Tastes are understandably divided when it comes to pool choice, but many are unaware of the different options available. One area that has grown in popularity in recent years is saltwater pools. Many experience that saltwater provides a softer feel and requires less maintenance. However, there are certain aspects to consider before a decision is made, such as the corrosion risk for certain pool components and the initial cost of a salt chlorinator system.
If you want a custom pool, you can understandably choose to build it from the ground up.
This option requires carefully performed excavation work and site preparation to ensure stability and proper drainage. Walls and bottom slab are constructed on site using edge elements, reinforcement mesh, and concrete, which allows for complete customization of shape and size. However, this process is time-consuming and requires extensive work, as well as specialist expertise in construction and installation, which is not recommended to be done on your own, even for the handy person.
Another option is to invest in a complete pool. This is delivered as a finished unit, often made of materials like fiberglass or PP plastic, which is lowered into a prepared hole in the ground using a crane. Although some pre- and post-work is required, such as creating a stable bed and connecting the pipe system, the installation time is significantly shorter and the work less demanding. For those with building experience, this is a project that can be carried out on your own, which can help reduce the total cost.
Plan to obtain all parts at the same time
When ordering a complete pool suppliers often offer various package solutions, which can include everything from purification systems to lighting. It is wise to carefully review these before making a decision to ensure that all necessary components are included and compatible. The more thoughtfully planned and complete the package is with all details, 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 the installation time on site. Outlets, inlets, lighting, and stairs may already be in place. Additionally, the entire machine room, including sand filter, pool heat pump and automated chlorine and purification systems, can be delivered ready-made at the same time as the pool. This significantly facilitates the connection and commissioning of the pool system.
If a pool cover or other covering is desired, it is advantageous to have it in place right away, as it helps maintain the water temperature, reduce evaporation, and increase safety. A dialogue with the pool supplier is recommended to discuss all details and get help compiling 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 dug, whose size and depth 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 bottom slab to guarantee stability and prevent the pool from lifting during high groundwater levels. Additionally, a prepared location for the filter and pump is required near the pool, as well as the laying of pipes and electricity. A well-planned placement of the technical room is crucial for future maintenance and operation.
Many choose to hire help to carry out this preparatory work, which includes excavation, removal of soil, establishment of a bearing layer, and drainage at the bottom. However, for those 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. Therefore, it is important to consider in advance where the crane truck can stand and how accessible the location for the pool is. Can the crane truck enter the property and get close to the installation site? If it must be placed outside the property, how far does the crane need to reach to safely lift the pool into place? Does it require a large or a small crane truck, which can affect both cost and logistics? Discuss this carefully with the supplier, who has experience in finding optimal solutions and can assess which type of crane is most suitable based on the local conditions.
Post-work
After the pool is in place, it should be connected to the purification system, heat pump, and other equipment, and the space around the pool's walls is filled with macadam and concrete as the water is filled up. This packing work is important to give the pool stability and prevent ground movements. 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 to building it from the ground up, which provides faster 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 for excavation and pouring of the bottom slab in good time, as this is fundamental to the pool's lifespan.
- Prepare a location for the filter and pump, as well as the laying of electricity and pipes, to ensure a smooth installation of the technical equipment.
- Discuss the location for the crane truck and accessibility on the property with the supplier to avoid unexpected obstacles during delivery.
- Order all details for the pool at the same time for pre-assembly, such as lighting and inlets, to streamline the installation process.
- Order sand filter, pump, etc., for the machine room in a complete package to ensure compatibility and complete functionality.
