How Are Concrete Pools Constructed?

Concrete pools offer a level of customization not available in other pool types like fiberglass and vinyl liner. They’re also more expensive to install and require more time to maintain but can add value to your home as well as a luxurious feel for swimming and lounging around.

Unlike vinyl and fiberglass pools which are premade in various shapes and sizes, a concrete pool is built in-house from the ground up. Depending on the complexity of the design, it can take anywhere from 12 to 16 weeks to complete your concrete pool. While this may seem like a long wait, remember that it will be worth it in the end. A concrete pool can last a lifetime, increasing the value of your property and creating an elegant aesthetic that will impress guests and family members.

Once the engineering and permits are in place, construction can begin. The team will perform various measurements and mark out the “footprint” of your concrete pool. This will help the crew to make sure that the pool is in the correct spot within your yard and will be able to be accommodated by the fencing, landscaping and any other paved areas you have planned.

Next, the site will be excavated and steel reinforcement is added (also known as rebar) to the pool’s walls. This is a very important step to ensure that your pool has the structural integrity necessary to withstand the pressure from the thousands of gallons of water it will hold in the future. Once the rebar is in place, a mixture called gunite or shotcrete is sprayed on to form your pool shell. This is a mixture of cement and sand that is a form of concrete.

After the gunite is sprayed, it is hand troweled to achieve a smooth surface. This step is very important because it allows the builders to inspect for any blemishes or imperfections in the finished pool. Any blemishes that are found at this point can be repaired before the concrete sets up, making any repairs much easier to do.

Once the gunite is set, it will be backfilled with soil (called backfill), compacted and leveled as much as possible. This will give the pool a stable base and prevent the concrete from cracking when filled with water.

Because of their durability and elegance, concrete pools are a popular choice for luxury homes and high-end developments. They require more attention to maintenance than other types of pools such as vinyl and fiberglass pools but, with a proper care and cleaning plan, they can last a lifetime. The rough interior of a concrete pool harbors algae growth but, with proper acid washing and chemical levels, this can be kept to a minimum. They also require more regular cleaning than other pool types because the concrete itself can harbor bacteria as well as cause tender feet. These problems can be avoided with the use of a proper pool maintenance and care plan that is regularly followed by our experts.

source https://ezylivingpools1.wordpress.com/2025/06/19/how-are-concrete-pools-constructed-2/