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Your New Inground Pool: Step by Step

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Thinking about installing an inground pool?  At Harpeth Valley Hardscapes, that’s one of our specialties! We’ve put together a list of steps to give you an idea of what you can expect during the installation of your new pool or spa.

1) Check With ZoningInground swimming pools are subject to building and zoning regulations like any other home-improvement project. Rules differ from town to town, but ordinarily you must satisfy certain setback distances from the pool to property lines, septic tanks, wells, sewer lines, wetlands and the like. There are also codes concerning pool barriers and gate hardware. Therefore, you must apply for a building permit and receive approval before any work can begin.

2) Choose your pool – Harpeth Valley Hardscapes we specializes in gunite,vinyl and fiberglass pool installations.

3) Choose your accessories – A whirlpool spa, slide, diving board(s), water features, bench seats and/or utility shed are among popular options.

4) Choose a Circulation System – The pool’s circulation system is what keeps the water clean and clear using both filtration and sanitization. The heart of the filtration system is the pump, which draws water from the pool’s bottom drains, sends the surface water through an automatic skimmer, and then passes everything through a filter before recirculating it to the pool. The three types of filters commonly used are sand, cartridge and diatomaceous earth (DE). All three types of filters work well when properly installed and well maintained. Harpeth Valley Hardscapes can help you decide which filtration system is best for your pool

5) Site the Pool – Picking the proper spot for your inground pool is as important as the pool itself. An experienced pool contractor like Harpeth Valley Hardscapes can provide valuable insights. After you’ve made your choice, a representative will stake out your new pool prior to excavation, based on your custom design.

6) Excavation – Usually only takes about one full working day, depending upon the complexity of the project.

7) Plumbing – Equipment to clean and purify your pool will be installed. Based on your location, this may be performed before or after the shell of the pool is formed.

8) Skeleton – Steel-reinforcing rods are placed inside the excavation, along the bottom, up the sides, into the bond beam, and around the skimmers. Firmly wired together, these rods add to the strength and long life of your pool shell.

9) Inspections – At various points throughout the construction of your pool, inspections will be performed by your project manager as well as local building authorities.

10) Shell construction – A concrete mixture is pneumatically applied under great pressure to bond tightly around the steel reinforcing rods. This results in a reinforced steel and concrete pool of superior strength.

11) Curing – After we have “shot” the pool, you will be asked to spray a fine mist of water from your garden hose several times a day for about a week. This process is called curing and it enhances the strength of your pool shell.

12) Coping – Our craftsman install the coping – or the “lip” of your pool – around the pool’s perimeter. Some options are safety-grip brick, stone or white pre-cast concrete. Also, in some pools, cantilevered decks that extend right to the pool’s edge are used instead of coping.

13) Tile – The tile is installed along what will be the waterline of the interior of the pool. Tiles are available in a wide variety of colors and designs.

14) Electrical – Licensed electricians hook into your main electric service and connect your filtration and lighting systems. An inspection of the final work will be needed.

15) Gas Lines – If your pool has a gas-fueled heater, gas lines will be installed.

16) Decking – The decking that surrounds your pool can be concrete, brick, stone, grass or many other materials. This is the final stage before the pool shell finish is applied and it’s ready to be filled.

17) Fencing – Most communities require that you provide a fence and latched gate around your new pool. Your consultant will help to familiarize you with the local requirements. Before we can proceed, your fencing may have to be completed and inspected by local authorities.

18) Waterproof Finish – Our crews will now cover the surface of the pool with a durable waterproof finish that seals it and provides a beautiful finishing touch.

19) Pool Start-up – Water from your garden hose or other source will be used to fill your pool. Once filled, we will come to your home to start up the equipment and show you exactly how the equipment works and what chemicals are needed. This is the time to ask questions on maintaining your pool.
20) Get in the Swim!

At Harpeth Valley Hardscapes we focus on building relationships with our clients to help create unique outdoor environments for their homes and businesses. With over twenty years of experience specializing in pool construction and the hardscape industry we are your Middle Tennessee inground pool installation experts. If you are considering installing an inground pool, or any other backyard improvements call  Harpeth Valley Hardscapes today at (615) 236-8610. We look forward to hearing from you!

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