RESIDENTIAL POOL CONTRACTOR

Oak Wells Aquatics Goes to Work!

The pool construction process begins with the design and planning stage. We can go over initial project goals with you even during your free consultation when you call us - but then we'll need to meet in person and go into greater depth on your plans. This is where you decide if you want a large rectangular pool perfect for water volleyball, a narrow rectangle suitable for swimming sprints, or a relaxing, attractive boomerang, heart, or guitar shape (for example). 

We will determine the exact dimensions, contours, and depth of your pool. And use advanced computer technology to design it down to the details. We then have to match the pool design to the landscaping or "lay of the land" into which it will be "planted." We survey the area, measuring building setbacks, locating any utilities we should be aware of, and thinking through how the construction site will be accessed by workers and to bring in heavy materials as needed.

Next, we come up with a detailed written blueprint and step by step plan, and we determine which permits (if any) may be needed from local or state governments. We can handle the legal, permitting process for you so you don't have to be bothered with it. And we are fully experienced at ensuring that our pools and pool area structures comply with all state and local building codes. This can involve safety protocols like for electric and plumbing work, besides for structural soundness - so it's a big deal. We are experts at navigating this process for you.

Finally, it’s time to break ground! We set up form boards and markers and begin to dig. We use both modern equipment and good old fashioned shovels as needed to remove dirt and rocks to get the pool "hole" to the proper depth and fully ready to receive the pool wall. Also, we do everything possible to avoid damaging your lawn during this process. If some grassy areas do get trod down by heavy equipment, however, we can replant them with grass seed.

Now it's time to pour the concrete (into well placed form boards) after positioning rebar or other steel reinforcements. Vertical rebar is used, but for wider pools, horizontal bars may also be needed. This steel is carefully positioned for maximum positive impact on the pool's strength and durability. Drains and other piping that needs to go through the pool wall is also put in prior to pouring the concrete - this is called "stubbing out."

A finish is applied to the fully set concrete, normally via a spray on method using "shotcrete" or gunite. The pool floor also must be laid down in concrete - at high levels of compression and with a thickness of at least 6 inches in most cases. Pebble aggregate or decorative stones can then be added to the pool's outer shell if desired. And then, when the gunite or other shell has fully dried, we can lay down the pool tile. There are dozens of high quality and highly decorative tiles to choose from, and the variations include not only different colors but various textures, patterns, and pictures as well. The coping is then laid around the top edge of the pool and sealed to prevent leaking.

At this point, with the pool essentially in place, we can begin fitting out the plumbing, drainage, circulation and filtration systems. We will match you with the type and size of filter that will be suitable for the size and shape of your pool - but again, you will have many viable options. We will install for you all pool equipment, as well as electrical and gas lines if necessary (for pool lights or for a gas run pool heater). 

The pool deck/patio is the next step. We apply our most intense workmanship and skill to make your pool deck look perfect. We can handle all kinds of curves and contours in the decking, and we know how to make it stable, durable, slip-resistant, and beautiful. We can achieve all kinds of patterns and effects using brick, stone, or stamped concrete.

A special coating will also need to be applied to the finished pool and tiles to help it resist scratching or other damage. Plus, many modern pool finish coatings help to create different moods and effects.

Before leaving you with your brand new inground swimming pool, we will always clear the job site of all waste materials or garbage. And we also will go over all of our work to doublecheck it is perfect and complete. Our staff will also give you helpful advice on how to maintain your pool and what to do if you have any questions or troubleshooting needs down the road (just call us!)