Pool Construction
Design, execution, and cost for building a swimming pool. El-Eman Office provides surveying and construction for pools.
Choose the pool type before comparing quotes
The cost of building a swimming pool depends heavily on the type of construction. A concrete pool cast on site is the most flexible in shape and depth, but takes longest to build. There are also ready-made pools with fibre shells or panels, which install faster but offer less flexibility in shape and size. It also matters whether the pool is set level with the ground or partly raised, and whether it is indoors, needing ventilation and humidity control, or outdoors and open. There is no point comparing two quotes before making sure they are for the same type of construction.
Construction errors that show up after operation
The most serious pool problems are leaks, levelness and groundwater. If waterproofing is not tight, damp and damage appear in nearby floors and walls. If the pool edge is not accurately level, the water looks tilted and the overflow slots do not work properly. If the groundwater level is high and the pool is emptied for maintenance, the pressure can push it upward and crack it. The groundwater level should therefore be taken into account, and the edge levelness checked with a level after casting and before tiling.
- A water-holding test, filling the pool before tiling to confirm there is no water loss.
- Checking the positions of openings and pipes before casting, to avoid breaking out concrete afterwards.
- Setting the floor slopes correctly toward the drain point.
Running costs that get forgotten
The cost does not end when the pool is handed over. Pumps and filters use electricity, chemicals must be bought repeatedly, and water renewal and periodic replacement of sand or filters are needed. The pool also needs fencing, safety equipment and night lighting, and perhaps heating if winter use is wanted. When comparing options, think about operating and maintenance cost over several years, not only construction cost.
- Decide on the use: family leisure, sport or a commercial facility.
- Choose a site away from leaf-shedding trees and buried services.
- Ask for details of the filtration system and pumps in the quote.
- Agree a written testing and handover period.
Safety and surrounding requirements
A swimming pool carries direct safety responsibility, especially where children are present. Fences, covers or alarm systems are considered from the start, along with non-slip surrounds, graded depths and clear depth markings. Distances between the pool and the building, the boundary and buried services are respected, and public facilities are subject to stricter health and rescue requirements. Emptying the pool needs a suitable place for the water that does not harm neighbours or networks, and it helps to fix this on the plan together with the levels needed for the water to flow.
Frequently asked questions
Can a pool be built over a basement or close to a building?
It can, provided a structural study accounts for loads, waterproofing and a safe distance from other foundations. The decision should not be left to the builder's judgement alone.
What should be checked before excavation?
The type of soil, the groundwater level, the positions of buried services, and the surrounding levels and ground slopes.
How much maintenance is needed?
Maintenance is regular and frequent in proportion to use, and includes water testing, cleaning filters and checking equipment.
