Concrete pools provide design freedom, but they are site-built structures whose quality depends on engineering, preparation, trade coordination and water-management details.
Design for the site
Custom shape should respond to soil, slope, setbacks, drainage, access and how people will enter and leave the water.
- Coordinate structure and landscape
- Allow equipment access
- Avoid shape complexity without a purpose
Build sequence matters
Excavation, steel, plumbing, electrical bonding, shell placement, waterproofing, coping and finish must be inspected at the right stages.
- Define inspection responsibility
- Photograph concealed work
- Keep approved drawings
Finish selection
Plaster, aggregate and tile differ in appearance, texture, water sensitivity and renewal cost. Ask for installed samples and maintenance requirements.
- Consider slip resistance
- Review startup procedures
- Budget for future resurfacing
Long-term movement and water
Cracks can be cosmetic or structural. Groundwater, expansive soil and poor drainage require site-specific engineering rather than generic fixes.
- Monitor changes over time
- Control surface water
- Use qualified diagnosis before repair
Official sources and further reading
These sources provide general guidance. Local codes and product instructions may be more specific.