Phases of the Pool Construction Process
If you’ve been thinking about making the ultimate addition to your family home, you might be wondering what the process of installing a pool into your backyard is like. Many fret that this process is long and drawn-out, leaving your yard a mess for months on end, but this isn’t true!
Here is a quick overview on the phases of pool construction that can help you envision what it will be like when you have your dream pool installed.
What Are the Main Phases of Pool Construction?
Most custom pool projects move through several key stages, including design and permitting, excavation, structural framing, gunite application, plumbing and equipment installation, decking, interior finishes, and final startup. The exact pool construction timeline can vary depending on the design, weather conditions, and site preparation requirements.
Step 1: Site Preparation and Excavation
After you and your pool construction team have finalized your pool’s design and collected the necessary building permits, the construction process can begin. The site where the watery paradise will be installed is prepared, so that the excavation and installation stages can move along without a hitch. Shrubbery and plant life is cleared, where stakes are put in place, in order to outline the shape of the pool.
After this outline has been put in place, the construction crew now knows the area which needs to be dug out. Initial plumbing is installed during these phases of pool construction, as well as an in-floor cleaning system, if you’ve chosen to take that route. Although this stage may look unfinished at first, the structural phases that follow are where the pool design really begins to take shape.
Step 2: Structural Construction and Equipment Installation
Steel framework is added to shape the pool and to provide it with structural reinforcement. Once the steel is in place, the concrete shell can be applied, and this is where you really start to see your pool come to life. Gunite is a combination of concrete, sand and water and is applied by a professional. It is an efficient process that gives your pool the ultra-sturdy casing it needs. This stage helps form the foundation and structure of a custom pool design.
In addition to adding to the integrity of the structure, gunite will also be used to add steps, benches or other custom features to the shape of your pool. After this concrete mixture is applied, the wooden structure around your pool is removed and the ground is prepared for the installation of the deck. Final plumbing is put in place as well as the necessary equipment in order to keep your pool running and clean.
Step 3: Pool Finishes and Final Startup
Once the concrete of the decking has been poured, stone, pavers or another custom finish can be added in order to give your deck a unique look. These finishing details help tie the pool into the surrounding outdoor living space and overall backyard design.
Tile is placed around the perimeter of the pool and skimmers are put into place. The interior of the pool is water proofed, so that leaking doesn’t occur, and the final finish is installed.
This finish and the hardware for your pool can be chosen from a variety of colors in order to best suit your personal tastes. The pool is finally filled with water, and a service professional runs preliminary tests to ensure that it is safe for swimming. Once you are ready and the weather is warm, you can jump right in and splash your way through the summer!
Ready to Start Your Pool Project? Contact Tampa Bay Pools
At Tampa Bay Pools, the average pool construction timeline typically ranges from two to four weeks depending on the scope of the project, weather conditions, and custom features included in the design.
If you are interested in having your dream pool installed before the summer hits, contact us today to learn more about how we can help make that dream come true!
FAQs
How long does pool construction usually take?
Pool construction timelines vary depending on the complexity of the project, weather conditions, permitting, and custom features, but many projects take several weeks from excavation to final startup.
What is the first step in pool construction?
The first stages of pool construction typically include site preparation, layout marking, excavation, and initial plumbing installation.
What happens after gunite is applied?
After the gunite shell is completed, crews typically move on to plumbing, equipment installation, decking, tile work, and interior finishes.
When is decking installed during pool construction?
Decking is typically installed after the pool shell and major plumbing work are completed, but before the final interior finish and startup process.