Swimming Pool Construction Process
Pool Remodeling, Construction process, Pool Finishes
Setting expectations is our main priority prior to any project. The information below is the standard pool construction project for MOST pool projects. During the actual new pool construction, we provide our clients with specific information for each phase of the project – which keeps you informed. Comprehending each phase is critical to your overall understanding of your new pool and landscape. Our clients love our “INFORMATIVE” approach during construction as our processes allow our clients to have all the information right there at their fingertips!
STEP 1
DESIGN – PLANNING & PERMITTING
Prior to construction, your new pool is reviewed by our design & construction team, CAD Department, Engineers & Owner – Chris Griffin. All construction notes are carefully put on the plans for permitting, sub-contractors, and our crews. Permits are then obtained, which can take anywhere from 1 day to 4 weeks, depending on the municipality.
DURATION: 2 days to 4 weeks
Step 1 : MORE INFO
STEP 2
LAYOUT
Once the Engineering & Permitting is complete, these plans are carefully marked out in your yard. The layout person has a precise layout that makes sure your new pool is built to within inches of what we have on the plan! Other important details are marked out and the homeowner has a chance to see the proposed new pool prior to excavation. Any final changes & alterations are made – to make sure the perfect pool is built for you!
DURATION: 1 to 2 hours
STEP 3
EXCAVATION
Excavation marks the start of our swimming pool construction process. This usually includes heavy equipment (bobcats, backhoes, and dump trucks) to dig your new pool. Our excavators take careful precautions when digging your pool and forms are set to show our crews to follow the shape & size of the pool.
DURATION: 1 to 3 days
STEP 4
PLUMBING
Plumbing is one of the most critical aspects of our pools. Since our primary focus is over-sized plumbing, hydrology, and pump efficiency – we take careful precautions during this phase. Our plumbing layouts are designed & reviewed by our owner, Chris Griffin, prior to every pool project. Job-site pictures are also taken throughout the process for documentation.
DURATION: 1 to 2 days
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 & larger pools.
DURATION: 1 – 2 days
STEP 6
ELECTRICAL
The Electrical Phase of the project involves safely bringing in all pump & light electrical aspects to your new swimming pool. With underground conduit, equipment sets, and pool lighting – our electricians take careful precautions to make sure your pool is safe! Our designers also make sure we can integrate your pool with your landscape too (i.e. – Outdoor Kitchen and Barbecue outlets, Ramada lighting, and landscape lighting).
DURATION: 1 to 2 days
STEP 7
SHOTCRETE
Probably the coolest phase of our pool projects is seeing the shotcrete blown into your new swimming pool! The steel cage is covered with 6″ – 8″ of solid concrete which ultimately transforms your pool into a permanent structure. Our craftsmen have years of experience making sure this phase is perfect and Unique uses the highest strength concrete with fiber-mesh in all of our pools – truly allowing your pool to last a LIFETIME!
DURATION: 1 day
STEP 8
TILE & DECKING
The installation of waterline tile generally happens before or after the “decking” phase – depending on the type of deck. Our professional tile setters have years of experience and can set tile along the waterline of your new swimming pool: decorative mosaic tile, coping, and more. You will also catch them installing your outdoor kitchen and barbeque counter top tile – if that is part of our scope of work.
DURATION: 2 – 5 days
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 & well-built water feature is key to any new swimming pool & spa project.
DURATION: 1 – 3 days
STEP 10
LANDSCAPING & MASONRY
Unique’s Landscape Division also handles all of our pool masonry & hardscape projects. Our skilled masons construct all of our block water features, walls, barbecues, fireplaces & more. This is usually followed by an application of stucco, stone, and paint – and is streamlined throughout the pool construction project.
DURATION: 2 – 10 days
STEP 11
FINAL INSPECTION
We are down to the final aspects & requirements to finalize your project and get your pool to interior finish (pebble tec, pebble sheen, or any other surface). We hope things are looking spectacular, and one of the final steps is making sure your pool meets all the requirements, codes, and regulations of the city/county – and that we’ve done everything safely and properly. It always helps to have another set of eyes on your pool, and who better than a city/county inspector.
DURATION: 1 – 2 days
STEP 12
INTERIOR FINISH
The final construction phase of the job is the application of the pool’s interior finish – which also signifies the completion of our pool. While the actual application of the pebble or plaster only takes a day, we have several processes that follow to finalize the interior of our pools. After an acid wash & 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.
DURATION: 2 – 4 days
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). For a few days we work out any kinks or issues with the pool & equipment. After everything is perfect, our clients get a few hours of lessons in our very own – Pool School.
DURATION: 1 – 3 hours
STEP 14
SWIM!
You’ve waited anywhere from 30 to 60 days for your pool to be built – now it’s time to enjoy! Our pools are designed & built to last a lifetime – and we love to stay in touch with our clients!Your swimming pool is complete1