How It Works
There are numerous factors that homeowners need to take into account before the construction a new in-ground pool. This undertaking is a significant construction project, therefore, this page 'How It Works' will assist with your understanding of what needs to be done in order to avoid unforeseen obstacles or additional expenses. Whether it involves acquiring the necessary permits, coordinating the use of tools, or selecting a location with minimal obstructions, specialized expertise and knowledge are essential to ensure a seamless completion of all tasks.
Furthermore, if your backyard presents any challenging configurations or conditions, these can also contribute to an increase in the final cost. In the event that you are undertaking this project as a do-it-yourself endeavor, there is a possibility that the end result may not meet your initial expectations. Review How It Works and get a better picture of what to expect.
FIRST - Find Pool Type & Size
1. Decide Where To Put Your Pool
Pick out a flat area in your yard that is large enough to have a pool with its surrounding deck. Typically, an in-ground pool needs to be 7 feet away from any structure (ex. House) and property lines. If your yard is not predominately flat then you first need to make preparations to have your yard leveled to grade (this may require retaining depending on the slope).
2. Decide On a SIZE For Your Pool
Take good measurements of your yard including length and width of the determined area. Based on your measurements you can determine what size pool will fit. Try and visualize how your pool area will look with your desired pool, decking, landscaping, etc. Another thing to consider is maintenance and up-keep. The larger the pool the more maintenance. Pick the size that fits you best.
3. Decide On a SHAPE For Your Pool
There are many shapes to choose from that are common and available in all types of pools. For Fiberglass or Vinyl Liner its recommended to pick from the common models.
4. Decide On a TYPE For Your Pool
The types of pools to choose from are fiberglass, vinyl liner and gunite.
SECOND - Find out about Pricing
1. Find your PRICE RANGE
Look through approximate pricing based on pool size, pool type and construction type.
2. Get a QUOTE on an Order
THIRD - Put Down a Deposit & Get Scheduled
1. Commit
Finalize the plan for your pool project, sign the pool contract and put down your deposit.
2. Get Scheduled
FOURTH - Permitting Process
1. Permit w/ City
Most cities require a pool construction permit. Usually there will be a permitting fee.
2. Building Inspections
Key inspections are: underground plumbing (pressure test) and electrical bonding.
FIFTH - Pool Install
1. Excavation
A whole bunch of dirt is coming out of the ground for your pool so its going to get all over and around where your pool will be. If the dirt is being hauled off there will be a trail made from the skid steer going back and forth hauling it. A lot of times all new landscaping will be required.
2. Electric & Gas Work
Electrical wiring is ran to the equipment pad along with gas piping if you have a gas heater.
3. Pool Shell
The pool shell is either built in place or set with a crane. Custom concrete (gunite) pool shells have to be constructed with steel rebar and concrete. Fiberglass pool shells are made in a factory and arrive on a trailer. Vinyl liner pool shells are built with side wall panels and concrete floors.
4. Plumbing
The pool is typically plumbed with schedule 40 PVC. The plumbing requires trenching from the pool to the pool equipment pad. Pool equipment plumbing is all above ground.
5. Backfill
Backfill and ground compaction prep work.
6. Decking
Typically are pools have travertine coping edges with concrete side walks. There are many other types of decking available such as brick pavers, tile and stone.
6. Pool Surface
Custom concrete pools have plaster. Vinyl pools have vinyl liners. Fiberglass pools have gel coat.
7. Water
Water is poured in to fill the pool. Most of the time your garden hose is used to fill the pool. Sometimes fire hydrants are used to fill the pool. The pool euipment will sanitize the pool water.
SIXTH - Fencing, Landscaping, etc.
1. Fencing, Landscaping, etc.
Along with your pool you may need to have fencing done. Landscaping is something that a lot of people have done after there pool. There may also be other projects that you need done as well.