Imagine it’s 90 degrees outside, the sun is shining without a cloud in the sky and it’s a perfect day to take a swim. Only you don’t have a pool, of course, you could go to the crowded and probably over-chlorinated public pool.
Or you could install your pool in your backyard. It may seem like a long and complicated project if you don’t know the process. But you may be pleasantly surprised with how quickly it can be completed.
That’s why we’ve put together this short step-by-step guide to the pool installation process.
Step 1: Design and Plan
Once you’ve decided to add a pool to your property, the first step is to choose your pool’s design and layout. You should also consider any custom pool additions to the pool that you may want. For example:
- Waterfalls
- Swim-up bar
- Deck jets
- Lights
- Spas
Having pictures of pools you like, or drawings can help you and our professionals get an idea of your dream pool. Also, consider what size pool you want and how deep it should be.
One of our experts can help you decide the best location for your pool. This is an important part of the planning process and won’t be able to be changed once the digging has begun.
Step 2: Excavation
Once you have determined what you want your pool to look like, what shape it should be, and where you want it to be, construction can start. This process begins with a crew digging the hole the pool will be built into.
This can be a bit of a messy process but you will soon see your dream pool start to take shape. There may be excess dirt from the dig, however, this should be graded into your yard before long.
The digging process usually takes around two to three days to be completed. If the crew runs into any issues, it may take a bit longer to complete this step. Some issues they may encounter include:
- Large rocks to be removed
- Groundwater uncovered
- Unmarked septic or water lines
Step 3: Steel Installation
Once the hole has been dug it’s time to start placing the steel rebar. This helps to reinforce the walls and floors of the pool. Steel rebar also gives your pool better resistance to temperature changes and keeps the concrete from cracking in the colder winter months.
It also acts as a guide to keep the dimensions of the pool in check. It also helps keep corrosion from affecting your investment.
Step 4: Plumbing and Electrical
This is by far one of the most important steps of the installation process. The plumbing of the pool is what helps keep the water circulating and clean. If this process isn’t done properly your pool will not function correctly and the water would not be safe to swim in.
Depending on the style and features you’ve chosen for your pool will determine how complicated the plumbing will be. This will also determine how long this step of the process will take. In some cases, it can take up to a week to complete this process.
This is also where any heaters, lights, or electric features will be wired and put into place.
Step 5: Concrete, Shotcrete, or Gunite
This is where the shell of your pool begins to form. Contractors will begin to pump the material and mold it into the shape of your pool. This step requires a sunny day to complete, and dry. So if rain is in the forecast it may be a few days before the process begins.
Once the concrete has been laid and shaped it will take up to a few days to dry. Once it’s completely dried you can move on to the more decorative elements of the project.
Step 6: Tile, Decking, and Coping
The next step in the process is when you will see your pool coming closer and closer to being done. This process involves setting any decorative tile you have chosen, setting up the deck around your pool, and putting the plastic coping pieces into place.
At this stage, if you’ve opted for a vinyl pool liner, this is when it will be installed as well. Overall, this entire stage should take about a week to complete.
Step 7: Fence Installation
In Texas, all pools must have an enclosure of at least 48 inches tall. This is the part of the process where the fence will need to be installed in order to stay up to code.
Step 8: Pool Start-Up
This is the final phase of the pool installation and is nearly ready to throw your first pool party. Technicians will install any final hardware pieces such as the deck jets and other plastic hardware pieces.
This is also where your pool will start to be filled with water. While your pool is filling, the technicians will also start up the filter and pump systems to be sure they are functioning correctly.
After starting up the filter and pumps the chemicals or salt will be added to the water. After a few days of the pump and filter running be sure to test the water to ensure it’s safe to swim in.
More About The Pool Installation
There are some factors that could affect the timeline of your pool installation. This includes other jobs that may be ahead of yours, weather, permit issues, and more. Keep this in mind when planning your installation.
You will not have to be present during most of the process. If there are any instances that you need to be present your contractor will let you know ahead of time.
Set Up Your Installation
We hope this guide to pool installation has answered your questions about what’s involved and how long it will take. If you’re ready to start your own pool installation reach out to schedule your free consultation with us.
