New pool construction

When you need it

• Adding a pool to a villa or townhouse.
• Building a pool as part of a new development, tower or hotel.
• Replacing a pool so damaged that renovation makes no sense.

How a specialist does it

A typical sequence:

1. Brief and design. Size, shape, depth, finish, features, equipment location and how the pool will be used.
2. Approvals. Plans prepared and submitted to the relevant authority, and to the developer or building management where they have a say.
3. Structure. Excavation or structural works, the reinforced shell, pipework and fittings.
4. Waterproofing and finish. Membrane, then tile, mosaic, plaster or another finish.
5. Equipment. Pumps, filters, disinfection, heating or cooling, lighting and controls.
6. Safety features. Fencing, gates and depth markings as required.
7. Fill, commission and hand over, with manuals, settings and a walkthrough for the owner.

The Pool & Hot Tub Alliance publishes PHTA-5, an American National Standard for residential inground pools. PHTA says it covers new construction and remodelling, including design, equipment, operation and installation. It is a useful reference for what a well-specified residential pool includes, even where local rules govern the project.

What to ask before you hire

• Who designs the pool, and who takes responsibility for the structure?
• Who prepares and submits the drawings for approval, and to which authorities?
• Which waterproofing system, finish and equipment brands do you specify?
• How is the equipment sized for flow, turnover, filtration and disinfection?
• What fencing and safety features are included?
• What warranties do you give on structure, waterproofing, finish and equipment, and for how long?

UAE notes

In Dubai, Dubai Municipality's technical guidelines for approving swimming pool plans apply to public and private pools. Applications go through the municipality's e-service, or through the Dubai Building Permits System for areas under its authority. Required drawings include a site plan, pool details, a cross section, the pipe layout for pool and pump room, an electrical diagram, drainage including backwash disposal, the pump room layout, disinfection systems and turnover calculations.

Among the technical requirements in those guidelines: water turnover of no more than 4 hours, one water inlet for every 45 cubic metres, at least two outlet drains, two pumps for each pool, low voltage underwater lights, and light coloured, smooth pool floors. Private pools need a chlorine feeder or automatic dosing system.

Dubai Municipality's private pool safety guidelines require private pools to be enclosed. Solid walls and fences need a minimum effective height of 1.20 metres, gates must open outwards and be self-closing and self-latching, and there are limits on gaps and on climbable objects near the fence.

Other emirates have their own authorities and rules. Check with the local municipality and, in communities, with the developer or master community before the design is final.