Building a pool is a major decision for a homeowner. The first step is to locate a pool builder or installer near you. The average length of time needed to build a pool from start to finish is eight to twelve weeks.
There are numerous steps to building a pool, and your local pool builder can help walk you through this process. Much of the time is actually in the designing stages versus the building stage.
Your first step is to locate a local pool installer. Generally, this involves a google search. Take the time to look through the websites pictures and designs to see if you like what they have done. Remember to check out Google’s reviews to see how others liked them.
Another great way is to give a shout out on Facebook and ask your friends for recommendations. If you have friends with pools you admire, give them a call. Ask them if they would recommend or not recommend (equally important) their local pool builder.
You can also use an online service such as Home Advisor to locate a pool contractor. It is always advisable to get three estimates whenever you are contracting for home improvements. In addition, you should ask for and follow through on calling references.
When calling references to ask them what type of pool they chose, when the work was done and was it completed on time. Ask if the worker’s behavior was acceptable when they were on your property.
Checking them out with the Better Business Bureau is also a good idea. You can look on their website to see if any complaints have been filed against the company.
This step is easily the longest and can last up to two months. After you have chosen a local pool builder, you will need to focus on design. Hopefully, you have something already in mind, but if not your installer can give you some ideas. Design can be fun with the software 3D models available.
When planning for your pool, the designer will consider the layout of your property and where are the best options for installation. They will consider access to the property, where utility lines are running and how the pool will be positioned.
Permits may also consider barriers and fencing around the pool. At the end of the project, a city inspector may come to verify that ,the pool area is safe.
Permits will vary according to your state and local codes. Sometimes this is a simple process, and sometimes it may be more complicated. Follow the guidance of the pool installer as they will have lots of experience dealing with these steps.
You may also need multiple permits depending on your local laws. Separate permits for electrical or gas line work may also be necessary. Inspections for work such as footers, electricity, and plumbing may be required depending on your codes.
The length of this step varies and may take anywhere from one to eight weeks. Some municipalities may require you to be present at a planning board meeting or come in to go over paperwork.
Once the permits are in place, you can begin the excavation process. Excavation will be weather dependent. If you live in a tropical area with a lot of rainfall then excavation will be planed for a drier season.
This step only takes a day or two. The process may take longer if the excavator has to navigate around any electric or existing plumbing lines. These lines may have to be rerouted as part of the process. An inspector may be called in to help with that process.
We often do not consider this a crucial step. Each pool needs plumbing and electric. Depending on your pool style this can be rather complex.
First, a steel frame is established. This typically consists of rebar that is run vertically and horizontally. The rebar is what stabilizes and strengthens the walls. Then plumbing and electrical lines are run to meet your design. This step typically takes one to three weeks.
Construction of your pool will depend on what type of pool you have chosen. Pools come in vinyl, gunite, plaster, and fiberglass.
Vinyl pools are the least expensive but have the shortest “shelf life”. The vinyl liner needs to be replaced every ten years or more often if it becomes badly torn.
A fiberglass pool is long lasting and easy to care for. They are more expensive and have limited design options.
Vinyl and fiberglass pools are quicker to install. They come premade from the factory, and they just need to be placed properly and adhered to the frame.
A gunite pool is a bit more complex. They are a mix of concrete and sand that require specially trained professionals to install. The concrete is sprayed on to the frame in a thickness up to six inches.
It then needs up to a week to cure properly. The homeowner may need to go out and spray the gunite with a water hose to promote proper curing. Gunite pools have an attractive tile finish (something you would have chosen in your design phase).
Choosing saltwater or chlorine will also affect your pool installation. Salt water pools have a bit more specialized parts and may add some time to the project.
Construction takes into consideration the plumbing and the electric for your pool. There is more to the plumbing than just filling the pool with water! The pool must have drains, skimmers, and filters.
Depending on how complex your surrounding area design is the landscaping can take up to three weeks. Landscaping may include decking, landscaping, dining area and lighting.
Many people chose concrete or pavers for the area immediately surrounding the pool. Pavers can be brick, tumbled travertine or concrete. However, you can mix it up and intersperse that with wood as well.
Outdoor living areas are popular to add next to your pool. Your pool contractor can add electric and gas lines that are being installed for the pool can easily be run to a future outdoor kitchen.
As you know, your pool was a significant investment. You want to learn steps to take care of your pool. Protect your investment with a quality pool cover and knowledge about when you should change the filters.
At this stage, your local pool contractor should show you how the outside plumbing works and how to maintain your pool’s water. This equipment will house pumps and filters. Also if you have a salt pool, you will have specialized equipment to control the salt and chlorine.
Aftercare is an important part of your package. Make sure that your pool installer is willing to answer calls from past clients should there be any problems or questions.
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