Pool Construction 101: 7 Things to Do Before You Start~5 min read

Having a pool installed is a major investment in your property, and a great deal of care should be taken before the construction begins. There is so much to choose from and so much information at our fingertips today, that it is very wise to take the time to investigate all options available.

#1. Decide on the Construction method to employ:

There are 3 basic construction methods used to install an in-ground pool. Each has its own benefits and limitations. Where you live does affect the availability and the practicality of the type of pool you may choose. The three types are:

1. Gunite – Pneumatically applied concrete
2. Fiberglass – Fiberglass matting with epoxy resin
3. Vinyl – Steel, aluminum, or plastic walls with a thick vinyl interior lining

We are not going to go into all of the many pros and cons here, but much is available, and each builder will certainly tell you that his type of pool is the best. In South Louisiana, where we build, Gunite pool builders, with good reason, outnumber the other builder types at a ratio of approximately 50 to 1.

#2. Examine the available space you have and what spatial limitations exists:

Having a copy of your property survey (usually one of the pages in your mortgage) is invaluable because you can use it to determine exactly how much space is available for the placement of your pool and whatever setbacks or easements may exist. This combined with photos of your back yard will allow most pool designers to provide you with a three-dimensional view of what your pool could look like and a price.

#3. Investigate all options currently available:

Should you add a spa? Would your children and pets use a “tanning ledge”? What depth should you choose? Water-Walls, lighted fountains, automatic chemical controllers, safety devices…… Make sure that you look at everything available before you build.

#4. What are the local building and safety codes?

Investigate what HOA rules may exist and what your local parish building department requires. The permitting process has changed drastically over the years, and it is not uncommon for permits to take months to be issued. Fence heights and construction methods, self-closing gates, door alarms, access restrictions, easements and setbacks can be troublesome if not investigated fully before construction begins. If you are near a levee, a levee permit might be required for example. In most cases, this will require a Letter of No Objection (LNO) from the Army Core of Engineers, the Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority and the local levee board.

#5. Contractor Selection:

It is advisable to talk to two or three contractors before selecting one to design and build your pool. In too many cases, the decision is made too hastily without much investigation and the deciding factor is usually price. Regardless of who you choose to build your pool, the defining element should never be price. Pools are different than other major purchases you may make in your life. Unlike a car or boat, a poorly built pool is hard to “unload” and in some cases almost impossible to fix or maintain.

A poorly constructed pool could become a serious impediment if you ever decide to sell your house. Whereas beautiful clear water and shimmering tile and decking can sway a potential buyer in your direction, a green lagoon may require giving back your “savings” and more to a potential buyer. Follow these criteria when selecting a pool builder:

1. Select a contactor that has been successfully building quality pools for at least 5 years. We believe that house contractors, plumbers, electricians, and landscaping contractors are very good at their chosen professions but usually not too good at building pools.
2. Talk to 5 to 10 former clients of your prospective builder. Usually someone has built pools for 5 years or more has established a reputation. It is also a good idea to check with local homebuilders and subcontractors that provide services to the pool industry.
3. Ask for a current license and a certificate of insurance from their insurance Company to be sent directly to you. Don’t accept a “copy” that he provides.
4. Involvement. Membership in the BBB, Local Homebuilder’s Association. There is extra value to be found in working with a company that is “full-Service.” Pool maintenance and repairs will be needed at some point so it is a great advantage to have access to the skills, knowledge and abilities of a full-service company.

#6. Interview the Owner and Read the Contract:

You should want to know who owns the company and have a face-to-face conversation with him/her and discuss, in detail, all of the terms and conditions of the contract. There are many questions that will arise during construction and your knowledge of what is to be expected of you and of the builder is of the utmost importance. A contract that lays out in layman’s terms specifically what the builder will do and what you are responsible for will enable you to glide through the building process without much of the anxiety and frustration that accompanies many pool construction contracts.

1. Everything should be in writing. Specific equipment choices with brand names and model #’s. Make sure that the contract covers all of what you are to get.
2. All terms used should be defined. Terms may mean one thing in one trade and can be different in another.
3. A 3D picture of the pool and a plan-view drawing with all measurements plainly listed and defined.
4. Make sure that all of your choices of tile, coping, decking and plaster are noted in writing and that you have a copy of the selections.

#7. Get the Yard Ready and the Utilities required:

Make sure that all personal belongings are secure and keep them where they won’t be damaged. Make sure that you have the water and electricity that will be required for construction.