Our Construction Process

There is a difference in pool builders in Albuquerque and all of New Mexico. Affordability, design, function, quality, and performance. Our pools last longer, are less expensive to own and operate and are designed to meet your budget and expectations. Bluewater Pools has been building residential and commercial swimming pools in the Albuquerque area since 1984.

New Pool Construction Overview

We have the experience to design and build a quality product and the financial stability to support it for years to come. We want to thank you for your interest in Bluewater Pools. We hope that our website will give you all the information you need and help you design and build your own beautiful backyard oasis.

We have put together a general overview of the construction process to give you an idea as to what you can expect during the construction of your new pool. Of course, each project is unique and may require additional or varied steps depending on the individual specifications of your pool. We will be continually inspecting the progress of your pool throughout its construction to assure the utmost quality.

Utility Location and Layout

Before we begin excavation, a request is placed for any and all utility companies to clearly mark lines that are located on your property. The pool will also be marked with paint and wood stakes in accordance with the plan of your custom design. If you approve of the marked layout of your pool we are ready for excavation.

Excavation

Excavation is the true start of the heavy construction that will be happening. The excavation crew will remove the dirt in the pool area, in most cases using loader equipment – such as a Bobcat. The dirt is shuttled by the loader to a waiting dump truck. When the truck is full, it is emptied and comes back for more. At the same time, the excavation is taking place, crew members are installing form boards that mimic the approved layout, and the interior of your pool is hand shaped and contoured. The excavation generally takes 1 day.

Plumbing and Steel Reinforcement

The plumbing and steel crews are next. The pool equipment will be set and plumbing installed in your pool. Prior to completing their task, the plumber will place all plumbing under pressure to assure the integrity of the lines. Throughout the construction process, the pressure on these plumbing lines will be carefully monitored. The steel crew will be installing the reinforcing steel rods. You will see what appears to be a steel cage that is created for the specific contour of your pool. The steel is securely wired together and is placed in intervals that will provide strength within the structure of your pool.

Shotcrete

Shotcrete is a specialty concrete product that is pneumatically installed. The Shotcrete is actually applied or “shot” at a minimum compressive strength of 3500 psi at 28 days. The crew, prior to shooting the Shotcrete, will take measures to protect your home and surrounding areas from any airborne debris. 24 hours after the Shotcrete has been installed, we will ask you to assist in the curing process by applying water to your structure 2 to 3 times daily for the next 10 days. This allows the outer surface areas of the Shotcrete to cure at a rate more consistent with the inner part or center.

We use and recommend Shotcrete rather than Gunite. Click here to find out why.

Electrical

It is now time for the Electrician to provide the needed connections for the lighting and pool equipment to your electrical service. All electrical work is provided by a Master Electrician, following not only manufactures guidelines, but City, State, and National Electrical Code requirements.

Tile/Coping

Prior to this step, we will request you select the tile you would like to have. This tile is placed in the interior of your pool at the waterline. We will also need you to choose the type of material and color of coping for your pool. The coping is installed on the top or “beam” of your structure. We have wide variety of tiles and coping options for you to choose from that will grace your pool with your own unique style. Your selections will be installed at this time of the construction process. If you have a natural rock waterfall or decorative water feature, they will be created during this phase as well.

Decking

You have many options available to you on what you want to do with the area directly surrounding your new pool. Basic brushed concrete to decorative stamped concrete, creative design in brick paving to lush tropical landscape creation. Whether you select one option or decide on a combination, this will be the point in construction that the area outside your pool structure should be created.

Interior Finish

The application of the interior finish of your pool is the final step of construction. During this process, the crew will apply the type of interior finish that you chose earlier at the design or selection stage. When the crew has completed this application, immediately after exiting your pool, using your garden hose they will start the pool filling with water. The interior finish cures underwater so to avoid unwanted imprints or possible damage to the finish, it is very important to allow the pool to fill completely (to the middle of the tile) before entering the pool. Once your pool has filled, we will start up the circulation equipment, and provide in-person instruction on the operation of your new pool and pool equipment.

Contact Us Today to get started on your pool or CALL US AT 505-344-3502!

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Pool Startup and Pool School

After the pool is full of water, one of our technicians will put chemicals in the water to help achieve the best possible finish for your pool. We will install any special features such as spray heads, fountains, or computer controls at this time.

  • On your pool deck, you will find all your pool accessories, including a brush and pole. Please use the brush and pole to brush down the entire pool, steps, and benches twice a day. This procedure is vital to ensure that the finish cures properly. The more often you brush your pool, the better your finish will look in the long run. The Pebble Tec aggregate finish will need brushing for at least ten days, and Standard Quartz for close to thirty days.
  • Within a few days of the initial start-up, one of our technicians will return to neutralize the acid, continue the start-up, and clean the pool and filter. Before you can legally use your pool, we must schedule the final inspection. An inspector from your municipality will ensure that the pool is operating properly and safe for use. This inspection will include barrier protection, so you must be at home to allow the inspection of alarms on doors and windows. It is not legal for you to use your pool before it passes its final inspection.
  • One of our technicians will show you how to use the features of your pool and equipment, and how to care for and maintain your pool. They will also make sure any unfinished or incorrect items are entered into our database and scheduled for correction. Please contact our Service department as soon as the start-up process starts to set up an appointment for your personalized Pool School.
  • Do not delay your pool school for any reason, as you can cause serious damage to the finish and/or equipment. If you delay your pool school, responsibility for damage will be yours.

Swimming

You can swim and enjoy your new swimming pool!

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