Pool
Back in February of this year (2006), my husband and I began the process of building a pool. Through research and networking, we narrowed it down to three companies: Essig Pools, New Image Pools & Spas, and Superior Pools, Spas & Waterfalls. After meeting with all three, we decided on New Image Pools. This decision was based on the following:
- Pool design – Robert, our pool designer, was able to design the pool we wanted in about an hour. He brought his laptop to our home and he designed the pool in Visio as we watched over and made changes on the fly. When we finalized the design of the pool, Robert printed out the design. We were very impressed.
- Proposal Detail – As mentioned above, Robert brought his laptop and printer to our home. Therefore, he was able to print out a proposal that included the pool’s standard features, which showed the base price; the options we selected (with product brand and model number) with line item pricing; the spa section with its price; the decking section with line item pricing; the Grand Total; and the payment schedule.
- Product/Industry Knowledge – Robert was able to provide specific answers to our questions about the construction process, pool equipment, and pool features. He also made suggestions on the pool’s design and options, which allowed our pool to be more functional and beautiful.
After dispensing with the formalities of signing the contract and handing over the deposit, New Image Pools sent us a packet of information, which included a “SCHEDULE OF CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITY”. We found this schedule to be very informative. So much so that I am including parts of it here with our own photos to show you the process we went through. (I would direct you to their site for this information, but it is not available.)
THE SCHEDULE OF OUR CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITY
- From date of contract signing to completion of Engineering drawings takes approximately two to three weeks.
- Plans are then taken to the building department for permit issuance and can take up to three or four weeks (depends on your city’s building department).
- Holes are dug after permit issuance. (Pool expected to be complete eight to ten weeks from this point.)
- Shortly thereafter, the pool is shaped and steeled, in preparation for shooting the concrete floor and walls.
- Once the pool is steeled, an inspection by the city/county must take place before construction can continue. (NO ACTIVITY ON INSPECTION DAYS)
- Once inspection passes, the pool is stripped and then shot.
- Once the shell hardens, the pool is stripped of form-boards.
- All plumbing pipes are then installed.
- At this point, another inspection is called for the pool piping. (NO ACTIVITY ON INSPECTION DAYS)
- When inspection passes, the pipes are then covered and the ground is pre-graded and made ready to install the deck.
- Brick coping and perimeter tiles are then installed.
- The paver deck is installed.
- Another inspection is called to inspect the deck and bond. (NO ACTIVITY ON INSPECTION DAYS)
- Once the inspection passes, the pool equipment is installed.
- At this point, the electrician will come in and hook up all the equipment.
- An electrical inspection is now called in. (NO ACTIVITY ON INSPECTION DAYS)
- A fence/screen enclosure is now installed.
- The pool is now emptied and cleaned of all debris and is prepared for Diamond Brite.
- Diamond Brite the next day. (WEATHER PERMITTING)
- After the pool is filled with water (half-way up to the center of the perimeter tile), the water will be brought up to proper chemical balance. (Known as fire-up)
- There will be from two to five FINAL INSPECTIONS REQUIRED, depending on a specific municipality. These inspections can take place while you are enjoying and swimming in your pool.
Check out our Pool Gallery for even more pictures.
