Building an inground pool with Island Life Custom Pools is a multi-step process that requires careful planning, excavation, and installation. Here’s an overview of the typical process:
1. Planning & Design
Determine Size and Shape: Decide the dimensions and shape of your pool based on your backyard size and preferences. Pools can be rectangular, kidney-shaped, circular, etc.
Choose Material: There are different types of pools, including:
Concrete: Customizable, long-lasting, and highly durable.
Vinyl liner: More affordable but requires replacing the liner every 5-10 years.
Fiberglass: Low maintenance and quick to install, but limited in shape and size options.
Obtain Permits: Check with local authorities to obtain the necessary permits for pool construction. This can vary by location.
2. Excavation
Mark the Area: Surveyors will mark the exact location of the pool on your property.
Excavation: Heavy machinery, such as an excavator, will dig the hole according to the pool’s dimensions. This is one of the most significant and important steps in the construction.
Remove Debris: After excavation, the construction team will clear any remaining debris from the site.
3. Installing Pool Structure
Pool Shell Installation:
Concrete Pools: The shell is created with reinforced steel bars (rebar), and the entire structure is poured with concrete.
Vinyl Liner Pools: The structure is built with a frame, often made from steel or polymer, and the vinyl liner is then installed.
Fiberglass Pools: A pre-fabricated fiberglass shell is delivered to the site and lowered into the excavation.
Plumbing & Electrical: Install the plumbing for water circulation (skimmers, drains, jets) and the electrical system for lighting, pumps, and heaters. This step may also involve running electrical lines to the pool equipment pad.
4. Backfilling and Leveling
Backfill the Pool: Once the shell is in place, the space between the pool and the excavation is filled with sand, gravel, or dirt to provide structural support.
Leveling: The pool’s surface needs to be leveled, and the construction team ensures that everything is aligned correctly.
5. Decking and Coping
Coping Installation: The coping is the material around the pool’s edge, which can be made of concrete, stone, or tile.
Decking Installation: Pool decks are often made of concrete, pavers, or tile, and they surround the pool. This area provides a space for lounging and poolside activities.
6. Interior Finish
Concrete Pools: After the structure is built, the interior is finished with a plaster, pebble, or aggregate finish.
Vinyl Liner Pools: The vinyl liner is stretched and fitted into place.
Fiberglass Pools: The fiberglass shell already comes with a smooth, gel-coated finish.
7. Filling the Pool & Testing
Water Filling: The pool is filled with water, and the plumbing and filtration systems are tested for proper operation.
System Check: Pool systems such as pumps, filters, heaters, and lighting are all checked and adjusted as needed.
8. Final Touches
Landscaping: Surrounding landscaping can be added, including plants, fencing, or retaining walls.
Safety Features: Pool fencing, covers, and alarms may be installed to ensure safety.
Cleaning: The pool is cleaned and prepared for use.
9. Inspection & Approval
Final Inspection: A local authority will typically inspect the pool to ensure it meets all safety codes and regulations.
Approval: Once approved, the pool is ready for use!
Additional Tips:
Budgeting: Be sure to factor in not just the pool itself but also costs for landscaping, permits, fencing, pool covers, and ongoing maintenance.
Timing: The entire process can take anywhere from 6 to 12 weeks, depending on the size and complexity of the pool, weather conditions, and other factors.
Would you like more information on specific steps or tips for the pool design?
Call our team at Island Life Custom Pools at 281-305-8711
