Building a Swimming Pool requires a significant amount of work. The time to complete this type of project varies depending on the complexity of your pool design, and the additional features you choose to install. Intricate designs with waterfalls, custom lighting, and spas may require additional construction materials and labor. Also, the size of your pool and the landscaping that surrounds it will also impact the overall time to finish.
Once a design has been approved by the homeowner, the excavation phase can begin. This phase involves digging a hole that will serve as the foundation for your new pool.
During this process, the contractor will perform soil tests to assess the composition of the dirt they will be working with. This is important because the various components of the ground (salts, organic matter, clay, sand and gravel) affect how easy it will be to dig and construct the pool. Once the test results have been received and the site has been approved, heavy equipment like a backhoe will be brought in to start digging.
The excavation process is often times messy and can be disruptive to your yard. It is a good idea to plant grass in the areas of your yard that will be affected. In some cases, the excavation process can alter the drainage pattern of your yard and it is a good idea to have a plan for the water and drainage once the construction has been completed and the equipment is removed.
After the excavation is complete, the next step is to set up the steel structure for the pool. This step is vital in ensuring that your pool will be built to the standards required by the city and by national safety codes. It is important to choose a professional contractor with experience in setting up these steel structures.
This is a very exciting phase of the Swimming Pool Construction process as you will be able to see your new swimming pool take shape. This is also the point in time where you will need to decide if your swimming pool will be a gunite or concrete pool.
Once the pool’s form is constructed, shotcrete is then applied. Shotcrete is a thick concrete that is applied in layers to form the walls and floor of your pool. During this process, your choice of pool will determine whether or not you will need to incorporate any structural features like a spa dam or vanishing edge walls that require formwork.
After the pool’s shell is constructed, the plumbing and electrical systems will be installed. This will include the construction of an equipment pad that will house your pump and filter systems. It is a good idea to have any electrical and gas work done during this stage so that it can be done in an organized fashion.
This is a great time to have any decking and coping added to your pool as well. This is the last stage before your pool can be filled and enjoyed!