What to Expect During the Excavation Phase with Your Inground Pool Installer

Building an inground pool installer is an exciting project that can transform your backyard into a personal retreat. One of the most crucial and action-packed stages of the process is the excavation phase. This step lays the groundwork for the pool’s structure and determines the overall success of the installation. Understanding what to expect during this phase can help you feel prepared and ensure the process runs smoothly.

1. Pre-Excavation Preparation

Before the digging begins, your pool installer will conduct a thorough site assessment. This includes confirming the pool’s dimensions, location, and orientation based on your design plans. The team will also mark the perimeter of the pool using stakes and string or spray paint, providing a visual guide for the excavation crew.

Additionally, this phase involves obtaining necessary permits and scheduling utility marking services to avoid damaging underground lines. Any obstacles like rocks, debris, or existing landscaping will be cleared to ensure a smooth excavation process.

Pro Tip: Discuss potential challenges, such as tree roots or uneven terrain, with your installer to prevent surprises.

2. Breaking Ground

Once the site is prepped, heavy machinery like excavators and backhoes will be brought in to start digging. The installer will dig the outline of the pool, carefully following the marked layout. Depending on the pool’s design, excavation may involve creating multiple depth zones, such as shallow and deep ends.

During this phase, the installer will regularly check measurements and ensure the dig aligns with the blueprints. Excess soil is typically removed from the site using dump trucks, keeping the area organized and ready for the next stage.

Example: For a standard 12x24-foot pool, excavation can take one to two days, depending on soil conditions and weather.

3. Addressing Soil and Drainage

Excavation can reveal unexpected challenges, such as rocky soil or high groundwater levels. In such cases, your installer may need to adjust the pool’s foundation by reinforcing the walls with gravel or installing a drainage system to manage excess water.

Solution: Sump pumps or French drains are often used to prevent water buildup during construction.

4. Shaping and Leveling

Once the pool’s basic shape is excavated, the installer will fine-tune the dig by smoothing out the walls and leveling the base. This step ensures the pool shell fits perfectly and that the structure remains stable over time. Any required rebar or framing will be installed in preparation for the next phase – pool shell installation.

5. Inspection and Approval

Before moving forward, most municipalities require an inspection of the excavation site. This ensures the dig meets safety standards and is compliant with local building codes. The pool installer will coordinate the inspection and make any necessary adjustments based on feedback.

The excavation phase is a pivotal step in building an inground pool installer, setting the foundation for the entire project. By understanding what to expect – from site preparation to inspections – homeowners can feel confident and informed throughout the process. Ready to get started? Partner with experienced pool installers to ensure a smooth excavation and watch your backyard transformation take shape.