The process of building a swimming pool is complex and delicate to carry out. Therefore, when someone wants a residential oasis, there are multiple pool construction phases to go through, from the initial design all the way to the finished product. Of course, there are many other steps and details in between. The time frame to complete each pool construction phase has a variety of factors that can impact how quickly each phase will be complete. Some common factors that may lead to an increased time for completion are: rain/weather, building permits, HOA approvals, relocating utility lines, etc.
In this blog, we will walk you through the inground swimming pool construction process, step by step.
Measuring, Marking and Digging
The initial steps to start building a swimming pool is to measure the area, mark it and, then, dig the cup. However, before all that happens, you need a design from an expert as well as all plans to go through the auditing process. Once a client approves the layout, the next step is for the company to request building permits. Acquiring permits can take a long or short time depending on the city you are building in as well as the time of the year. After the agency issues the authorization, then, the construction process can begin.
The first step in building a pool is to measure and mark the area where the swimming pool goes according to the layout supplied by the designer. After laying out the pool, we proceed to excavate and create the cup of the pool. Surprises can arise during this first phase. Sometimes, a large rock can appear, or a water pipe. It all depends on the situation. Once the hole has been dug, it’s time to compact the soil to improve the base and get it ready for the next step.
Installing the Steel Structure
Once the hole has been dug, we must create the pool’s steel structure. The steel structure will provide a better/stronger shape to the walls and the floor of the oasis. Steel structures are best since they are more flexible and give you more options with custom-made designs.
Installing the Plumbing and Electrical Systems
After the steel structure is in place, it is time to set up the pipes and wires that will make everything function.
The plumbing system includes making space for skimmers, drainage and placing the pipes. Remember, the pipes will have to go through the property to reach the pump and filter systems.
It is also a great time to place wires, electric boxes and other materials to make the filter and heating systems work correctly, as well as any light system for the swimming pool at this phase of the construction
The construction company must provide you a licensed plumber and electrician to do the job. Do not cover the wiring and pipe systems until a building inspector checks and approves the work.
Setting Equipment
The next step would be to place the filtering and heating systems in a specified area. There should be, at least, one water pump, a water filter, and a pool heater or heat pump (if you have a spa or want to heat your pool’s water). It is crucial to have an experienced pool builder to install the equipment properly.
Time to Apply the Concrete (Gunite)
Once the steel structure, electric and plumbing is in place, then it’s time to apply gunite.
Nowadays, there is a faster way to apply using the gunite technique. The gunite goes on the structure’s walls and floor by using a large hose. While it’s wet, we will smooth the gunite and shape it, in areas like steps or curves so, once dry, the oasis will have a real consistency and ultimate strength.
Tile & Coping
After the gunite has dried, we are now ready to add your selected tile & coping to your pool. Coping is the capstone installed around the perimeter of your pool. There are many different coping options to choose from (check out our recent blog about coping).
Decking
Once your tile and coping has been set in place and leveled, we will begin to get your deck ready to be built. Depending on the type of deck you wish to add to your oasis this process will differ. Choose decking options from deck coating, pavers, travertine, flagstone and more.
Plaster
Plaster is the last step in the construction of your pool. The plaster givers your pool’s structure a waterproof finish that will keep the water in the pool. Choose between adding a pebble plaster (available in a variety of different colors) or an all tile interior surface.
Pool School
Last, but not least, after the pool is filled with water, we will send out one of our expert technicians to visit you at your home to go over and teach you about the operation of your new pool. Once your swimming pool is ready and functioning correctly, proceed with your desired landscaping and decorating.
Now that we brought you the phases of the construction of a swimming pool, keep in mind that an oasis is not only for a large property; it has the versatility to fit in any space with the right design that is fitting for your home. Did we also tell you that it can increase the value of your property?
Get ready to convert your backyard from ordinary to extraordinary with Platinum Pools. Call us at 281.870.1600 (Houston), 409.898.4995 (Beaumont), or 361.576.0183 (Victoria), and let us turn your backyard into an at-home resort.
Happy Thanksgiving from all of us at 