The Pool Construction Process

Step 1 – Initial Consultation

During the initial consultation, we will discuss the options and features available for your backyard oasis. You will be shown various photos, slide shows, videos, samples, and pools during construction and after completion in order to give you a full understanding of what the finished product will look like. You’ll also be given a step-by-step timeline for your project.

Please bring a survey/site plan of your property to speed up the process.

Step 2 – Site Visit

A design consultant will perform a site assessment of your property, where they will photograph and measure your property in preparation for completing your 3D design. During this assessment, they will determine where the equipment will be located, how we will access the backyard with our equipment, and if there is anything in the way of construction.

Step 3 – 3D Design

Using the information you provided during your initial meeting, along with the pictures and measurements of your property, your design consultant will create a detailed computerized rendering of your dream pool using the latest 3D technology.

Step 4 – Meet & Review Your Design and Quote

Once you are completely satisfied with the design of your backyard oasis, we will provide you with an accurate quote. At this time, your design consultant will set up an appointment to go over the quote details with you.

Step 5 – Sign & Pick Colors

After all the details and numbers have been discussed, it is time to sign the agreement, permit paperwork, and pick colors/materials for your new EcoWorks Pool! Your designer will assist you with your color selections and paperwork.

Step 6 – Permitting

EcoWorks handles the permitting for you! Your permit paperwork is submitted to the County office for permit review.

During this time, it is the responsibility of the homeowner to submit any documentation necessary to their homeowner’s association for approval.

Step 7 – Pool Layout

Our in-house layout crew will layout the perimeter of your pool with stakes, wood forms, and string lines. This step is done in preparation for digging the pool. It is very important and must be done accurately which is why EcoWorks uses our own employees in order to ensure accuracy.

Step 8 – Dig

Once the pool is staked out, our crew will begin digging your new pool. Our standard pools are 3’ – 5’ deep. A pool that is 5’ at its deepest point will be dug to approximately 6’ 6” in order to properly stabilize the shell, install your sump system line, and fit your channel drain correctly. Properly stabilizing the shell and installing a sump line is essential.

Step 9 – Form

This is when the elevation of your new pool is set. The step is crucial to ensuring a smooth installation. 

Step 10 – Steel

Our crew will form and lay #5 rebar every 1’ on center throughout your entire pool form. You will also see them begin to pre-plumb.

Step 11 – Shell

At this step, you will really start to see the pool take shape. The Gunite concrete is shot through a high-pressure hose for structural strength. Gunite is a concrete blend of sand, cement, and water. It becomes rock hard, forming a thick, solid structure. Keep in mind this is the rough structure of your pool and will be finished off with plaster later in the process. The shell will cure as we do the finished work around the pool.

Step 12 – Plumbing

Pipe diameters are determined by calculating flow rates based on water demand including pumps, filters, and water features. EcoWorks uses a minimum of 2” schedule 40 PVC non-corrosive piping. We dig the plumbing trenches with our mini excavator. We are sure to dig at least 3’ down so your plumbing is protected. The pipes run from your new pool to your new pool equipment and are pressurized to be sure there are no leaks and to pass county inspections.

Step 13 – Backfill & Compact

Once the plumbing is complete, the dirt is backfilled into the trenches to cover any exposed pipes. The soil is then compacted using a heavy jumping jack tamper. The soil must be compacted properly to minimize shifting and settlement issues with your new deck.

Step 14 – Tile & Coping

This step is where the artistry comes in. Our in-house crew will start by checking if your shell is completely level and will mud up any areas that may need it to ensure accuracy. Water doesn’t lie so ensuring that everything is level is vital. Each piece of coping and tile will be cut and set individually to ensure there are no feathered grout joints. Deco tiles and designs are added based on your color selections.

Step 15 – Decking options (Concrete, Pavers, & Travertine)

We have multiple decking options to choose from. Be sure to ask your design consultant about the materials we offer and the pros and cons of each in order to help you make the best decision for your backyard oasis. Regardless of the deck type you choose, a 2” deco drain is installed between the deck and house for drainage purposes.

Step 16 – Pool Equipment

Your new pool equipment will be set on an 8’ x 4’ concrete pad. The pad is oversized to leave enough room for a heat pump whether you install one right away or in the future. All of our equipment is labeled for your convenience. The specific placement for your equipment will be determined by you and your designer.

Step 17 – Interior Surface

The pool shell is chemically treated, prepped with a waterproofing agent, and cleaned prior to installation of the interior finish. Your step diamonds, step markers, and any mosaics are installed during this step. Our crew hand trowels the finish to the pool shell. We offer various color options of Stone Scapes Pebble finishes as our standard finish. You also have the option to upgrade your interior to a polished finish if that suits your needs. Both options come with a limited lifetime warranty that we back the labor on. Your design consultant will help you choose the color and material from one of the many offered in our showroom.

Step 18 – Pool Fill & Start-Up

Your new pool will be filled using your garden hose directly from your house or well immediately after the acid wash of the interior finish has been completed. A typical pool takes 24 – 30 hours to fill. It is normal for your water to look green for the first few days.

EcoWorks has a certified start-up tech who will do a “soft start-up”. They will care for the pool for a period of approximately 30 days until the pool is completely balanced.

Step 19 – Pool School

Now it is time to teach you how to care for and maintain your beautiful new pool. A member of our service staff will schedule an appointment with you at your property to explain the process of operating your EcoWorks Pool. They will also bring out your maintenance kit (pole, brush, and skimmer net), which are included in your pool purchase.

Step 20 – Relax and Enjoy!