This phase of swimming pool construction is filled with anticipation and excitement. Excavation involves the process of digging and shaping the swimming pool. To begin, the excavation crew carries out a pre-grade procedure. Pre-grade involves clearing the designated pool area and leveling the ground. During this stage, the crew outlines the final shape of the pool on the ground and secures the pool's perimeter with stakes and forms for structural support. The duration of excavation varies depending on several factors, including access, soil conditions, and the overall size and depth of the pool. Nowadays, most pools can be excavated within 1 to 3 days. It's important to note that during excavation, the pool will appear larger than its final dimensions, as it is dug 2 feet wider and 2 feet longer to accommodate the concrete and steel components of the construction process.

Once the tile installation is complete, the next phase of your swimming pool project involves adding the decking material, which can be concrete, spray deck, pavers, tile, stone, or other options. For most pool owners, concrete or spray deck are popular choices due to their durability and cost-effectiveness compared to alternatives like stamped concrete, flagstone, tile, stone, or pavers. The installation of the decking typically involves a minimum of 2-3 days for forming and finishing, followed by an additional 3-4 days before applying the spray deck, if applicable. However, the timeline may vary depending on the chosen surface material, requiring multiple days or even weeks for completion. Once the decking is in place, it is time for your pre-plaster inspection or final inspection, depending on the requirements of your municipality.

After the major construction work is finished, the next step is to clear the pool site of any remaining excess materials. Any empty boxes and debris will be properly disposed of at the appropriate facilities, ensuring that your backyard is no longer in a state of disarray but ready to be enjoyed. With the cleanup completed, the final task is to initiate the pool start-up process. This crucial step involves ensuring that all equipment is functioning properly and that the swimming pool is properly balanced with the necessary chemicals. This ensures that your pool is in optimal condition and ready for you to dive in and enjoy.

Following the gunite installation, the next step involves placing the waterline tile and any desired rock or boulders in your pool. The waterline tile serves the important purpose of providing an easily maintainable surface at the waterline. Adding rock or boulders creates a natural "swimming hole" ambiance and is particularly beneficial for waterfalls and jump rocks. In pools with a contemporary or classic design, tile is integrated into the overall aesthetic. It is applied not only at the waterline but also on raised walls or water features, enhancing the visual appeal. It's important to continue watering the pool shell, making sure to water underneath the installed tile as well. This process helps with the curing and overall integrity of the pool structure. Please note that in some cases, a pre-deck inspection may be required as part of the construction process.

Once we reach this stage, we will gather all the essential engineering documents and proceed with permit applications from the local authorities. Depending on your specific community requirements, there might be a need for you to seek approval from the Home Owners Association (HOA). Once we successfully obtain the building permit, construction will shift into high gear, marking the exciting start of the project.

Until this point, your backyard may appear chaotic, with various trenches and a prominent hole adorned with a criss-cross arrangement of rebar. The next phase, known as gunite, involves the application of concrete that forms the shell of your pool. A crew will arrive and use a hose to skillfully spray the concrete, gradually giving your pool its near-final appearance. During this phase, the installation of benches and the completion of pool walls and floor will also take place. This stage of construction will require your active involvement. Over the next 7 to 10 days, you will be responsible for regularly hosing down the pool shell two to three times a day with water. This process aids in the curing of the gunite or shotcrete, contributing to the pool's overall durability and strength. You will be amazed to see how much water the pool structure absorbs during this time, as it undergoes this crucial curing process.

The steel phase involves the installation of reinforcing bars, commonly known as rebar, in the precise shape of the pool. A skilled rebar contractor will meticulously secure the steel using bailing wire, following a grid pattern specified by the structural engineer. The time required for this process may vary depending on factors such as the pool's size, shape, and the presence of raised walls or bond beams. Typically, a proficient crew will complete the rebar tying in approximately one day. Once the steelwork is in place, we will proceed to the first inspection by the municipal authorities. An inspector will visit your residence to ensure that the swimming pool meets all the necessary code requirements and that everything is accurately executed according to the specifications. This inspection serves as an important step to ensure compliance and quality assurance.

Once the pool excavation is complete, the focus shifts towards the rough plumbing and electrical work. This crucial stage involves digging trenches for the necessary pipes and conduits to ensure the proper functioning of your pool. Depending on the project, the rough plumbing and electrical tasks may be divided into multiple phases, or they may be performed simultaneously. During this phase, various components will be installed, including suction and return lines, water-feature lines, vacuum cleaner lines, fill lines, solar inlet and return lines, gas lines for pool heaters, as well as provisions for future barbecues and fire-pits. Additionally, the electrical service line will be set up to power the pool and its associated equipment. Typically, this phase requires around 2 to 3 days for completion and can be carried out before, during, or after the steelwork stage.

At this stage, anticipation grows as we approach the final phase of your swimming pool construction. Plastering is a crucial step that provides a waterproof surface for your pool. There are various options available, including White Plaster, Quartz, Pebble, and polished surfaces. Depending on the chosen material, plastering can typically be completed within a day. For those seeking a luxurious touch without budget constraints, an all-tile pool surface with Grecian borders is an option. Once the swimming pool finish has been applied, it is time to commence the filling process. The pool will be filled using a regular garden hose provided by the homeowner. This marks an exciting milestone as your pool begins to come to life, inch by inch, with the addition of water.