Building a custom pool involves much more than simply digging a hole and filling it with water. From preparing the site and installing plumbing to structural construction, finishes and startup, every stage plays an important role in the finished project.
At 1st Choice Pools Building & Design, our team manages the installation process from start to finish, coordinating each phase and keeping you informed as your new backyard takes shape.
With more than 20 years of experience serving Tucson and Southern Arizona, we understand the unique considerations that come with building pools in our desert environment.
What to Expect During Your Pool Installation
Once your pool design is finalized and the necessary preparations are complete, construction can begin. While every project is different, most custom pool installations follow a similar sequence.
1. Pool Layout & Site Preparation
Before excavation begins, the approved design is carefully laid out on your property. This allows you to see the location, shape and overall footprint of your new pool before construction moves forward.
Our team also prepares the work area and determines how equipment and crews will access the property throughout the project.
2. Excavation
With the layout established, excavation begins.
The pool is carefully dug according to the approved dimensions, depths and elevations. Soil conditions, access and the complexity of the design can all influence this stage of the project.
This is also when your new pool really begins to take shape.
3. Steel & Structural Preparation
After excavation, steel reinforcement is installed to create the structural framework of the pool.
The steel is shaped around the design, including steps, benches, Baja shelves, spas and other structural features incorporated into the project.
4. Plumbing & Electrical
The plumbing system is installed to support circulation, filtration, returns, drains and any water features included in the design.
Electrical components are also prepared for equipment, lighting, automation and other features.
Careful planning during this stage helps ensure the systems work together efficiently once your pool is complete.
5. Gunite Construction
Once the structural preparation, plumbing and required inspections are complete, the pool shell is constructed using gunite.
Gunite allows us to create durable custom shapes, elevations and features that would be difficult to achieve with prefabricated pool systems.
After application, the shell must properly cure before construction progresses to the finishing stages.
6. Tile, Coping & Decking
With the structure in place, the visual character of your project begins to emerge.
Tile and coping are installed around the pool, followed by the selected decking and surrounding hardscape.
Material selections can dramatically influence the finished appearance, whether you’re creating a clean contemporary design, a natural desert-inspired backyard or a resort-style environment.
See our pool design gallery for examples of completed pools, decking, finishes and custom features throughout Tucson and Southern Arizona.
7. Pool Equipment Installation
Your pool equipment is installed and connected according to the requirements of your project.
Depending on your design, this may include pumps, filtration systems, heaters, automation, sanitizing equipment and controls for lighting or water features.
We help ensure that the equipment is appropriately matched to the pool and the way you plan to use it.
8. Interior Finish
The interior finish is one of the final major stages of construction.
Your selected finish is applied throughout the pool to create the completed interior surface and provide the color and appearance you chose during the design process.
Once this stage is complete, your project finally begins to look like the pool you envisioned.
9. Filling & Startup
After the interior is completed, the pool is filled with water and the equipment is started.
The circulation and filtration systems are checked, initial water chemistry is established and the pool begins its startup process.
10. Final Walkthrough
Before you begin enjoying your new backyard, we’ll walk you through the completed project and help familiarize you with the equipment, controls and basic operation of your pool.
It’s also an opportunity to answer questions and make sure you feel comfortable caring for and enjoying your new pool.
How Long Does Pool Installation Take?
There isn’t one construction timeline that applies to every pool.
The size and complexity of the design, site access, permitting, inspections, material selections, weather and specialty features can all affect how long a project takes to complete.
A relatively straightforward design may progress differently than a project involving an integrated spa, multiple elevations, extensive decking, retaining walls, water or fire features, or other custom elements. See how multiple elevations, an integrated spa, custom decking and water features came together in our tiered custom pool project in Tucson.
During your project, our team will keep you informed about the construction schedule and upcoming stages so you know what to expect.
What Can Affect the Construction Timeline?
Several factors can influence the installation process:
- Pool size, shape and depth
- Property access
- Site and soil conditions
- Permitting and inspections
- Integrated spas and Baja shelves
- Decking and hardscape requirements
- Water and fire features
- Equipment and automation
- Material availability
- Weather
- Overall complexity of the design
This is one reason we approach every project individually rather than treating every installation the same.
Communication Throughout Your Project
Watching your backyard transform is exciting, but we also understand that construction can raise questions along the way.
Our goal is to keep you informed as your project progresses. From excavation through the finishing stages, our team coordinates the work and communicates with you about what has been completed and what comes next.
That communication is an important part of creating a smoother building experience.
Planning a New Custom Pool?
If you’re still in the planning and design stage, explore our New Pool Construction services to learn more about designing a pool around your home, property and lifestyle.
Once your design is complete, the installation process brings that vision to life.
Why Choose 1st Choice Pools?
For more than 20 years, we’ve helped homeowners throughout Tucson and Southern Arizona transform their backyards with thoughtfully designed custom pools.
Our approach combines personalized design, experienced construction, quality materials and clear communication throughout the project. Read our customer reviews to learn more about homeowners’ experiences working with 1st Choice Pools.
Every backyard is different. Every homeowner has different priorities. And we believe every pool should reflect that.
Ready to Start Your Project?
Have an idea for your backyard? Contact 1st Choice Pools Building & Design to schedule a free consultation.
We’ll discuss your property, ideas and priorities and help you determine the best way to bring your vision to life.