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Land preparation and grading for a swimming pool?

Land preparation and grading for a swimming pool?

Building the pool of your dreams is what we do best here at CPC. However, it is essential to consider the factors that dictate how feasible the project is in your yard. This article will tell you how critical the characteristics of your property are and the most appropriate ways to approach building your concrete pool.

The process of building a concrete pool is different from other pool types such as liners or fiberglass pools. The ground must be suitable for this kind of project because it is designed to be permanent. Before any intervention in the space, the client must make sure that they have knowledge about the property. For example, property lines and aspects of the inclines and declines of the land from any point need to be recognized. Most importantly the property must allow the entrance of heavy machinery. Providing adequate access and designation of features of the property are only some of the requirements of the client.

Why is knowledge of the land important?

The lay of the land and knowledge of appurtenances and utilities is of the highest priority to avoid various situations in the future. It’s very critical that the client is aware of anything beneath the surface in the desired and surrounding area they are wanting to build a pool as well as any other aspect that might affect the building process. Everything must be considered to avoid future problems that are related to the construction. The contractor has only access to public knowledge and quite often public record does not adequately indicate the true placement if items under the ground. Location companies are available to help determine the true underlying features.

It is equally important to know the setback requirements of the property. One example of a setback would be the amount of space between the pool and the property line. Another form of a setback would be the amount of space we have to remain away from a septic or well system. Setbacks are one factor that can dictate the size of the pool that can be placed in a certain spot in a yard. It is always recommended to get a professionally certified survey of the property to adequately ensure that the correct measurements and placements are in place.

The excavation process and its development are essential for the client to know more accurately the situations that arise in pool construction. Before starting excavation, a previous study of the area must be made. The client should review the design of the pool and the location in the yard. All of this leads to the technical design that will serve as a guide for the excavation process.

In the link below you can see the how company will make markings on the ground that illuminate the pool area. Flexible wooden forms, stakes, and ropes will be placed. It will serve as a physical guide for the excavation team to start the process.

Construction progression varies when there is unstable soil, tertian and geological obstacles, or unexpected types of inground lines such as irrigation, septic, or various types of utility lines. Running into these unseen obstacles result in issues that will cause the progress of the project to take longer and in some cases halt the entire project. Although the processes that must be taken into account with excavation are complex and tedious, the result of having the pool of your dreams will be worth the extra diligence.

Concrete pool construction projects, if in residential areas, can be completed in only one day. However, when the ground has challenging conditions, it is likely to take longer. It is good to keep in mind that large machinery is necessary for this type of work. Larger equipment, such as an excavator and dump truck, will be brought in to move the soil. A smaller alternative, such as a skid steer, is used for excavation if the yard has a narrow entrance. Typically, the process takes longer and requires more manpower when the access is limited. In many cases the homeowner may need to make adjustments to the access point, such as removing a fence or trees, in order to allow for adequate entry and exit from the site. Keep in mind materials will be left on site to build your pool so there also needs to be adequate space to house these items.

Another import item to make note of in the excavation phase is that a large amount of soil is to be removed to make the appropriate hole according to the pool design. The excess ground is taken out on the same day as well to manage grade. The hole that is dug is larger than the dimensions of the pool because the steel structure and gunite will be placed later. To give an adequate illustration of just how much dirt can be removed in a pool project take a look at your house and imagine a dirt mound a third the size of it or bigger. Loose dirt and compacted dirt take up volume differently and for this reason we recommend various alternatives to simply leaving dirt behind, even if your neighbor wants some for the garden.

This excavation process requires precautions that must be taken into account. The hole in the yard as well as the walls of the hole are not stable until the steel form is made. For that reason, it is important that once it is completed, do not move any of the elements around the site and avoid walking on the edges because the soil can slide and cave in. Make sure to keep any animals or children away from the area as well. If needed have a silk fence put up to ensure no contamination of the site or accidental folly happens. These are just a few precautions to take into count due to the project having exact measurements, and the precision of grade involved to be able to allow everything to come together properly.

There can be unexpected events. Rain or a subterranean surprise when digging the soil can delay the process. For this reason, patience is necessary to be able to develop and finish a pool successfully. As a client, you must follow all the parameters indicated by the company building your pool. Following these instructions will help the construction to be successful and in the end, you will be satisfied with the project.

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