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Begin planning
early, don't wait until the sun shines!! The planning process
should begin several months before your anticipated
completion date.
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Obtain a bid for
your project from the pool builder(s) you have selected.
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Based upon your
comfort level (more important than "low bid"), make a decision on
which builder you are going to proceed with.
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Have the builder
provide a detailed plan. This may require a deposit due to the time
involved in providing this plan. A substantial deposit may
also be required to hold your spot in the queue.
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Obtain permits.
Many builders will charge for their time to apply for the permits
and some builders encourage the homeowner obtain the permits.
This is one way that the homeowner can keep costs down. It is
a fairly simple process but can be quite time consuming depending on
the county permitting office.
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Be prepared for
delays in permitting. There are often obstacles that crop up
during the permitting process. Most of them can be overcome
but will delay your project. This is another reason to begin
the planning and permitting process early!
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Once permits are in
hand, the project can begin. Large excavating equipment is used to
dig the specs for the pool. Your yard will become a
construction site. Expect it to look like a construction site.
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A gunite pool will
take 6 - 8 weeks to complete (sometimes longer depending upon the
extent of the project). A vinyl lined pool will typically take 3 - 6
weeks once ground is broken. There are occasionally delays that are
out of the builder's control so be prepared for them.
Screaming at the builder won't make the pool go in any faster and
it's important to maintain a good relationship! A good builder
will keep you informed, show up when he says he'll be there, and
keep the project running smoothly.
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In Pierce County
(and most surrounding counties) a fence is required in order to pass
the final inspection. You will typically need a five foot high fence
with self-closing, self-latching gates (which must open away from
the pool). Make sure you understand the code requirements before
selecting your fencing material.
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Once the vessel and
deck are in place and water is in the pool, your builder should
provide you with a detailed analysis of your water and a one-on-one
orientation to your pool, equipment, and chemical maintenance
program.
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Now..get in and start
enjoying many, many years of recreation, exercise, and family fun!
