Understanding The Process Of Building An Inground Pool

An inground pool can be a beautiful and functional addition to your backyard. With the almost limitless number of shapes available, you will always be able to find a model that fits your space and still allow you the flexibility to add outdoor living space for patio tables, BBQ area, gardens and sun shelters. Let’s take a moment to review the process of building an inground pool.

Plan the Pool Area

Backyard swimming pool designers are now using advanced 3-D computer design programs to help you plan your pool layout. These tools help the homeowner envision their completed project on the computer screen before the shovel hits the ground. This is a great advantage as you can notice conflicts and make any required changes inexpensively before the crews are in your backyard.

Getting the Permit

In the City of Ottawa, you need to apply for a Pool Enclosure Permit. This permit will ensure the pool is placed correctly in the yard based on required setbacks and that the fence is constructed properly for safety.

Work Begins with the Excavation

The first big operation is the excavation. In most cases, the larger the machine that you can get into the backyard, the better. Larger machines dig dirt faster and reduce the labour and equipment charge for the digging process. Sometimes, it is cheaper to remove and replace some fencing or gates to allow the larger machines to pass in and out. If creating a large opening is not possible, the dig can usually be done with mini excavators and bobcats, but be prepared to add some cost to the pool price. Most pool builders in Ottawa price their pool packages based on 12 foot dumptruck access to your backyard. If the accessway is smaller, the price will end up being slightly higher.

Pool Panels

Once the hole is dug, the next step is to create the shape of the pool with the pool panels. These panels are either made of galvanized steel or polymer plastic. The panels are ordered with the appropriate radius and curves to create the pool shape that you desire, based on the plan. These panels are fastened together on site to create the perimeter of the pool shape.

Concrete Structure

With the pool panels installed, the concrete is then poured around the exterior of the pool to strengthen and lock the pool walls in place. Concrete is then poured over the floor area of the pool and the installer will hand trowel this to a smooth finish. The pool is then backfilled with sand or gravel around the exterior of the walls and, finally, the liner is ready to install.

Liner

Hanging the liner is a delicate process that can only be done by an expert pool installer. Avoiding wrinkles and getting a good fit is the key here. The liner is expanded with vacuum pressure and the water is installed quickly with a water truck so wrinkles do not reappear.

Decking/ Landscaping

You’re nearly there! Generally, decking and landscaping will be required after the pool is installed to even out the ground and restore the backyard. You can opt for a simple, concrete pool surround, or take your backyard to the next level with an outdoor kitchen, pergola seating area, or firepit.

Clean Up

With plans for landscaping work coming to an end, rest assured that we will take care of the clean up. We did the heavy equipment work to dig the pool and we will do the heavy duty cleaning to get your backyard looking just right.

If you want a more in-depth explanation of Rideau Pools’ process, we explain the major details on our website including the most important final step……..jumping in!