14 Reasons To Select Unique Custom Pools

Pentair, IntelliFlo Variable Speed Pump, Unique Landscapes

At UNIQUE Custom Pools we are committed to providing our clients with the highest quality construction process and workmanship in the industry. In addition, we are committed to offering an equally high level of communication so that clients always know the status of their project and what to expect in the coming phases of construction. Our 14 step custom pool construction process sets up apart from other contractors from day one and ensures that our clients receive nothing but the highest quality finished product. To learn about our 14 step process in more detail, schedule a free consultation with one of our design specialists.

STEP 1- DESIGN, PLANNING & PERMITTING

Prior to construction, your new pool is reviewed by our design and construction team, CAD Department, Engineers and the UNIQUE Owner, Chris Griffin. All of the construction notes are carefully put on the plans for permitting and for use by our crews. Permits are then obtained. This process can take anywhere from 1 day to 4 weeks, depending on the municipality.

STEP 2- LAYOUT

With engineering and permitting completed, all of the design plan is transposed to your yard. This allows homeowners the opportunity to see the scale and location in their yard before any excavation begins. Final changes and alterations can be made at this time. This process can normally be completed in just a few hours.

Pool Layout Plan — All of the details of your pool design and the services for your pool will be painted on the ground, to scale, for you to review.

STEP 3- EXCAVATION

This is the first step in the actual construction process and often involves the use of heavy equipment to dig the pool and remove the excess soil from your property. This process can range from 1 to 3 days in most cases.

Bobcats, backhoes and other equipment is brought into your yard to dig your pool and remove the excavated soil in a timely manner.

STEP 4- PLUMBING

Plumbing is one of the most critical aspects of UNIQUE pools. Because our primary focus is over-sized plumbing, hydrology, and pump efficiency, we take careful precautions during this phase. Pictures are taken throughout this phase of construction for documentation purposes. Plumbing most custom pools can be completed in 1 to 2 days.

The plumbing is run into the excavated area that will become your pool and stubbed up. These pipes will later be used for your in-floor cleaning system as well as the drains.

All of the pipes are then run to the pool equipment in one centralized location for easy access and maintenance

STEP 5- STEEL

The structural integrity of the pool is defined here in the “STEEL” phase of the project. The rebar shell of the pool is made of 3/8″ rebar at every 12″ on center or more if required by engineers. UNIQUE uses additional steel in all of our pools with our 5-bar bond beam and center shell reinforcement for longer and larger pools. The steel phase normally lasts for 1 to 2 days.

This rebar mesh system is what provides the structural integrity that allows UNIQUE pools to last a lifetime.

STEP 6- ELECTRICAL

During the electrical phase, all of the electric service and lines needed to operate the pool pump, lighting, and other electric components are installed. Our designers also make sure we can integrate your pool electrical service with your landscape features which require electrical such as Outdoor Kitchen and Barbecue outlets, Ramada lighting, and landscape lighting. Electrical can often be completed in 1 to 2 days but more intricate designs and integration with other outdoor features can increase the length of this phase.

All of the electrical components of your pool are mounted at the pool equipment. This can also include additional wiring for landscape lighting, features in your outdoor living area or outlets for future use.

STEP 7- SHOTCRETE

This is when you really get to see your pool begin to take shape. The steel cage that was created is covered with 6″ – 8″ of solid concrete. UNIQUE uses only the highest strength concrete with fiber-mesh in all of our pools. This ensures that your pool will truly last a LIFETIME. The shotcrete is completed in a single day.

Shotcrete is applied to the steel cage to form the actual shell of your pool. This is when your project really begins to look like a pool!

STEP 8- TILE & DECKING

Depending on the type of deck you select, the waterline tile will be installed right before or after your pool decking. At this same time, out craftsmen will also set the tile on other features in your project such as the outdoor kitchen countertop or on a tiled water feature. Tile can last for 2 to 5 days on average.

Waterline tile and water feature tile installation is coordinated with the installation of your pool decking.

In some cases, the decking is installed first, but in other cases the tile must be installed first. Your designer will be able to tell you the progression of your specific selections.

STEP 9 WATER FEATURES

Water features can be natural rock, artificial rock, block or stone. UNIQUE’S pool construction process integrates our water features at different points throughout the project depending on the type of feature. A properly designed and well-built water feature is key to any new swimming pool and spa project. Depending on the size, location, and material, construction of a water feature will require 1 to 3 days.

Grottos and waterfalls are often build with large surface select boulders or artificial rock. Our staff of skilled masons will custom build the water feature of your dreams.

STEP 10- LANDSCAPING & MASONRY

UNIQUE’S Landscape Division completes all of our pool masonry and hardscape projects. Our staff of masons build all of the block water features, walls, BBQ islands, fireplaces, fire pits and more. This is usually followed by an application of stucco, stone, and paint. The scope of the project will determine the length of time required to complete the work but most projects range from 2 to 10 days.

The UNIQUE Landscape division will arrive to build all of your structures including walls, BBQ Islands, fire pits and other outdoor accents.

STEP 11- FINAL INSPECTION

At this point, your project is coming together and we are ready for the inspection to be certain that your pool meets all requirements, codes, and regulations of the city/county. It normally takes a day or 2 for the city or county inspector to come out and complete his or her inspection.

STEP 12- INTERIOR FINISH

The final construction phase is the application of the pool’s interior finish. This signifies the completion of your UNIQUE pool. While the actual application of the pebble or plaster only takes a day, there are several processes which follow to finalize the interior of our pools. After an acid wash and light polish on day 2, we will start filling your pool. Depending on the size of your pool, this can take 1 to 3 days.

The installation of your pools interior surface means that we are very close to the completion of your UNIQUE custom pool. The installation is relatively fast but there are critical processes to follow to ensure a durable and perfect interior finish.

STEP 13- START-UP & ORIENTATION

Your new swimming pool is now complete but showing you how to use it takes a few days. First, chemicals are added and the pumps are started (STARTUP). After everything is perfect, you get a few hours of lessons in our very own Pool School. We can also explain to you the benefits of using the UNIQUE pool service division to maintain your new pool.

We will spend a few days getting your pool water perfectly balanced and ready for you to enjoy before we begin your tutorial on pool care. We will also explain our pool service agreement if you are not interested in maintaining the pool on your own.

STEP 14- TIME TO ENJOY YOUR CUSTOM POOL!

It has been anywhere from 30 to 60 days since the beginning of your custom pool construction process. But now you are the proud owner of a UNIQUE pool that is designed and built to last a lifetime.

It is now time to begin to enjoy your UNIQUE custom pool and all of the features that you have selected to create your dream outdoor living space. We thank you for your business and look forward to hearing how much you are enjoying your oasis.

These 14 steps and our dedication to communication and customer service are what sets UNIQUE Custom Pools apart from all of the other pool contractors in the valley. We welcome your call to schedule a free consultation with one of our pool designers to learn more about our company and how we can turn your dream pool into a reality.