What to Expect During Your New Pool Construction

Building a pool in your backyard is an exciting and transformative process. Whether you’ve dreamed of lounging by your own custom pool or want a functional space for family fun and exercise, starting a pool construction project can be a thrilling experience. However, like any major home improvement project, it requires careful planning and understanding of what’s involved. If you’re looking into swimming pool construction, particularly in areas like Los Angeles, where the climate is perfect for outdoor living, there are several steps and key elements you should be aware of. Here’s an in-depth look at what to expect when building a pool.

The Initial Planning Phase: Laying the Foundation for Your Pool

Before any digging or construction begins, you’ll spend time laying the groundwork for your pool project. The first stage involves meeting with Los Angeles pool builders, discussing your ideas, and setting a clear vision for what you want. You’ll need to think about the size, shape, and style of the pool you envision. Are you looking for a traditional rectangular design, or do you want a more custom pool with unique features like waterfalls, lighting, and perhaps even a spa area?

This phase is essential as it sets the direction for everything that follows. A consultation with pool installation professionals will involve reviewing your backyard layout, determining where the pool will be placed, and evaluating the soil and terrain. You’ll also need to think about important aspects like pool safety and accessibility. For example, is your backyard pool construction space level, or will modifications be required to ensure the foundation is solid? You’ll also need to consider the practical elements, such as plumbing and electrical systems for pumps, heaters, and lighting.

The design and planning phase will also include acquiring necessary permits. Depending on where you live, such as in Los Angeles, certain regulations may govern pool construction, especially concerning environmental impacts and safety codes. Los Angeles pool builders will typically handle these requirements for you, ensuring your project complies with local laws. You’ll also receive an estimated cost for the pool installation at this point, which will give you a clearer idea of the budget required for your new pool.

The Pool Excavation Process: Getting Down to Business

Once all the planning is complete, it’s time to begin the actual construction of your new pool. The first big step in the pool construction process is excavation. This is when the ground is dug out to create the foundation for the pool. Depending on the size and design of the pool, this stage can take anywhere from a few days to a week. During this phase, the excavation crew will use heavy machinery like excavators and backhoes to remove large quantities of soil and debris.

The depth and shape of the hole will be determined by your pool design. If you’ve opted for a custom pool, this may involve intricate or non-traditional shapes that require more precise digging. As the excavation progresses, you might begin to see the general outline of your pool taking shape. While the process may seem messy, it’s a necessary step to ensure that the pool has a solid and durable foundation. For those wondering what to expect when building a pool, this phase will likely be the most dramatic and visible part of the process.

It’s important to remember that excavation is only the beginning. During this stage, pool installation crews will also lay out any necessary plumbing and electrical systems that are integral to the functioning of your pool. These systems are essential for everything from water circulation to heating and lighting. If you’re considering an affordable pool construction option, discuss these features with your pool builders to ensure that you get the best value for your budget without sacrificing quality.

Pool Structure and Shell Installation: Building the Framework

Once excavation is completed, the next phase in the pool construction process is the installation of the pool shell. The shell is the framework that forms the body of the pool. Depending on your preference and budget, there are different materials available for the shell, including concrete, fiberglass, and vinyl. Concrete is often chosen for custom pools, as it allows for flexibility in terms of design and is known for its durability.

The pool shell is built in stages. For a concrete pool, the process typically begins with the steel rebar installation, which reinforces the structure. After the steel is placed, concrete is poured over it, creating the solid foundation that holds your pool’s shape. For fiberglass pools, the shell comes pre-manufactured and is lowered into the excavated area. Vinyl-lined pools, on the other hand, involve setting up a steel or polymer frame with a vinyl liner.

This part of the project can take a few weeks, depending on the complexity of the design and the materials used. It’s during this phase that you’ll begin to see your custom pool take form. The shell will be shaped according to the approved design, and you’ll be able to visualize the size and contours of your pool. While this is an exciting time, it’s also important to stay in communication with your Los Angeles pool builders to address any potential issues or adjustments that may arise as the structure is being installed.

Finishing Touches: Aesthetic Details and Functionality

Once the pool shell is installed, the final stages of the pool project begin. This includes adding the finishing touches that will make your pool both beautiful and functional. The first part of this phase is the interior surface, which is usually plaster, pebble, or a more high-end finish like glass tiles. This surface will not only give your pool its aesthetic appeal but also provide a smooth, durable surface that holds up over time.

After the interior is finished, the surrounding landscape needs to be completed. You’ll work with the pool construction team to finalize the patio area, pool decking, and any landscaping elements. This might include adding plants, rocks, and other features that enhance the overall appearance of your backyard. You may also choose to install pool safety features, such as a fence or a cover, to comply with safety regulations, especially if you have children or pets.

At this point, plumbing and electrical work will also be completed. This ensures that the pool’s filtration system, pump, heater, and lighting are all functioning properly. Many homeowners opt for additional upgrades at this stage, such as LED lighting, water features like fountains or waterfalls, and automated pool cleaning systems. All these additions help personalize your pool and enhance the experience of having your own backyard oasis.

Pool Startup and Final Inspection: The Pool is Ready

Once all the construction is completed, and all the features are in place, it’s time for the pool startup. This is when the pool equipment is activated, and the pool is filled with water. The pool builders will run the filtration system and check all the plumbing and electrical components to make sure everything is working as it should. Any final adjustments will be made at this point to ensure optimal operation.

Before you can dive into your new pool, there’s typically a final inspection. Local authorities will inspect the pool to ensure that it meets all safety and building regulations. This is particularly important in areas like Los Angeles, where strict regulations govern pool construction. Once the inspection is passed, you’ll receive approval to officially begin using your pool.

Now that everything is up and running, you can start enjoying your new backyard pool! The pool construction process may take several weeks or even months, depending on the complexity of your design and any weather-related delays, but once the job is finished, you’ll have a custom pool that suits your needs and adds value to your home.

Conclusion

Whether you’re building a pool for relaxation or as an entertainment space, understanding the pool project timeline and the stages of the pool construction process will help you stay on track and manage your expectations. By working closely with experienced Los Angeles pool builders and understanding what each phase entails, you’ll be well-prepared to enjoy your new backyard paradise for years to come.

Need Pool Contractors In Los Angeles, CA?

Since 1999, Avanti Pools, Inc. has proudly been your locally owned and operated source for premier custom-designed pools and spas, serving Los Angeles and the surrounding areas with unparalleled quality and service. The experts at Avanti Pools, Inc. are A.P.S.I. certified professional pool builders that hold over 60 years of combined experience specializing in swimming pool and spa design and construction, automatic pool and spa covers, solar heating, self-cleaning pools, and much more. Our area of expertise lies in special engineering on difficult sites, so we are capable and fully equipped to handle even the most challenging of projects. Call the expert pool builders at Avanti Pools, Inc. today!