Pool Construction in Memphis, TN
Pool construction is a construction project — which means it demands the same discipline, coordination, and quality control as any major structure. A pool built carelessly will leak, crack, or fail within a few years. A pool built right will function reliably for decades.
The Phases of Inground Pool Construction
Phase 1 — Permits & Engineering
Pool construction in Shelby County requires permits. We handle the process, including submitting engineering drawings to the relevant authority. A pool built without permits creates serious problems when you sell the property.
Phase 2 — Layout & Excavation
We mark the pool footprint precisely, then excavate. Depth and profile must match the engineering drawings exactly — variations cause structural problems. Sub-base is prepared and compacted to spec.
Phase 3 — Steel Reinforcement
A steel rebar cage installed to engineering specifications — rebar size, spacing, and coverage are specified by the engineer and must be followed. This is the skeleton of your pool.
Phase 4 — Gunite Application
Gunite applied over the steel cage by experienced nozzlemen. The application must be even and thorough — no voids, no thin spots. Shell cures for the required period before the next phase proceeds.
Phase 5 — Plumbing & Electrical
Main drain, skimmer, return lines, and water feature plumbing are installed. Electrical conduit and wiring for lights, pump, and automation is roughed in. All work performed by licensed trades.
Phase 6 — Tile & Coping
Waterline tile is set and coping — the cap around the pool perimeter — is installed. Coping must be set correctly to manage water runoff away from the pool shell and prevent damage.
Phase 7 — Decking
Pool deck is poured or installed. Deck material, color, finish, and drainage are specified in the design and must be executed properly. Poorly installed decking shifts, cracks, or holds water.
Phase 8 — Interior Finish & Startup
Interior plaster or premium finish applied by experienced plasterers. Pool is filled and initial water chemistry startup is done precisely. Startup chemistry matters — errors cause surface problems requiring expensive remediation.
Why Pool Construction Quality Varies So Much
The honest answer is that pool construction has a low barrier to entry. Anyone can form an LLC, buy some equipment, and start bidding jobs. The difference in quality between a careful, experienced contractor and a cut-rate operation is enormous — and it’s not always visible until years after the pool is built.
What to look for: How long have they been in business? Do they self-perform the critical phases or subcontract everything? Are their plumbers and electricians licensed? Will they provide references from pools built three to five years ago — not just last year?
We’ve been in this market since 2006. We’ll give you references from pools we built 10 years ago. That’s the kind of accountability that comes with doing this work right.
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