Building a swimming pool requires a unique set of technical and managerial skills. It’s a multi-faceted project that involves the stamina of a ditch digger and the heady contemplations of an architect combined with the crunchy mathematics of an engineer. Professionals who make this their career focus on continuing education and attend seminars to raise the bar for the industry as a whole. They may also seek certification from national and state pool and spa organizations to show that they follow best construction practices.
A good Pool Builder will work to keep you involved throughout the process, from idea conception to completing the last detail. They will listen to your concerns and provide you with options that allow you to customize the design of your new pool. They will use technology to help you visualize what your finished pool will look like and be willing to go over even the smallest details with you.
Before your project begins, they will usually perform a soil test to gauge the composition of the ground. This helps them determine if there are any salts, organic material, clay, sand or gravel in the ground that would inhibit digging conditions. They’ll then mark out the shape of your pool in your yard and bring in excavators or front loaders to dig it. This phase will leave your backyard looking like a construction site for quite some time. They’ll either haul off the dirt or, if you choose to keep it, they’ll put it in a pile where it will be used to construct your pool deck and landscape.
Once the steel is installed – sometimes during or before this step, depending on the schedule – plumbers will install skimmers, returns, cleaner lines, and drains. They may also install the bonding wire, electrical connections and hang the pool lights into the wall niches. They’ll prep the pool for the Gunite crew, who will then pour and sculpt concrete over the steel reinforcement bars to create your pool.
The Gunite crew will then finish your pool with plaster, which serves as a waterproof layer that protects the shell and steel. This is when your pool will really start to look like a swimming pool! They’ll add a decorative tile finish, water line markings and any other necessary finishing touches.
Once the plumbing is done, electricians will test the pool’s system. Then it’s time to get ready to swim! If you want a pool that’s energy efficient, easy to maintain and has all the bells and whistles that you can imagine, a professional pool builder is the way to go. They know the paperwork involved, and can expedite the process to make your dream a reality sooner rather than later. They can even help you finance your project, and offer a variety of payment plans to suit your budget. They should also be familiar with the local regulations regarding pool construction and be able to guide you through the process smoothly.