As soon as summertime comes, everyone wants to have a splash in the swimming pool. Have you ever heard of inground swimming pools that are a great addition to any backyard? They provide a place for relaxation, exercise, and entertainment for the whole family. However, constructing an inground pool is a complex process that requires careful planning and high-quality materials. This article will discuss the construction materials used for swimming pools and their role in construction.
Steps Followed for the Construction of Inground Swimming Pools
There is a specific process followed by professionals for constructing swimming pools:
Step 1
The first step in constructing inground swimming pools is to excavate the area where the pool will be located. This process involves removing soil and other materials to create a hole in the ground that is the same shape and size as the pool. The soil type and depth of the excavation will depend on the location and design of the pool. In general, clay soils are the most difficult to excavate and require heavy equipment. Sand and loam soils are easier to excavate and can be done with a smaller excavator or a backhoe.
Step 2
Once the excavation is complete, the next step is to install the pool shell. The pool shell is the structural component of the pool that holds the water and provides the shape of the pool. Several materials can be used to construct the pool shell, including concrete, gunite, and fibreglass.
Materials Used in the Construction of Swimming Pools
Concrete
Concrete is the most common material used for pool shells. It is a strong and durable material that can be poured into any shape. Running a concrete pool shell involves creating a formwork around the excavation and then pouring the concrete into the formwork. Once the concrete has been poured and cured, the formwork is removed, and the pool shell is ready for the next step.
Gunite
Gunite is another material that can be used to construct a pool shell. It is a mixture of cement and sand sprayed onto the excavation using a special gunite machine. The gunite mixture is then troweled to create a smooth surface. Gunite is a popular choice for pool shells because it is strong and durable and can be shaped into any form.
Fibreglass
Fibreglass is a third material used to construct a pool shell. It is a pre-formed shell made from a mould and then placed into the excavation.
Fibreglass pools are known for their durability, ease of maintenance, and resistance to damage from chemicals and other environmental factors. However, they are less customisable than concrete or gunite pools and typically have a limited range of shapes and sizes.
Plumbing
Once the pool shell is installed, the next step is to install the plumbing and electrical systems. These systems are critical to the proper operation of the pool and include the circulation system, filtration system, and pool lighting. The circulation system is responsible for moving the water through the pool and keeping it clean. The filtration system is responsible for removing dirt and other debris from the water. The pool lighting is responsible for illuminating the pool at night.
The plumbing and electrical systems are typically installed after the pool shell is in place. They are connected to the pool shell using a variety of pipes and fittings. The tubes are usually made from PVC or other plastic materials, and the fittings are made from brass or other metals. The plumbing and electrical systems are then connected to the main water and electrical supply to ensure that the pool has a constant supply of water and electricity.
Wrapping Up
The construction of inground swimming pools requires various materials and must be installed under the guidance of professionals to ensure their structural integrity, durability, and aesthetic appeal. The choice of materials will depend on location, climate, and the homeowner’s preferences. Concrete and gunite are the most commonly used materials for pool construction, as they offer strength and durability.