Our Guide to Building a Pool on a Hillside: What You Need to Know
A hillside pool can be one of the most visually stunning and appealing additions to your backyard – but it can also be a challenging and technical project to undertake. While the idea of having a relaxing swimming space overlooking a beautiful view may seem enticing, building a pool on hillside terrain presents a range of unique obstacles that must be taken into account. In this guide, we’ll take you through what you need to know to build a successful hillside pool that looks beautiful and functions well.
Site Analysis and Preparation: Before breaking ground, you need to fully understand your site and its characteristics. Hillside pools require special consideration during the planning stage. During this step, you need to determine factors such as soil stability, water runoff, and the slope of the terrain. You should also have a good idea of where all underground utilities are situated. Work with a professional engineer to ensure your site is feasible for a pool and all necessary drainage and erosion control measures are included in the pool design.
Choose the Right Design: Once the site has been analyzed and prepared, it's time to pick the right size and shape of the pool to fit the slope and shape of your property. The design of a hillside pool is critical to its overall functionality and aesthetics. The design must take into account the slope of the hillside, erosion control, and must provide adequate decking and patio areas.
Access and Safety: Hillside pools tend to be more challenging to access and use than traditional flat ground pools. It is essential to consider access options carefully, building stairs, or a ramp depending on the shape and slope of the pool deck. Safety is paramount when building a pool on a hillside. The pool fence and gates play an important role in keeping children, pets, and unwanted guests out of the pool area.
Proper Installation: Proper installation of the pool shell, rebar, steel, and concrete walls is crucial for a secure and sturdy pool. Pool installation involves excavation; installing the pool liner, its plumbing and finally filling it up. When building a hillside pool, including retaining walls and drainage features are critical to ensuring the pool remains structurally sound.
Ongoing Maintenance: Once your hillside pool is finished, ongoing maintenance will be essential to keep it in good condition for years to come. Regular cleaning, balancing of chemicals, and inspecting the infrastructure will help you avoid costly repairs and keep the pool safe and healthy for swimmers.
Building a pool on a hillside requires careful planning and consideration. It’s important to consult with professionals throughout the process to ensure that your pool is installed using best practices and is stable and safe for swimmers. Whether you choose to build a custom deck or a natural feel by incorporating the scenery, a well-designed pool built on a sloping hillside can be the perfect addition to your backyard oasis. By following the guidelines provided in this guide, you should be able to create a beautiful and functional hillside pool that you and your family will enjoy for years to come. Contact us to discuss your vision and begin the journey of building your dream home.
Can you put a pool on a hillside?
Imagine relaxing in your very own inground pool with breathtaking views of the surrounding area. Now, picture that pool sitting on a hillside, seemingly defying the laws of gravity. It may seem impossible, but in fact, it is completely doable. With techniques like grading, terracing, and retaining walls, you can transform even the steepest of hills into the perfect spot for a pool. So, if you've been dreaming of a backyard oasis, don't let a hillside stand in your way. A little creativity and planning can go a long way in creating the ultimate pool experience on your very own slice of paradise.
How much slope is OK for pool?
When it comes to designing a pool, one factor that often goes overlooked is the slope. However, it's a crucial element that can affect not only the overall look of the pool but also its safety. To ensure that the slope is safe and comfortable for swimmers, industry standards dictate that in shallow areas with depths less than 5 feet, the slope should not be steeper than 1 unit vertical in 12 units horizontal. Meanwhile, in deeper areas, the slope should not exceed 1 unit vertical in 3 units horizontal. Keep these guidelines in mind when planning your pool, and you'll have a swimming experience that's both enjoyable and safe.
What is the most expensive part of building a pool?
When it comes to building a pool, there's often one cost that is overlooked but can add up quickly – the patio. Many people don't realize that they'll need additional patio space beyond the initial border around the pool. In fact, most people opt for an extra 300-700 square feet of patio, which can come with a hefty price tag. This is because the patio requires materials like concrete or pavers, as well as additional labor for installation. So, while retaining walls are talked about frequently, it's important to consider the cost of a pool's patio as well.
Can you build an above ground pool on a slope?
If you've been dreaming of installing a swimming pool in your sloped backyard, you might be wondering if it's possible. The good news is that with an above ground pool, it absolutely is! Unlike in-ground swimming pools that require a flat, even surface, above ground pools can be customized to fit the natural slope of your backyard. In fact, building an above ground pool on a slope can actually add to the aesthetic appeal of your yard, creating a backyard oasis that blends seamlessly with the surrounding landscape. So whether you want to cool off during hot summer days, or simply lounge poolside with a good book, an above ground pool could be the perfect solution for your sloped backyard.
