Knowing the general process behind important property upgrades or improvements is naturally important, and swimming pool construction is a great example. How does the pool construction process work, and what should you be thinking about as a buyer during this process?
At JAL Pools, we’re proud to offer a wide range of swimming pool construction and installation services for clients around Salt Lake City, Park City, and nearby parts of Utah, with pool contractors who are happy to walk clients through any part of the pool construction process they’ll be moving through. Here are the basic stages of the swimming pool construction process, plus some expectations in terms of timeline, homeowner responsibilities, post-construction care, and more.
General Pool Construction Timeline
While the individual pieces here can vary somewhat based on individual factors, here are the general stages of the pool construction timeline to be aware of:
- Consultation: The first step in any pool construction process is consulting with our team to determine your exact needs and desires. We’ll help you choose the right type of pool for your space, plus assist with budgeting and design aspects.
- Design: From here, we’ll move on to the design phase. This will include both a finalized visual representation of your pool area and specific technical details that will inform construction.
- Permitting: Once designs are in place, we’ll work with you to secure the necessary permits from local authorities for building your pool.
- Excavation: Next up is breaking ground on your new pool area. We’ll use heavy machinery to dig out the space needed for your pool and any additional features like decks or patios.
- Build: With the excavation complete, we’ll start building the structure of your pool. This includes installing the steel framework, plumbing and electrical systems, and adding a concrete shell to form the shape of your pool.
- Inspection: Once the structure is complete, a thorough inspection will be conducted to ensure everything is up to code and safe for use.
- Finishing touches: With the pool structure in place, it’s time to add the finishing touches. This could include tiling, decking, landscaping, and installing any additional features like waterfalls or lighting.
Typical Duration and Delays
When it comes to the duration of building a pool, it can vary greatly depending on several factors. These may include the size and complexity of the pool, weather conditions, and any unexpected delays. Some pools may take just a few days to build, while others may take several weeks or even months.
It’s important to keep in mind that delays can happen, especially with outdoor projects. Inclement weather, unexpected site issues, and other unforeseen circumstances may cause construction to be delayed. It’s always a good idea to factor in some extra time for potential delays when planning your pool project.
Homeowner Responsibilities
Let’s break down some general homeowner responsibilities and areas of interest through each stage of the pool construction process:
- Consultation and design: During the initial consultation and design process, it’s important for homeowners to clearly communicate their desires and expectations with the pool contractor. This will ensure that the final design meets their needs and wants. Homeowners are also responsible for obtaining any necessary permits or approvals from local authorities.
- Pre-construction: Before construction begins, homeowners should prepare their property accordingly by removing any obstacles or debris in the area where the pool will be built. They should also make sure that access to this area is clear for workers and equipment.
- Construction: Throughout the construction process, homeowners should regularly check in on progress and address any concerns or questions they may have with the contractor. Be sure to communicate clearly and effectively to ensure the construction is done according to your specifications.
Post-Construction Care and Water Chemistry
Two elements of pool care that are important enough to warrant their own section are post-construction care and water chemistry. After your pool has been built, it’s important to properly maintain and care for it to ensure its longevity and cleanliness.
Post-construction care can include a variety of tasks such as filling the pool with water, balancing and adjusting chemicals, and monitoring the filtration and circulation systems. It’s important to follow any specific instructions provided by your contractor for post-construction care. This may include steps like brushing the walls and floor, vacuuming debris, and checking for leaks.
Additionally, maintaining proper water chemistry is crucial for keeping your pool safe and clean for swimming. Chemicals such as chlorine or bromine are used to disinfect the water and keep it free of harmful bacteria. pH levels should also be regularly monitored to ensure they fall within a recommended range (typically between 7.2-7.8). Testing kits can be purchased at most pool supply stores to easily check in on your chemical levels.
At JAL Pools, we’re here to help with all your pool construction needs around SLC, Park City and nearby parts of Utah. Contact us today to learn more about any part of the pool construction process, or to get started!
