The 7 Phases Of Concrete Pool Construction

If you’re thinking about having a swimming pool added to your property, you’re probably wondering exactly what’s involved in the process so you know what to expect. The good news is that you’ve come to the right place – in the list below, we have outlined each of the phases involved in concrete pool construction so that you don’t run into any surprises.

phases of concrete pool construction

  1. Setting the Layout
    Once the plans have been approved and all necessary permits obtained, construction is begun by setting out the layout of the pool. The team will perform various measurements to ensure that the shell is being put in the right spot and will mark out the edges (often using spray paint). They may also mark out where fencing, paved areas and landscaping will go.
     
  2. Excavation & Plumbing
    Next, the site will be excavated to the appropriate depth within the markings that the team has made. This is achieved with the use of a digger. This is also when plumbing will be added, which will help your pool to maintain proper circulation and filtration (ensuring that it will function properly and that the water will be as clean as possible).
     
  3. Reinforced Pool Shell
    Steel reinforcement wire is placed both vertically and horizontally throughout the excavated site at the appropriate depths for your particular pool. This is used to reinforce the shell and ensure that it will be able to withstand the pressure exerted by the thousands of litres of water it will eventually be filled with.
     
  4. Setting the Floor & Walls
    The next part of concrete pool construction sees the walls and floor of the shell created. A mixture of cement and sand (known as gunite) is used. It provides the strength required to keep the shell intact for many years to come. Once the gunite has been applied, decorative waterline tiles are added in the shape and colour of your choosing.
     
  5. Concrete Curing
    Although the concrete can be walked on after 24 hours, the inside of the shell will not be strong enough to withstand thousands of litres of water. The shell will need to cure for around 30 days, during which time you will be asked to water it regularly to keep the outer layers of concrete cool to avoid cracking.
     
  6. Installation of Electricals
    In order to run your filtration equipment, heater and lighting and other apparatus, you need access to a suitable electricity supply. Any underground or under-shell cabling will have already been completed by this time – now, it’s time for all of these components to be connected up and installed in the correct locations.
     
  7. Finishing the Interior
    Finally, it’s time for the finishing touches. You have three finish options to choose from – tiling the entire shell, rendering the surface with a pebble-crete type material (such as glass pebbles and stone), or painting the surface. Once the interior has been completed and is dry, the pool will be filled with water and is ready to be used.

pool construction

Although the process might seem relatively simple, it is important to remember that concrete pool construction does take time. Generally speaking, it will take around 12 to 16 weeks depending on the complexity of your design and the limitations posed by your property. If you have any questions at all about our process, be sure to contact the Eco Pools & Spas team on (03) 5998 7794.