Taste is, of course, a matter of preference when it comes to choosing a pool, but many people are unaware of the different options available. One area that has grown in popularity in recent years is saltwater pools. Many people find that saltwater provides a softer feel and requires less maintenance. However, there are certain aspects to consider before making a decision, such as the risk of corrosion to certain pool components and the initial cost of a salt chlorinator system.
If you want a custom-built pool, you can of course choose to build it from scratch.
This option requires careful excavation and ground preparation to ensure stability and proper drainage. Walls and base slab are constructed on site using edge elements, reinforcing mesh, and concrete, allowing for full customisation of shape and size. However, this process is time-consuming and requires extensive work, as well as specialist expertise in construction and civil engineering, so it is not recommended to do it yourself, even if you are handy.
Another option is to invest in a complete pool. This is delivered as a finished unit, often made from materials such as fibreglass or PP plastic, which is lowered into a prepared hole in the ground using a crane. Although some preparatory and finishing work is required, such as creating a stable base and connecting the piping system, installation time is significantly shorter and the work is less demanding. For someone with building experience, this is a project that can be carried out independently, which can help lower the total cost.
Plan to receive all parts at the same time
When ordering a complete pool, suppliers often offer different package solutions, which may include everything from filtration systems to lighting. It is wise to review these carefully before making a decision to ensure that all necessary components are included and compatible. The more well thought-out and complete the package is, with all the details included, the faster and smoother the pool will be ready for swimming.
Many components may already be pre-assembled and prepared in the pool shell itself upon delivery, which reduces installation time on site. Outlets, inlets, lighting, and stairs may already be in place. In addition, the entire machinery room, including sand filter, pool heat pump and automated chlorine and purification systems, can be delivered ready at the same time as the pool. This greatly simplifies the connection and commissioning of the pool system.
If a pool enclosure or other cover is desired, it is beneficial to have this installed immediately, as it helps maintain water temperature, reduce evaporation, and increase safety. A dialogue with the pool supplier is recommended to discuss all the details and get help putting together a complete package that meets specific needs and wishes. This ensures a faster completion process once the pool has been delivered.
Preparation before delivery
Certain measures need to be taken before the pool is delivered to ensure a smooth installation. A hole for the pool must be excavated, the size and depth of which are adapted to the pool's dimensions. If the ground is sandy or the groundwater level is high, it may be necessary to pour a base slab to guarantee stability and prevent the pool from lifting when groundwater levels are high. In addition, a prepared location for the filter and pump is required near the pool, as well as the routing of pipes and electrical wiring. A well-planned location for the technical room is crucial for future maintenance and operation.
Many people choose to hire help to carry out this preparatory work, which includes excavation, removal of soil, laying the sub-base, and drainage at the bottom. However, for someone with building experience, it is possible to do this yourself, which can be a cost-effective option.
Do you need a large or a small crane?
When the finished pool shell is delivered, it is lowered into the hole using a crane truck. It is therefore important to consider in advance where the crane truck can stand and how accessible the pool site is. Can the crane truck enter the property and get close to the installation site? If it must be positioned outside the property, how far must the crane then reach to safely lift the pool into place? Does a large or a small crane truck required, which can affect both cost and logistics? Discuss this carefully with the supplier, who has experience finding optimal solutions and can assess which type of crane is most suitable based on local conditions.
Finishing work
After the pool is in place, it must be connected to the purification system, heat pump, and other equipment, and the space around the pool walls is filled with crushed stone and concrete as the water is filled in. This packing work is important to give the pool stability and prevent movement in the ground. Although there is some work involved in installing a pool, it is significantly less demanding and faster with a complete pool that is lifted into place compared with building it from scratch, giving you a quicker move-in and swimming enjoyment.
Things to consider when ordering a complete pool:
- Carefully check the groundwater level and the ground conditions to avoid future problems with drainage and stability.
- Contact any help needed for excavation and pouring the base slab well in advance, as this is fundamental to the pool's lifespan.
- Prepare a space for the filter and pump, as well as the routing of electrical wiring and pipes, to ensure a smooth installation of the technical equipment.
- Discuss the location for the crane truck and access on the property with the supplier to avoid unexpected obstacles during delivery.
- Order all the pool details at the same time for pre-assembly, such as lighting and inlets, to streamline the installation process.
- Order the sand filter, pump, and more for the machinery room in a complete package to ensure compatibility and full functionality.
