Are you looking forward to having a swimming pool? The idea of a crystal clear, delightful pool is exciting, but the process of swimming pool construction in Dubai can be daunting for most people. To put your mind at ease and help you prepare, we’ve put together a simple breakdown of pool excavation—one of the most significant aspects of the building process.
Before The Splashes and Laps: Steps in Pool Excavation
First things first: know that a swimming pool is a massive change. Even if you are aiming for a small pool, it’s still going to take up your money, time, and space. Installing a custom swimming pool in your backyard is both enjoyable and some hassle—but only for a while!
That said, ease up and look forward to some excitement! Here is a step-by-step guide on what to expect during pool excavation. Read on!
1. Complete Soil Test for Ground Assessment
Before your swimming pool contractor begins laying the groundwork, they’ll have to test the soil. The key purpose the pros will conduct pool digging preparation is to know how to set the foundation for the pool since every soil has a different composition.
The soil in your backyard will directly affect the pool in many ways:
- Sand, gravel, clay, and various organic matter change the way the soil erodes.
- Certain soil types are more susceptible to water accumulation.
- The soil may be expansive (i.e. increases in volume when in contact with water.
Your builder will take suitable measures to deal with any soil issues that come forward. For example, a deeper foundation is necessary for expansive soil.
2. Permits and Utilities Considerations
In many parts of the world including the UAE, both residential and commercial properties need permission from specific authorities if they want to build a pool—and resultantly conduct pool excavation.
The pool digging process is fairly invasive, one that may even affect surrounding houses or buildings. Hence, you need permits before the work begins—not just for building a pool from scratch but also if you want to renovate and rebuild your swimming pool. No worries, as you just need the right paperwork and some guidance from your pool contractors.
Another basic measure is to call the local authorities concerning underground utilities (e.g. water and gas pipes). The official in your area will mark the utility line on your property to ensure safe excavation.
3. Deciding Pool Shape and Size
Once you’re past the permissions and tests, experience a fun step of the pool excavation process: the design of your pool!
Out of the décor magazines and onto your property, you can debate about pool design with your contractor. Here are some popular pool shape ideas:
- Rectangular Pool: Straight and minimal, perfect for taking laps for training.
- L-Shape Pool: Ideal for a tricky yard shape and the need to utilize the maximum space possible.
- Oval Pools: A classic mix of straight edges with rounded lines which looks very appealing.
- Roman Pool: Comprises one or two arched ends with rounded corners, perfect for stairs.
Remember, your contractor will need to measure the space and check if the size and shape are possible. Thus, make sure you’re happy with your choice before digging begins!
4. The Main Digging Process!
Now for the messy and noisy, but also kind of interesting part: the actual excavation of the ground. Although any kids or pets you have around will have a great time experiencing a home swimming pool digging, make sure to keep an eye to ensure everybody remains safe.
Other considerations for pool excavation include making sure there is enough yard space for all the dirt and debris. Additionally, delay any important stuff that requires the use of your outdoor space.
Typically, an efficient team will take about a day or two to dig the pit for a standard-size pool. Factors like large size complex shape, and any unforeseen ground obstructions can extend the complete excavation time. But it’s worth it to wait for the final reward!
5. Use of Heavy Excavation Equipment
Aside from manual digging, your construction team may also use heavy machinery for the complex parts of the swimming pool excavation process. This is why experts advise never to dig your own pool. You never know what ground issues you come across that require you to get heavy equipment, and that can be expensive to get and use.
Pool excavation typically starts with heavy machinery to dig and form a pit suitable for your chosen pool design. That is why reliability is an important quality to look for in a swimming pool construction company, to ensure minimal disturbance to your landscaping.
Tip: Consider investing in some good noise-cancellation headphones if you work from home!
6. Unexpected Issues Along the Way
While you may be looking forward to smooth sailing when it comes to the pool excavation process, do expect some hindrances. There’s always a chance of a few surprising issues with the soil and overall ground despite soil tests and other examinations.
For example, your contractor may encounter unstable soil in a few areas or large underground rocks. In most cases, the total excavation time will be longer for precision digging and to ensure a stable foundation for your pool.
7. Cleanup and Prepping the Pit
You will face a LOT of dirt at the end of the excavation process—but you don’t have to worry when you have a diligent swimming pool construction team by your side!
Nevertheless, make sure you discuss cleaning in advance to avoid the hassle of dealing with a large pile of dirt in your yard. That said, know that your contractor will intentionally leave behind some soil for leveling, backfilling, and any deck installation in the upcoming days.
Once the clean-up is over, your pool building team will smoothen out the pool walls and sides. And your pool is ready for the actual building process!
Experience Safe and Efficient Pool Excavation with SwimBox!
Let us turn your pool dreams into reality! From excavation and design to tiling and equipment installation, we handle all aspects of your swimming pool with the utmost professionalism. Our track record of building custom pools for happy clients all over Dubai speaks for itself!
Reach out to SwimBox at +971 50 509 6580 to schedule a visit from our pool technicians and start your swimming pool’s excavation process in no time!