Location and site conditions
Consider sunlight, wind, trees, boundaries, buried services and machinery access when choosing the location.
Pool Explained
Planning the work
How do you plan pool construction and installation?
Coordinate the position, levels, base, drainage and services before excavation. Check each stage before backfilling or adding the next layer, while the work is still visible.
Main guides
Four guides for the main stages of work
Start with site preparation and services, then inspect construction stage by stage. Below-ground installation of an above-ground pool has its own guide because not every model is suitable.
Step 1
Site preparation
Check the location, access, soil, levels and drainage before excavation and base preparation begin.
Learn more Step 2Pool plumbing and electrical installation
Plan pipes, valves, electrics, drainage and equipment space while routes are easy to change.
Learn more InspectionInstallation mistakes
Inspect work from the contract stage to handover, especially before foundations and pipework are covered.
Learn more Specialist designInstalling an above-ground or DWF pool below ground
Check when below-ground installation is permitted and how an independent retaining wall can keep soil and decking loads off the pool.
Learn moreProject planning
What to agree before construction starts
Poor drainage can undermine the base and structure. Choosing equipment too late can mean longer pipe runs and difficult maintenance access.
Structure and base
Pool type determines excavation, base preparation, reinforcement, backfilling and protection from groundwater.
Plumbing and electrics
Plan skimmers, returns, pipes, cables, drainage and equipment before the structure and paving hide them.
Surrounds and service access
Paving must drain rainwater away, provide safe access and leave enough room for routine servicing.
Inspecting the work
What to check before backfilling and finishing
Check pipes, cables, drainage and the base while you can see them. Mistakes can then be corrected without digging up finished paving.
- 1Confirm the pool type, dimensions and levels before setting out and excavation.
- 2Record ground conditions, existing services and plans for surface water and groundwater drainage.
- 3Coordinate construction, plumbing and electrical plans before contractors begin.
- 4Test pipework, joints, penetrations and electrical protection while everything is visible and accessible.
- 5Photograph work before it is covered, including measurements, and keep manuals, warranties and equipment details.
- 6Complete handover with a test run, a valve demonstration and a written list of any outstanding defects.
Pool structure
Installation methods differ by pool type
General guidance helps you plan, but the design and manufacturer's instructions determine the base, structure and assembly details.
Above-ground and DWF pools
Find out when a pool must not be buried and how separate retaining walls and decking can create a similar appearance.
Learn moreConcrete pools
Coordinate the structure, penetrations, waterproofing and finish from the start.
Learn moreFibreglass pools
Check delivery access for the shell and plans for excavation, bedding, backfill and groundwater drainage.
Learn moreLiner pools
Level walls and floors, correct profiles and penetrations, and a clean prepared base are essential for a neat, durable liner installation.
Learn moreRelated topics
Confirm the pool, budget and equipment before hiring contractors
Choosing a pool
Reconsider pool types if site conditions, access or construction requirements make your original choice impractical.
Learn moreCosts and budget
Budget for site preparation, installations, finishes, equipment and unexpected work.
Learn morePool equipment
Choose the pump, filter and accessories to suit pipe routes, available space and required flow.
Learn morePool construction: common questions
What must be planned before excavation?
The final location, dimensions and levels, ground conditions, drainage, construction access, structure, service routes, equipment space and pool surrounds.
Why test the installation before backfilling?
An exposed pipe or joint is easier to repair. Once it is buried or enclosed, finding and fixing a problem becomes more difficult.
Who coordinates the contractors?
Agree this before work starts. One person should be responsible for coordinating the design, work sequence, inspections and document handover.
Are photos of concealed work really useful?
Yes. Photos with measurements show pipe and cable routes, help future servicing and reduce the need for exploratory digging or drilling.