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Swimming pool installation is an essential step for a safe and enjoyable swimming experience, whether at home, at clubs, or in resorts. With the increasing demand for pool construction, it has become essential to understand the elements of optimal pool installation, including design, technical systems, and the selection of appropriate materials. In this article, we’ll review the most important stages of pool installation, from planning to operation, with a focus on best practices to ensure the highest levels of quality and safety. If you’re looking for a comprehensive guide to installing a long-lasting swimming pool that offers a unique experience, you’ve come to the right place.

Also learn how to build playgrounds by reading our next article!

Steps to build multi-purpose playgrounds; key uses and tips

What are the steps to implement a swimming pool?

Installing a swimming pool is an engineering project that requires careful planning and sequential stages to ensure quality construction and safe use. The process of installing a swimming pool begins with selecting a suitable location, followed by excavation, followed by the preparation of infrastructure, including plumbing and electrical systems, and finally, insulation and interior and exterior finishing. Each step is essential for a complete pool that meets aesthetic and technical standards. Learn more about installing a swimming pool step by step below:

1. Determine the location and design of the swimming pool.

This step is one of the most important stages of swimming pool preparation, as it lays the foundation upon which the entire project is built. It includes the following:

• Choosing the right location:
  1. The location should be exposed to sunlight to reduce the coldness of the water.
  2. Stay away from trees to prevent leaves from falling into the pool.
  3. Check that there is adequate infrastructure on the land, such as no drainage or electrical networks below the site.
• Determine the type of pool:
  1. Inground or above ground pool?
  2. Small private pool or large Olympic pool?
  3. Indoor or outdoor pool?
• Architectural design preparation:
  1. Determine the dimensions (length, width, depth) in proportion to the land area and the purpose of use (entertainment, training, professional swimming).
  2. Select the geometric shape (rectangular, circular, freeform).
  3. Locate filters, pumps, stairs, lighting, and sidelights.
• Preparing engineering drawings:
  1. Developing structural and architectural plans.
  2. Determine the route of the supply and drainage network.
  3. Locate control devices and electrical panels.
• Obtaining the necessary licenses:
  In some cases, installing swimming pools requires approval from the municipality or relevant authorities, especially in tourist facilities or clubs.

2. Swimming pool excavation works

After the pool design is completed and its location determined, the next stage in preparing swimming pools begins: excavation work. This is one of the most important stages that affects the accuracy of implementation and the stability of the structure. It includes:

• Determine dimensions on the ground
  1. The perimeter of the pool is first marked out on the ground using pegs and string to determine the final shape and exact placement of the walls.
  2. The level is used to adjust the required levels and slopes for water drainage.
• Start drilling
  1. Mechanical excavation equipment (such as excavators or bulldozers) is used to excavate the earth to the required depth, which varies depending on the design (often from 1 meter to 2.5 meters).
  2. The underlying layers are taken into consideration. If unstable rocks or soil are found, they are treated or replaced with suitable layers.
• bottom leveling
  1. After digging is complete, the floor of the hole is leveled and the soil is compacted well to avoid any future subsidence.
  2. A layer of sand or gravel is often placed at the bottom of the pool as a preliminary base.
• Drilling waste disposal
  Drilling waste (backfill) is transported off-site or reused elsewhere on the project as needed.
• Ground Testing:
  In some cases, the contractor conducts ground tests to ensure that it can support the concrete structure and prevent future water leakage.

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3. Preparing the base and foundations

This step is one of the most important structural stages in preparing swimming pools, as it ensures the long-term stability of the pool. It includes the following works:

• Cleaning brush (plain concrete)
  1. After leveling the ground and compacting the soil well, a layer of plain concrete (approximately 10-15 cm thick) known as the “cleaning bed” is poured.
  2. This layer helps level the final surface and provides a clean base for building the concrete structure of the pool.
• Initial insulation works (optional)
  1. In some projects, a primer layer of waterproofing (such as bitumen rolls or a polyethylene layer) is applied over the cleaning mat to protect the base from moisture.
  2. The insulation layer should be applied before installing the iron so that it is not damaged during construction.
• Reinforcing the iron base (rebar)
  1. A reinforcing steel mesh is placed at the bottom according to the structural design.
  2. The ironwork is placed on plastic or concrete “crackers” to raise it off the ground and ensure it is encased in concrete.
• Pouring the reinforced concrete base
  1. Reinforced concrete is poured into the pool base with a thickness ranging from 15 to 30 cm (depending on the design).
  2. Ensure that your concrete is thoroughly compacted using a vibrator to avoid voids or cavities within the base.
• Preparing the anchor points for the walls
  While pouring the foundation, the anchor points for the vertical walls of the pool are prepared, either using crushed steel or using specialized anchors.

4. Installation of plumbing and electrical networks

This step is one of the most important infrastructure stages when designing a swimming pool. It involves implementing systems that control water movement and purification, in addition to lighting fixtures and any electrical systems. These include:

• Plumbing works (water systems)
  • Installation of supply and drainage pipes:
    1. Clean water supply pipes are installed and connected to the water tank or automatic filling system.
    2. Drain pipes are located to drain water from the bottom of the pool or through side openings.
  • Installing skimmers or overflows:
    Depending on the type of pool system (skimmer or overflow), skimmers or overflow drains are installed to collect surface dirt.
  • Connecting filters and pumps:
    1. Prepare the locations of the filter unit and pump (engine room) and connect them to the pipes extending from the tank.
    2. The unit includes: sand filter, pump, diverter valve, and possibly a chlorine unit or heater.
  • Network Testing:
    The water network is pressure tested to ensure there are no leaks before pouring the concrete walls.
• Electrical works
  • Lighting cable extension:
    • Waterproof lighting cables are extended into the aquarium, ensuring complete protection from moisture.
    • LED lights are used underwater or side lights depending on the design.
  • Connecting control systems:
    In some pools, electronic control systems are installed to operate the lighting, pump, heater, or fountains.
  • Grounding and electrical protection:
    • It is necessary to implement an earth grounding system to ensure the safety of users from electric shock.
    • A circuit breaker (life breaker) is installed to ensure maximum safety.

5. Pouring reinforced concrete (pool walls)

After the plumbing and electrical work is completed, and pipes and cables are installed inside the pool, the next step in preparing a swimming pool begins: pouring the reinforced concrete walls. This is a crucial step in ensuring the strength and stability of the pool structure. This step is carried out as follows:

• Preparing the side forms (tensioners)
  1. Wooden or metal supports are installed around the perimeter of the pool to form the walls.
  2. Forms are securely fastened to prevent leakage or expansion during concrete pouring.
  3. Ensure that there are adequate openings for pipes, skimmers and other connections inside the walls.
• Reinforcing steel walls (reinforcing steel)
  1. Vertical and horizontal reinforcement are connected according to the construction drawings, and in a manner that integrates with the previously poured foundation.
  2. The iron rods must intersect and be well connected to ensure that the walls are firmly attached to the base.
  3. Expansion joints are placed if necessary to prevent future cracks.
• Pouring concrete
  1. Reinforced concrete is poured into the side forms, taking into account:
  2. Use a concrete pump to reach all points.
  3. Compact the concrete well with a vibrator to ensure there are no air gaps.
  4. Be careful not to move pipes or cables during pouring.
• Curing
  1. After pouring, the concrete is treated with water to prevent cracking and ensure maximum strength.
  2. It is recommended to spray water regularly on the walls for at least 7 days.
• Unmould
  1. The side forms are removed after ensuring that the concrete has dried and reached the required degree of consolidation (usually after 48–72 hours).
  2. After dismantling, the walls are inspected for any defects or gaps and addressed immediately.

6. Pool waterproofing

Waterproofing is one of the most important steps in preparing swimming pools. It protects the concrete structure from water leakage, prolongs the life of the pool, and prevents cracks or structural damage. This step is carried out according to the following criteria:

• Surface cleaning
  1. Before starting insulation, the concrete surface is completely cleaned of dust, oils, and wood or iron residues.
  2. Small joints and gaps are treated using flexible cement mortar or a special pool insulation paste.
• Choosing the type of insulation material
  1. Several systems are used in insulation, the most famous of which are:
  2. Cementitious Waterproofing:
  3. Mix with water or binder.
  4. It is applied by brush or roller to the concrete surface.
  5. Usually used in two perpendicular coats to ensure full coverage.
• Polymeric or epoxy insulation:
  1. A liquid material that is applied after mixing, and gives a smooth, water-resistant surface.
  2. Ideal for indoor pools or pools that need extra protection from chemicals.
• Insulation using bitumen or PVC rolls:
  1. Used in large projects, it is fixed to walls and floors.
  2. You need installation experience and heat welding equipment.
• Applying insulation layers
  1. The selected material is applied evenly over the entire surface of the basin (floor and walls).
  2. Cross layers (horizontally and vertically) are recommended to ensure maximum coverage.
  3. It is preferable to apply two or more layers depending on the type and thickness of the material.
• Insulation test
  1. After the layers have dried, a water filling test is performed for 48–72 hours.
  2. The water level is monitored daily to ensure there are no leaks.
  3. In the event of a leak, the affected area is re-treated before proceeding with the finishing touches.

7. Pool waterproofing

Waterproofing is one of the most important steps in swimming pool construction. It protects the concrete structure from water leakage, prolongs the life of the pool, and prevents cracks or structural damage. This step is carried out according to the following criteria:

• Surface cleaning
  1. Before starting insulation, the concrete surface is completely cleaned of dust, oils, and wood or iron residues.
  2. Small joints and gaps are treated using flexible cement mortar or a special pool insulation paste.
• Choosing the type of insulation material
  depends on several insulation systems, the most famous of which are:
  1. Cementitious Waterproofing:
     • Mix with water or binder.
     • It is applied by brush or roller to the concrete surface.
     • Usually used in two perpendicular coats to ensure full coverage.
  2. Polymeric or epoxy insulation:
     • A liquid material that is applied after mixing, and gives a smooth, water-resistant surface.
     • Ideal for indoor pools or pools that need extra protection from chemicals.
  3. Insulation using bitumen or PVC rolls:
     • Used in large projects, it is fixed to walls and floors.
     • You need installation experience and heat welding equipment.
• Applying insulation layers
  1. The selected material is applied evenly over the entire surface of the basin (floor and walls).
  2. Cross layers (horizontally and vertically) are recommended to ensure maximum coverage.
  3. It is preferable to apply two or more layers depending on the type and thickness of the material.
• Insulation test
  1. After the layers have dried, a water filling test is performed for 48–72 hours.
  2. The water level is monitored daily to ensure there are no leaks.
  3. In the event of a leak, the affected area is re-treated before proceeding with the finishing touches.

8. Filling the pool and operating the systems

After the completion of the insulation and interior finishing work, the operational phase of the swimming pool preparation process begins. This serves as a final test of the pool’s systems and prepares it for actual use. This step in swimming pool preparation includes the following:

• Cleaning the sink
  1. The floor and walls of the pool are cleaned of any dust or residue of finishing materials.
  2. Special pool cleaners can be used to ensure the surface is free of sediment before filling the pool with water.
• Fill the pool with water
  1. The pool is gradually filled with clean, fresh water.
  2. It is recommended to monitor the water during filling to ensure the finish is intact and there are no leaks.
  3. Make sure the drain and filter holes are closed or adjusted before starting.
• Operation of pumps and filtration systems
  1. After the pool is sufficiently filled, the:
  2. Water pump to pump water through the filter.
  3. Sand or cardboard filter to purify water from impurities.
  4. Heating system (if equipped), to test its performance.
  5. All hydraulic and electrical networks are ensured to be operating properly without any faults or leaks.
• Water chemistry testing and adjustment:
  Testing is performed for levels of:
  1. Chlorine (for sterilization).
  2. pH (to protect skin and eyes).
  3. Alkalinity and hardness to ensure balance.
  4. Chemicals are added as needed to achieve safe and healthy swimming water.
• Lighting and accessories testing
  1. The lighting is tested underwater and ensured to be safe.
  2. Check the operation of skimmers, overflow, fountains, or waterfalls, if installed.
  3. Test control systems (manual or smart), if available.

10 Finishing the outdoor area and beautifying the pool area

After the interior of the swimming pool is fully equipped and the systems are operational, the next stage is to finish and beautify the surrounding areas, adding an aesthetic touch and enhancing the user experience and comfort. This step includes the following:

• The flooring surrounding the pool
  is made of slip-resistant and weather-resistant materials such as:
  1. Exterior tiles (interlocking or rough porcelain).
  2. Treated wood (decking).
  3. Stamped or printed concrete.
  4. The slope of the flooring should be directed away from the pool to allow proper drainage of rainwater or washing.
• Build a fence or safety barrier (if needed)
  1. In home or public pools, it is recommended to install a safety fence or safety gate to protect children.
  2. The fence can be made of stainless steel or painted iron.
• Outdoor lighting installation
  1. Floor or wall lights are installed around the pool to increase safety at night and to provide aesthetic lighting.
  2. Smart lighting can be controlled remotely or via phone.
• Garden and landscape coordination
  1. Plant plants that are suitable for the climate and do not shed their leaves profusely.
  2. Create shaded seating areas, such as wooden seating, umbrellas, or pergolas.
  3. Add artificial waterfalls or decorative fountains to enhance the aesthetic value.
• Equip with additional facilities (optional)
  1. Installation of sunbeds and side tables.
  2. Create a small stall for changing clothes or an outdoor shower.
  3. Add an external audio system or TV as desired by the user.