Pool Construction 101

At JP Pools, we are expert pool builders specializing in high-quality pool construction, offering exceptional craftsmanship in gunite application, tile, pebble finishes, pavers, rebar, and plumbing. Below is a comprehensive breakdown of how each component is installed, ensuring a luxurious pool design that is both durable and long-lasting.

Gunite is a high-strength, spray-applied concrete mixture that forms the structural shell of your pool, making it an ideal choice for luxury pool designs. Its unmatched durability allows for the construction of custom shapes and designs during the pool installation process. 

Gunite Installation Process:

• Excavation & Framing – The pool area is carefully excavated, and temporary framing is set up to define the shape.  

• Rebar Installation – A steel rebar grid is placed throughout the pool to reinforce the structure.  

• Gunite Application – A pressurized hose sprays a mix of cement and sand, which is hydrated at the nozzle to create a thick concrete coating.  

• Shotcrete Spraying – A pressurized hose sprays a concrete mix with all the aggregate already hydrated and mixed; once it is sprayed, it is ready to create a thick concrete coating.  

• Shaping & Smoothing – Skilled technicians sculpt and smooth the gunite before it hardens.  

• Curing Process – The gunite cures over 7 to 14 days, requiring daily watering to ensure proper curing and prevent cracking.

During pool construction, particularly in luxury pool designs, a water line tile adds both beauty and protection to your pool’s interior. The process of pool installation includes: 

• Surface Preparation – The gunite application involves cleaning and prepping the gunite surface for proper adhesion.  

• Applying Thin-Set Mortar – A high-strength bonding mortar is then applied.  

• Tile Placement – Each tile is carefully aligned to achieve a seamless look.  

• Grouting – Waterproof grout is applied to fill any gaps and secure the tiles.  

• Final Sealing & Curing – The grout is cured to enhance durability.

Pebble finishes are a premium pool interior finish for pool builders, providing a natural, textured look alongside enhanced durability, making them ideal for luxury pool designs.  

Pebble Installation Process:  

• Mixing the Pebble Finish – A combination of natural pebbles, cement, and bonding agents is prepared, which is essential during the gunite application.  

• Application – The mixture is sprayed and hand-applied over the pool shell surface, ensuring a robust base for the finish.  

• Smoothing & Exposing Pebbles – Technicians use a water wash technique to expose the pebbles, creating a slip-resistant surface that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.  

• Curing & Acid Wash – The finish is left to cure, then acid washed to remove any slur, ensuring a flawless appearance.  

Pebble finishes come in various colors and aggregate sizes, offering a luxurious, long-lasting surface that enhances any pool installation.

Rebar serves as the structural backbone of your pool installation, ensuring strength and longevity for luxury pool designs.  

Rebar Installation Process:  

• Rebar Grid Placement – Steel bars are arranged in a grid pattern, typically spaced 8-12 inches apart.  

• Tying & Securing – The rebar is tied together to prevent shifting.  

• Inspection & Approval – The structure is inspected before the gunite application is carried out.  

Rebar reinforcement is crucial, as it prevents cracks, leaks, and structural failures over time.

A properly installed plumbing system is essential for efficient water circulation, filtration, and heating, which is particularly important in luxury pool designs. 

Plumbing Installation Steps: 

• Trenching & Pipe Placement – Trenches are dug around the pool perimeter, and schedule 40 PVC pipes are laid for durability. 

• Main Drain, Skimmer, & Return Line Installation – 

• Main drains pull water from the pool for filtration. 

• Skimmers remove debris from the water’s surface. 

• Return lines circulate clean water back into the pool. 

• Pressure Testing – The plumbing is tested for leaks before the gunite application. 

• Equipment Hookup – Pipes are connected to the pump, filter, and heater system for optimal performance during pool installation.

The Hardscapes is the area surrounding the pool that enhances the overall aesthetic, especially after the gunite application. We prefer using materials like travertine stone, marble, pavers, and other natural stone products. These choices bring vibrant color to your luxury pool designs and represent one of the final steps in the pool installation process.

It is now time to start up your swimming pool after the gunite application has been completed. Once the pool is acid washed and filled with water, the pool equipment begins to function, and your first round of maintenance during the pool installation will begin. This ensures that your pH levels are balanced and that everything is in working condition, allowing you to start enjoying your luxury pool designs!