Pool Construction Process

The pool is laid out using stakes and forms. The form represents the outer edge of the pool shell.  The forms must not be disturbed, as they represent the exact elevation, location, size, shape, and position of the finished pool. The excavation process is now ready to begin.   We attempt to keep the dust down to a minimum, but it will be dusty, and the heavy equipment is noisy. We suggest you keep all windows and doors closed during this phase.  

This is the major step in your construction project. There are many large trucks on site the day of gunite.  It’s exciting to watch, but you will want to keep all nearby doors and windows closed throughout the guniting operation. It is during this phase that the stairs, benches, light niches, etc., will be set in place.  Do not become alarmed if any water accumulates in the bottom of the pool.  Forms will be stripped, any necessary backfilling performed, and preliminary deck grading will take place.

 At this time we will be placing dirt back around the pool structure and washing the dirt in and compacting the trenches for plumbing, electrical, gas, etc. will be installed prior to deck. Once plumbing is completed it will be pressure tested for leaks. After the pipes are pressured tested the dirt will be placed on top of them to be compacted again for the deck.

A 6″ band of tile is now applied to the top inside edge of your pool. This allows easy cleaning at the water line. If tile markers are to be placed on the stairs, they will be done day of plaster. Make sure water and electricity are available for the crew’s use. If your pool is to be edged with coping, field stone or other, our stone mason now installs this finish. Otherwise, the cantilever edge of the deck provides the pool’s top finish. If your pool has a water feature don’t be alarmed when you see a “pile of rocks”. The finish touches are running water and your final landscape.

This is very important because the deck is the entertainment area around the pool. After the layout, take the time to be comfortable with the design. It is not uncommon to place chaise lounges or tables in the laid out area. This process entails large trucks in the road or access. It is very important that all cars are cleared to allow access and that all children are kept out of the area. This is when the project really comes to life. Depending on your choice of decking (plain, exposed aggregate, pavers or stamped) the steps may vary at this time. Exposed Aggregate and Stamped Concrete are multi-day processes, so don’t be alarmed if your deck doesn’t look the right color after it is poured. The expansion joints are saw cut in the stamped pattern, so you may see some hairline cracks.

The mechanical components, including the pump, filter, time clock, automatic cleaner, and heater (if ordered), are installed prior to plaster. If it is our electrician, we will notify him to insure all mechanical equipment is wired prior to plaster. Work relative to pool heating should also be completed now. .