Having an in ground swimming pool in the back yard can be a great investment, especially as it relates to the years of fun and enjoyment you and your family will have and the memories you’ll be creating.
But completing such a project is anything but a simple endeavor, and deciding to actually install a swimming pool is not a decision that should be made lightly.
There are many, many steps that need to be completed on the way to making your dream of a backyard swimming pool an actual reality. A special thanks to Sanchez Pools, a custom pool builder out of San Antonio Texas for providing us with the entire process.
Let’s take them one step at a time…
Project Design and Proposal. To get started, you’ll need to schedule a meeting with a professional and discuss what it is you’re actually hoping to build. This includes things like the design and layout of your pool, landscaping, decking, location of utilities, positioning and several other items.
Permits and Approvals. Next, you’ll need to acquire the necessary permits before you can begin the actual project. And they can be many, ranging from electrical and gas utility hookups, to easement variances and many others. And don’t forget that all plans must comply with local and state building codes.
Pool Layout. Once you’ve obtained your permits, you can begin on the actual project. This begins with establishing the layout of your pool, which you should do hand-in-hand with the professional who will be in charge of the project.
Excavation. Time to bring in the heavy equipment needed to, in simple terms, create the hole that will be needed for the installation of the pool. This could be done quickly, or take a little longer depending on the size and shape of your pool.
Structural Steel. The pool shell will now need to be reinforced with rebar, placed both horizontally and vertically. The depth depends on how deep the pool is going to be once complete.
Stub Out. Rough plumbing is done immediately following steel installation. This includes the installation of several elements, including drains, skimmers, light niches and others.
Pool Floor. The pool floor consists of concrete and the walls of the pool consist of a mixture of sand and cement. All of this will be installed during this step.
Tile and Coping. The next thing to accomplish involves choosing and installing a decorative tile for your pool. This can be any of several textures, materials and colors, whatever happens to fit your tastes.
Plumbing. You’ll want to install the plumbing in a way that will give you the best circulation and filtration for crystal clear water and ease of maintenance. This can take some time, but you want to get it right and avoid future problems.
Equipment Setup. This includes items like water feature pumps and other optional equipment, all of which should be handled by a qualified professional.
Electrical and Gas. You’ll now need to run electrical conduits for pool lights and equipment. Gas lines to the pool heaters can also be run during this phase.
Deck Layout. The deck should fit well with the pool layout and design, and you’ll want to accomplish the installation of your deck during this step. There are several choices in regards to materials, including bricks, stone, pavers and more.
Pool Finish. The pool interior is coated with your choice of materials, from standard white to others that are much more extravagant. When this is finished, you can finally begin filling the pool with water.
As you can see, actually installing an in ground swimming pool can be quite the undertaking. But done properly and with long-term use in mind, it’s certainly a worthwhile endeavor that can bring you and your family many years of happiness.