A pool is a comfort feature that adds a certain prestige to your home. With this relaxation space, you can enjoy summer more pleasantly, basking in the sun or taking a dip when needed. There are many pool models, each with specific characteristics.
Among this wide variety, wooden pools have gained popularity in recent years. They can be above-ground, in-ground, or semi inground pool. If you're intrigued by the idea, discover here everything you need to know about building a wooden pool.
Administrative Procedures and Rules for Installing a Wooden Pool
Installing a wooden pool in the U.S. requires adhering to specific rules and regulations. Whether you choose an in-ground, semi-in-ground, or above-ground wooden pool, understanding local requirements is essential.
For above-ground wooden pools, permits are typically not required, as they are often considered temporary structures. However, it’s crucial to verify with your local building department or HOA, as regulations can vary. Always check if your property is subject to zoning restrictions or a neighborhood association's rules, as these can dictate where and how you can install your pool.
If your wooden pool has a surface area larger than 200 square feet (approximately 20 m²) or exceeds specific height limits (usually 48 inches or more), you may need to modify the installation. In such cases, burying the pool partially or fully may help meet the height and appearance standards outlined by local codes.
When installing a pool on protected or classified land, you’ll generally still be able to install an above-ground wooden pool, provided it remains uncovered, removable, and not permanently installed. It’s also essential that the total area does not exceed 200 square feet (20 m²), and the pool should typically be removed during the off-season.
If you have neighbors, ensure the pool is installed a minimum distance—commonly 3 feet (about 1 meter)—from property boundaries to avoid disputes and comply with setback regulations. Additionally, the pool wall height should stay under local limits, often around 48 inches (1 meter) or less.
For larger pools exceeding 1,000 square feet (100 m²) or those with structures like shelters over 6 feet (1.8 meters) in height, a building permit will likely be required. Pools located indoors that don’t alter the building’s appearance may not need a permit, but this varies by jurisdiction.
Always consult your local building authority to ensure compliance with regulations and avoid issues down the line. With proper planning, you can enjoy your wooden pool with peace of mind.
Similar to obtaining a building permit, filing a work declaration may be required when installing a wooden pool—whether it’s in-ground, semi-in-ground, or above-ground. The need for this declaration typically depends on the pool's surface area.
For in-ground or semi-in-ground pools, a work declaration is required if the surface area is between 100 and 1,000 square feet (approximately 10–100 m²). For above-ground wooden pools, a declaration is necessary if the surface area exceeds 100 square feet (10 m²).
However, you generally won’t need to file a work declaration for an above-ground wooden pool that is:
- Between 100 and 1,000 square feet (10–100 m²) in surface area, and
- Installed on your property for no more than three months out of the year.
These regulations may vary by location, so it’s crucial to check with your local building authority or zoning office to confirm the requirements for your specific installation.
Building an Above-Ground Wooden Pool Kit
There are a variety of wooden pool kits available in different sizes. Generally, these are models delivered with all possible and necessary accessories for installation. Since your wooden pool will neither be in-ground nor semi-in-ground, you won't need excavation or grading work. You will just need to prepare the ground so that the surface is flat and horizontal.
Consider installing a geotextile protection, such as a bed of gravel or leveled sand, to support the pool. Depending on the intended size of the pool, you may need to pour a slab equipped with metal reinforcements. It's also possible, depending on the desired shape, to support the pool with pillars or metal brackets. These should be fixed to the slab. But generally, manufacturers provide various instructions and recommendations on a notice accompanying the kit.
Building a Custom Above-Ground Wooden Pool
The custom above-ground wooden pool can be in-ground, above-ground, or semi-in-ground, with various shapes, dimensions, and colors. Furthermore, installing this type of wooden pool is quite simple because it comes in a kit. You just need to set up the different elements on the ground, considering the installation rules indicated by the manufacturer. These are usually included in a manual integrated into the packaging. You can also follow tutorials for a better chance of successfully building your custom relaxation area.
Assembly Steps for Your Above-Ground Wooden Pool
Assembling an above-ground wooden pool in your garden is a relatively simple task if you follow the assembly steps.
Receiving and Storing Equipment
The wooden pool can be delivered as a kit or custom model. In either case, you will find inside the box the various elements likely to form the structure. There are also filtration accessories and other optional items that can vary depending on the model.
Be sure to check the kits' contents upon delivery to ensure their quality, and also their compliance with your needs. Don't forget the presence of all the necessary parts for installation. Once the inspection is done, you should store the components in order of priority in spaces offering all the storage conditions.
Finding the Right Location
Choosing the location for your pool is a crucial step that requires a lot of attention. You need to select an area considering comfort, and practicality. First, your pool should be installed on a flat surface that does not pose risks of subsidence. Preferably choose a sunny spot, sheltered from the wind, away from trees and outside views. This place should ensure a certain privacy. Also, choose an area not far from a water supply and an electricity source.
Preparing the Site
Once the location is found, you must now prepare it properly. This is an essential step in the success of your project. It will determine the lifespan of your installation. You must start by marking the site on the ground, accounting for up to 50 cm more.
Ensure that the ground is flat and stable by removing all polluting elements like stones and roots. Consider reinforcing the ground by installing a geotextile protection. You may also opt for a concrete slab to prevent moisture from infiltrating and plants from regrowing.
The Assembly
Generally, the assembly plans accompany the wooden pool kit. Just set up the pool walls, starting with the one intended to hold the skimmer. Consider the wind direction, then set the margelles supports. These are often presented as triangle-shaped or square wood pieces. Additionally, maintain the spacing, ensuring not to break the margelles, which are quite fragile pieces.
Install the liner tracks either before or after applying the wall padding, ensuring a spacing of about 10 inches between screws. Next, attach the return fitting and the skimmer, and secure the supports or braces to reinforce the pool's structure. Once that's done, lay the bottom and wall padding, carefully trimming any excess with a utility knife. Now, it's time to install the liner, which is crucial for ensuring the pool's water-tightness. Finally, attach the coping pieces, allowing them to extend approximately 0.8 inches (2 cm) into the pool for a clean finish.
After these crucial steps, fill the pool up to before the first piece to be sealed. You'll reinstall the outlet nozzle and skimmer and install the ladder. Now is the time to set up the filtration system, fill the basin, and enjoy your wooden pool.
In conclusion, a pool adds to your home in terms of comfort and elegance. It offers the advantage of practicality, aesthetics , and ease and speed of installation.
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