15 Steps To Pool Construction
You will have a few weeks, (check how many) from the time you sign your swimming pool contract to the day actual swimming pool construction starts. During this time we will be pulling construction permits, doing CAD drawings, checking for public utilities, and getting things ordered and staged for construction.
Phase 1: Fence removal
If there is not a gate or open access to your backyard, your fence must be removed. Check with your home owners association if you need any kind of written permission.
Phase 2. Pre Grade
If you have any grass, vegetation or hardscape to be removed this will be done first. It is called a pre grade. The grass will have to be dug out at least 4” to 6” deep. Rock covering the area where the swimming pool will be must be removed prior to layout and excavation.
The reason for pre grade is to have a clean slate for layout.
Phase 3. Layout
The outline of your swimming pool will be spray painted on the ground per plan by a company representative.
This is the BEST time to make any changes or alterations to placement of the swimming pool or spa. Be sure this is what you want. This is your LAST chance to move the pool! Your approval of the layout should be made before the company starts excavation.
Phase 4. Excavation
The swimming pool is excavated or dug. The actual hole will be 6” larger than the finished dimensions of the pool in all directions. Forming material will be placed around the outer edge of the pool or spa.
Dirt removal will be done the same day of excavation. If you want any dirt left on site be sure to arrange where it should be dumped and how much BEFORE excavation. Your pool price is generally based on a standard dig. Expect to pay more for the heavier equipment, longer time to dig and higher dumping fees. We will provide you with quotes from our regular excavators.
Phase 5. Plumbing and Equipment Set
Non-corrosive schedule 40 PVC with schedule 40 fittings on the plumbing should be used throughout the pool. A vacuum breaker should be installed at the water source. The plumber will place and set the equipment per your plan.
Phase 6. Steel
3/8-diameter steel reinforced rebar is placed throughout the pool structure. There will be rebar on the bottom of the pool, up the sides around the skimmer, and into the bond beam. Concrete spacers insure the steel is not against the wall or the floor of the pool. This system allows shotcrete or gunite to be evenly distributed under and above the steel. We professionally engineer your pool to insure the structural integrity for the life of the pool.
Phase 7. Electric
Wiring will be run from your electric panel to the equipment, then from the equipment to lighting in the pool. We ensure that all electric wiring and grounding exceeds National Electric Code standards. Ground fault interrupter devices will be installed for protection against electric fault.
Phase 8. Inspections
Throughout construction, detailed inspections will be performed by your project manager or superintendent. At this phase of your pool construction local building authorities are also required to make an inspection. We will contact local authorities to schedule inspections. Your coordinator will also notify you before inspection so gates are unlocked for access. We check the results the day of the inspection to keep things rolling without delays.
Phase 9. Shotcrete
Concrete is pneumatically applied to create the pool shell and bond beam. The strongest pool shell has a 6” wall and 6”floor with an 8” transition. Water curing is critical and must be done by spraying the pool shell with water up to four times a day for four days during warm and hot temperatures. This is done to prevent premature curing and to minimize shrinkage cracks in the shotcrete shell.
Phase 10. Decorative elements
Now we can start on making your pool truly beautiful by installing features such as natural rock waterfalls, shimmering tile, fountains, and accented lighting. All of this can be done to accent the natural surroundings, creating a welcoming and revitalizing setting. We can also install decking at this time made from concrete, brick pavers, stone, or many other materials. You may choose to have a decorative finish (Spay-Crete) applied to the concrete, which would also be done at this time. The process takes one day in the summer and two days in the winter to set up.
Phase 11. Clean-Up
All construction debris will be cleaned up in both the interior and the exterior of the swimming pool. Any tire tracks, dips where trenches were dug will be filled in. Clean-up is a preparation for the plastering phase and will be coordinated just prior to the plaster date.
This is also when your fence can be put back in place. Many cities in southern Florida have pool barrier requirements to deter children from entering the pool. The recently passed Virginia Graeme Baker Act calls for new standards for pool safety, and Gold Star Pools will work with you to ensure your pool is as safe as it is fun.
Phase 12. Pre Plaster Inspection
This inspection by the city authorities will require that all of the barrier requirements be met prior to scheduling the inspection. Someone will need to be present at the inspection so that the inspector can confirm the requirements in the house are met and approved. We will schedule the inspection. Once passed, the interior finish can be applied.
Phase 13. Interior Finish
Plaster is hand troweled to a non-slip waterproof finish. Gold Star Pools recommends Diamond Brite and PebbleTech finishes. Immediately after the finish is applied the crew will begin filling the pool and/or spa.
Phase 14. Start Up
When your pool is complete and filled to the proper level, we will adjust all pool checmicals, startup equipment, and test for proper function. At this point all final details will be completed. We will instruct you on the equipment and give you a demonstration of your new swimming pool.
Phase 15. ENJOY
Phew, now that it's complete, time to relax and enjoy your backyard escape!