Pool Construction Process
Your San Diego County Custom Pool Builder
So you’ve decided to get a brand new custom pool from Padre Pools! There are many moving parts throughout the custom pool construction process, and at Padre Pools we want you to feel confident and comfortable things are getting done. While things can change throughout the process, we want you to know that Padre Pools is dedicated to providing superior professionalism and quality craftsmanship the entire time. Take a few minutes to learn more about the pool construction process below to get a better understanding of what to expect while we build your custom pool. And feel free to contact us with any questions you may have before, during or after construction. Our goal is to amaze and delight you with the latest pool design and technology! We want you to love your new pool for years to come.
The Best Pool Construction for Your San Diego Property
Many San Diego pool builders offer stock construction packages, limiting your choices for pool and backyard design. At Padre Pools, we provide you with one-on-one attention from the very beginning, explaining the entire construction process and presenting you with limitless options to build the custom pool of your dreams. Our team will provide you with a design that is uniquely custom and within your budget.
Permits
After you have approved the final design of your pool, a detailed set of engineered plans will be created from which your pool will be permitted and constructed. If plans or drawings need to be submitted to a homeowners association prior to building permits being issued, we will provide them and also help you with the process.
Layout and Excavation
The next step in the construction of your new pool is excavation. An outline of your pool will be created at the pool’s location. Our excavation crew will then carefully layout, form, excavate and hand-trim your pool in precise accordance with every detail of your swimming pool’s design specifications.
Throughout the construction process, your pool will be carefully inspected by our field supervisor and local building inspectors.
Plumbing
Your pool is now ready to be plumbed for optimal hydraulics. Our plumbing systems are designed for maximum flow rates, thus insuring your pool will always be running at peak “energy conserving” performance. All pipe connections are solidly bonded and the entire plumbing system is hydrostatically pressure tested during the entire construction process. This insures the highest possible water quality with the lowest operating cost.
Steel
Next, a Padre Pools’ steel crew forms a contoured grid of reinforcing steel to create the frame of your swimming pool. Our steel will meet or exceed all building department and engineering standards. Tie wires hold the frame together and in place until it is inspected and shotcrete is applied. You will note that there are block spacers under the steel. This helps to hold the steel above the surrounding soil.
When the steel or “rebar” is completely installed, it may look as though some of the steps and benches are missing. These will be created and carved when shotcrete is applied. If you are having a rock feature, waterfall, or slide built with your pool, the reinforcing steel will also be installed at this time.
Start Up and Orientation
Once your pool is full of water, our technician will begin the process of initializing all the plumbing systems and equipment. Initially, we will take care of your water’s chemistry which is critically important during the “start-up” phase of your pool. Once we have all the components and systems properly running, you will be contacted for an appointment with our Orientation Specialist to meet with you for hands on training. Our specialist will help familiarize you with your pool’s equipment, procedures, and water chemistry.
Shotcrete
The next process of your pool construction is the application of shotcrete. This type of “freeform” concrete application allows concrete to be used to create a pool structure that will follow any style of pool shape and geometry while remaining incredibly strong. With this procedure, concrete can be applied horizontally, vertically, and even upward to form the underside of a ceiling or grotto. Shotcrete is sometimes also referred to as “wet-gun” concrete. It will be applied by experienced and highly trained technicians. These technicians will apply the shotcrete around your pool’s steel reinforcement grid and expertly form and carve all ledges, steps, and benches. The pool shell formed during this process is so strong that Padre Pools backs it with a full lifetime warranty for as long as you own your home.
Optional Rock Water Features
By now, your artificial rock/water feature is in place and the rough carving is completed. Texturing and staining will be next. This process can take several days or even weeks depending upon the feature’s size and complexity. Creating a water feature should be a collaborative effort and we welcome your input along the way.
Coping and Tile
Coping will now be placed around the pool perimeter of your pool. As you can see from the photos in our Gallery, there are many options to choose from. Some of these options include precast coping pieces or natural stone such as Quartzite. Quartzite’s beauty is in its natural appearance.
The next step in the construction process is the installation of your waterline tile. Your pool will get porcelain or glass waterline tile that will be hand set and carefully grouted around the perimeter of your pool. Shimmering tiles in the color that you have chosen will be the perfect highlight to your pool.
Pool Decking and Pavers
Next, the outline of your pool’s decking is formed. Pavers or stamped or etched concrete are options. At this point, you should make sure the decking layout is exactly the way you want it. Keep in mind you may desire areas for lounging, tables, sunning, or planters.
Interior Finish
Now it is time for the interior finish to be applied. Standard pool plaster takes only 1 day to install. Exposed aggregate or polished finishes however, are usually a two day process. Once applied, the reveal or polishing of the aggregate finish will occur the following day. As soon as the process is complete, we will begin filling your new pool with water.
