The new tile and Pebble-Tec they installed are beautiful. My pool looks like it is new. Bjorn and his son Kevin have never been anything short of honest and reliable. They are truly artisans in this field and I would encourage anyone to match their product dollar for dollar, with any other. For my money and peace of mind I would use no other such company. (No I am not a relative, just a very satisfied customer.)
Jeff
Bedford, NY
–In January of 2001, my wife and I began the process of building a gunite swimming pool on our property in Pound Ridge, NY. We met with a number of different pool professionals and received competitive bids. What impressed us most about Surfside Pools was the owner, Bjorn Rafoss’ courtesy and practicality. Unlike the other firms that blindly agreed to build whatever pool we requested, Surfside advised us that the pool we wanted to build was unrealistic and would not meet our family’s needs as our children grew. Additionally, our idea of a pool would adversely affect the resale value of our home if we ever decided to sell it.
Relying on Bjorn and his years of experience, we were able to design a pool that provided what we wanted. The key factor was integrating into the pool design an 18″ deep play area for our two children without compromising its overall appearance. The resulting pool, which balances the play area with a spa, maintains a nice contrast with stone, slate, tile and water. Many friends have commented that our pool is nicer and more enjoyable than many resort pools they have visited on vacation.
Finally, as far as a construction project, Surfside Pools delivers on all promises including timely completion, maintaining budget and allowing us to decide on upgrades and/or changes as project progressed. We encountered ledge rock and Surfside hammered it out cost effectively. Additionally we added a stone wall to visually break up the pool deck from the sloping grass areas of the yard. It was completed at a very fair price level for Westchester County and enhances the overall appearance of the pool.
We are extremely pleased with our swimming pool and whole heartily recommend Surfside Pools. In fact, they would be the only company I would use in the Westchester/ Fairfield County region. If you would like to speak with me ask for my contact information.
Brian
Pound Ridge, NY
My husband and I have known Bjorn and Kevin Rafoss from Surfside Pools for the last 22 years. During this time they have constructed two gunite pools for us. They have renovated our kitchen and two bathrooms. My retail stores in Bedford and New Canaan were completely designed and constructed by Surfside Pools. They restored the masonry patios, walls and steps at our hundred year old home in Bedford.
Surfside Pools was the last of six companies we interviewed for the construction of our first pool in North Salem in 1994. What set them apart from everyone else was the fact that Mr. Rafoss would be the one doing the work with his crew from start to finish. This has also been the case for all the additional projects he has completed for us.
Every project that Surfside Pools has undertaken has come in on budget and on time and in some instances ahead of the finished date. The quality of their work, as well as the materials used are consistently the very best.
Their integrity, commitment to quality and dedication to their craft is unparalleled. I have the very highest regard for the Rafoss family and would recommend them and their company for any project. If you require any additional information ask for my contact information.
Dina
Bedford, NY
–Surfside Pools designed and built a 20′-0 x 50′-0 pool with automatic cover and attached spa at our weekend home in Bedford, NY during the summer of 2000. The pool is highly satisfactory and the water deliciously clean. Surfside Pools installed high quality, energy efficient equipment to run the pool and the same equipment is still running today. The bluestone coping and patios around the pool and spa were perfectly installed and beautiful. We enjoy the pool with the family every summer. Surfside Pools has done a great job maintaining the pool, and is always available to check on the house or pool for us when we can not because we live in Manhattan. I highly recommend Bjorn and Kevin Rafoss and Surfside Pools to anyone.
Victor
Bedford, NY
In 1988 we hired a large Connecticut based pool company to build a pool for us at our weekend home in South Salem, NY. It is a 20′-0 x40′-0 gunite pool, and originally had black tile and a brick patio. However, within five years, many of the black tile around the edge had fallen off and the brick on the patio had buckled or exploded. A leak developed somewhere, which no one could find. We muddled along for a few years and then decided we needed a change. We asked some friends for advice and they recommended Surfside Pools. They were very pleased with Surfside’s courteous and prompt care.
We hired Surfside Pools to investigate the leak and rebuild our pool. They found the leak in a broken pipe under the patio and repaired it. They removed our patio and reinstalled it properly, along with retiling and replastering our pool. We couldn’t have been happier. Surfside Pools has been helpful in a personal way, and have anticipated our concerns in taking care if our pool, offering creative solutions or ideas, and not waiting to be asked to do things that needed to be done. (Last spring for instance, they called to let us know that they had opened our pool, since that was the week that we usually request, even though we had forgotten to call them. Since we are weekend residents, it is especially important to have people we can trust to be there quickly, and to take care of problems. Luckily, and not surprisingly, we have had no problems since the pool was renovated by Surfside. The tiles have not fallen off. The patio has not buckled. We are especially pleased with the new decking around the pool, which they suggested to us and planned out for us.
We would most certainly recommend Surfside Pools. They are a family run operation, who are easy to deal with, courteous, and well informed. It is quite a different experience to work on every level with the people who will actually do the work on the pool, rather than dealing with a large company with fragmented divisions.
Alexandra and Frederick
South Salem, NY
I am a New York City Architect and my wife was a landscape designer. In 2001 we retained Surfside Pools to construct a swimming pool and terrace at our home in Pound Ridge, New York. We worked very closely with Bjorn and Kevin to design the pool. Surfside did an excellent job in realizing our design, addressing difficult field conditions and meeting our budget and schedule. They continue to provide pool maintenance.
I would highly recommend Surfside as your pool contractor. If you have any questions please feel free to contact me as a reference.
James Harb
Owner
James Harb Architects
New York, NY
Kevin, I just wanted to let you know what a great job you and your company did with our pool. As you know, we had an older gunite pool that your company built in 1995 and serviced. Last Spring (2015) we consulted with you regarding improving the appearance of the pool. Well I must say you were spot on with your recommendations. The new Plaster and Tiles look great! Everybody thinks we just built a new pool.
Rick
Katonah, NY