Details on Installing Vinyl In-Ground Swimming Pools

Layout and Excavation

• An in-ground pool requires a major backyard excavation, which will disturb the grass, soil and landscaping in the area around the new pool. The heavy equipment used in this process could possibly damage your lawn, driveway and other areas. First, installers use surveying tools and equipment to lay out the pool; then they bring in backhoes and excavators to remove the dirt in the area to make room for the pool. This dirt is typically transported off-site for disposal. Finally, installers use survey tools to check elevations and grading to ensure the area is ready for the pool.

Framing and Construction

• Once excavation is complete, installers use a prefabricated frame to construct the walls of the pool. This frame typically consists of steel or polymers, but may be constructed from prefabricated concrete panels. Manufacturers make these panels in a variety of shapes and sizes to accommodate different pool designs, but special shapes and profiles can require custom panels. The panels are supported with steel braces that extend into the ground. A concrete footer runs around the entire perimeter of the pool framing to support the walls and braces, then the pipes and plumbing lines are run to connect skimmers, jets and other features. Prefabricated steps may be set in place during this stage, and the space around the pool framing is backfilled with gravel, soil or concrete.

Floor Preparation

• Once the walls are in place, the installers craft the floor of the pool. Vinyl in-ground pool floors are typically constructed using sand or vermiculite gravel, though some buyers may prefer poured concrete. The floor is crafted, leveled and smoothed in preparation for the vinyl lining installation.

Padding and Lining

• Some vinyl pool installers use foam padding to cushion the walls of the pool, while others install the lining directly over the pool framing. The lining is stretched tightly across the frame and held in place using clips and coping or trim around the perimeter of the pool. A special vacuum system removes excess air from beneath the vinyl and helps eliminate wrinkles. Then the pool is filled with water, which takes one to two days. Later, ladders, diving boards and other components can be cemented in place around the pool deck. Many homeowners also proceed with landscaping, paving or deck construction once the pool is complete.

Cost

• The cost of an inground vinyl pool varies significantly based on design and geographic region. As of 2012, "Popular Mechanics" estimated that an average vinyl in-ground pool cost around $25,000. This does not include the cost of landscaping or fencing around the pool. Vinyl pools with a steel frame tend to be the most economical, according to Poolandspa.com, followed by pools with polymer walls. Concrete wall framing represents the most expensive framing option for a vinyl pool, on average.