5. Steel & Plumbing
Next, a steel is structure is expertly knitted throughout the entire pool structure. This web of rebar provides the structural strength that will bind all of the pool surfaces together and give the pool a backbone of support that will last for many decades. Prior to gunite, we will install the plumbing skimmers and main drains according to the plans and equipment specified in your contract. After the steel installation, an inspector will check on the steel structure and pool bonding.
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| Steel/Rebar Enforcement Process | Pre-gunite Plumbing Process |
6. Gunite
The pool is now ready for the most unique important part of the process. The concrete mix, called gunite is installed into the pool using a pressurized pump system, referred to as "shooting the gunite." This method embeds the gunite mix into the rebar framing and allows the installer to build the material up on itself to form the walls and other elements of the pool design.
After the gunite is shot, the walls are cut and smoothed with hand tools to form the final shape of the pool walls.
7. Waterproofing
After the gunite shell is placed and cured, waterproffing is applied to critical areas of the pool, spa and waterfeatures. This helps prevent degradation of the pool shell and the structural rebar as well as helping to prevent efflorescence from appearing on tile or stone work. This white mineral build up can prove to be difficult to remove once it appears. Our waterproffing techniques will ensure long life to the pools stone and tile work.
8. Tile & Coping Installation
Now it’s time to brighten up that gray shell with some color. After the gunite shell has had a chance to cure, the coping stones, flagstone or bricks are installed on the pool followed by a 6" band of waterline tile. If accent tile is a part of your pool design, it will typically be installed on the steps and benches. All of these design decisions will meet with your approval at the time of your coping and tile selection.