Swimming Pool Installation Dos and Don’ts

There are several things to consider, when planning your swimming pool installation. First of all, you should inquire about local building requirements and obtain all necessary permits. Then you should carefully choose the site for construction. Make sure the pool site is clear of all underground and overhead wires, pipes, etc. There also should be a wide opening for large equipment to reach the site.

Do not construct your swimming pool near large trees because their roots may damage the structure of the pool as they grow bigger. What is more, they will constantly be losing their leaves onto the water. To enjoy every minute spent near your swimming pool, it should be situated in a sunny area, carefully protected from prevailing winds.

If you have enough time and want to save money you can become your own contractor, subcontracting some of the work and doing some of the installation yourself. Some manufacturers even provide their customers with manuals, describing how to install their swimming pools.

However, it is worth hiring an experienced contractor to ensure the job is done the right way. Remember, your in-ground swimming pool is not a place for mistakes. So, when choosing a contractor, do not shop for price, shop for quality. Inquire about your contractor’s track record and ask for a list of references. All swimming pool contractors will assure you that they offer the best quality, often much better than all the other companies. Still, you should spend some time on probing their previous clients to with good insightful questions. Your due diligence may save you thousands of dollars!

Installation time usually depends on the construction type of swimming pool you want to purchase.

Fiberglass swimming pools are the easiest to install. As they are manufactured as a large molded structure, once the excavation is completed, the pool is delivered and installed in one piece. Most often a large crane is needed to move the pool.

Construction time for vinyl liner in-ground swimming pools is usually one to three weeks (this should be discussed with your contractor.) Vinyl liner pools need a framing structure, made of strong, durable materials, installed in a hole in your yard. This structure forms the walls of your pool. The pool floor is usually made of cement or just sand. When the whole structure is installed, it is covered with a vinyl liner.

Concrete and gunite (also shotcrete) swimming pools usually take three to twelve weeks to construct. Such swimming pools are custom-built to your specification. A concrete/shotcrete pool is constructed in several stages and usually requires an experienced craftsman to do the job.

Fountains, waterfalls, lighting, and other water features can considerably increase the aesthetic value of your swimming pool area. So, when discussing the design of your swimming pool with your contractor do not forget to tell them what water features you would like to have.

Finally, have your swimming pool landscaped. This will add considerable appeal to your swimming pool area, turning it into a dream resort.