Swimming Pool Planning

In general there are two processed involved in new pool construction.  The first is the planning process, while the second is the actual swimming pool construction process.  However the planning process is the most important step and good planning is directly related to the successful construction of any swimming pool.  In general the planning process includes consultation and permitting.

During the consultation portion of the planning process, a qualified swimming pool contractor will have a designer meet with the client to determine the features the client wants in the pool, in addition to taking detailed measurements of the site.  The contractor will then prepare a design that meets all required zoning ordinances, including set backs from adjacent properties, as well as incorporating the desired features that the client desires.

In addition, sometimes a landscape architect is brought on board as a member of the team to help design an overall hardscape and landscape plan for the property.  The contractor will also prepare a detailed written estimate of the cost to build the pool.  In some cases the contractor and the client will go thru several revisions of the design before the best of is found that meets zoning ordinances, the features desired by the client and the client’s budget.

Once the plan is developed and the contractor is released to begin work on the pool, more detailed plans will be developed, which will need to be submitted to the city or county the property is located in, as part of the requirements to obtain a building permit.  The detailed plans will provide a guideline for the construction of the pool and will demonstrate that the pool is being constructed to the applicable building and zoning codes.  Depending upon the locality of the property, the building permit will be issued upon “approval” of the plans and payment of all fees.  The pool contractor’s representative will have work diligently throughout the permitting process to obtain the permit s quickly as possible.  Once the permit is obtained, the contractor will be able to start construction and a completed pool is weeks away!

Posted on behalf of Somar Pools

Pool Construction Process

The actual construction phase of the swimming pool begins once all necessary permits have been obtained.  The first step in the pool construction process is the excavation of the dirt where the pool is to be located.  The contractor will first verify that there are no existing utilities in the area and then begin the excavation of the soils.  In most cases the soils will be taken offsite for disposal.  The excavation will be in the shape and the depth as shown on the plans.

Once the excavation is complete the required electrical and plumbing work will be performed.  In general, the electrical and plumbing work will be related to pumps, drains, filtration systems and lighting systems within the pool shell.  After the work is complete and inspected, the pool contractor will then install reinforcing steel within the pool shell as shown on the approved plans.  The size and quantity of steel depends upon a number of factors including soil conditions and the size and shape of the pool.

After the structural steel is inspected the contractor then spray a specialized type of concrete, which is called “Shotcrete” against the dirt formed sidewalls.  The concrete will cover the reinforcing steel, as well as the plumbing and electrical work previously installed to create the shell of the pool.  The next step in the process is to install the pool tile at the waterline, as well as the pool coping.   The coping provides a transition from the pool to the pool deck.  Once the coping is complete, the contractor will then apply the finish coat to the pool shell, with many different coatings being available.

At the same time there will be a number of other tasking performed including installation of the pool equipment, pool deck and pool fence along with any other hardscapes.  Typical pool decks include concrete, natural stone, pavers or decorative concrete.

The final step is to fill the pool with water and obtain all required inspections from the appropriate government agencies including zoning, building and health.  Once final approval is obtained, it will be time to enjoy that new pool!

Posted on behalf of Premier Pool Enterprises

Custom Pool Construction

As with practically everything else these days, the advantages of new computer technologies have opened up the realm of possibilities in the area of pool design, as well as building techniques. Pools are no longer either oval or rectangular, or limited to ceramic tile. The possibilities today are practically endless when it comes to designing or building your ideal pool.

Your local swimming pool contractor can custom design your pool to your individual style and specifications, as well as quality craftsmanship. Today’s indoor and outdoor pools can be designed and built  using a wide variety of high quality materials for your choosing. Pool builders can design your pool to begin with a zero depth, wade-in, entry or have an infinity pool where the edge just seems to disappear. Many people are even designing their pools to blend right in with their landscaping water feature, giving their pools the appearance of lazy rivers or grottos with waterfalls or waterslides.

Technology has also made it possible to design and incorporate some of the important maintenance aspects into the features of your pool. For instance, your pool systems can operate on wireless controls from your cell phone or with the use of timers. With pool automation, you can program your pool to monitor PH and sanitizer levels and maintain a certain temperature, while turning some features, like fiber optic or LED lights, on or off. Even your pool covers, hidden at the edge of the pool, can function automatically. Other pool systems such as in-floor cleaning systems, or salt chlorination systems, can also be automated. Be assured that your pool builder can develop an awe-inspiring design that meets your needs, and preferences, as well as your budget.