For Arizona homeowners, a pool is more than just a luxury. If you live in the Valley, you know how intense the desert heat can be. A pool isn’t just an escape from the heat; it’s also a place to enjoy with family and friends. Plus, it’s a great way to add value to your home. While building a pool might seem expensive and complicated, if you’re a hands-on homeowner, you might be surprised to learn that it’s both possible and more affordable than you think.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through every step of the process—from obtaining the right permits to installing the rebar that will make your pool last for years. With the right tools, quality materials, and some careful planning, you can build a pool without breaking the bank. Let’s dive in and see how you can create your own backyard oasis.
Planning and Permits
Having a solid plan for your pool is crucial before you start building. Arizona has strict rules for pool construction, and you’ll need to make sure you follow them to keep your pool safe and legal. This step is very important, so take the time to get it right.
Understanding Arizona Pool Regulations
Arizona pools are required to have certain safety features. In some counties, alarms and fences are mandatory, so be sure to check what’s required in your area. You’ll also need to follow specific rules about where you can place the pool in your yard. These safety measures are designed to protect kids, pets, and visitors.
Pro Tip: Many homeowners don’t realize how much local pool safety laws can affect their project. Take the time to understand the rules before you begin to avoid delays.
Getting the Necessary Permits
After you familiarize yourself with local regulations, you’ll need to apply for permits. While this step can feel like a hassle, it’s necessary. Your local government will need to see a plan for your pool that includes details like the size and distance from your house.
Having a detailed sketch of your backyard layout before applying for permits can help speed up the approval process.
Taking care of permits and planning now will save you time and money later. While this part of pool building might not be exciting, it’s one of the most important.
Designing Your Pool
Now it’s time to design your pool, which is the fun part. You get to decide how big you want your pool to be, along with any features you want to include. Keeping your design simple can make pool construction easier. Arizona’s hot climate can make pool maintenance challenging, and larger or more complicated designs are harder to build and maintain.
Choosing the Right Pool Shape and Size
Rectangular and oval pools are great choices for DIY pool projects. They’re easier to measure, dig, and reinforce with rebar. Custom-shaped pools might look more exciting, but they can be difficult to construct and add extra work.
When deciding on the size of your pool, remember that larger pools require more water and maintenance. Make sure to balance your dream pool design with what’s practical for your backyard and budget.
Pro Tip: Want to make your pool unique without adding too much complexity? Consider adding features like a water fountain, a deck, or landscaping around the pool.
Choosing the Right Materials
In Arizona, concrete is the ideal material for in-ground pools. It’s strong and can stand up to the intense heat. While fiberglass and vinyl may be easier to install, they don’t last as long in extreme conditions. For a concrete pool, rebar is essential. The added strength that rebar provides keeps the pool from cracking under pressure.
At Scholz Rebar, we know that high-quality materials are essential. Shifting soil and heat are two of the biggest reasons concrete pools can crack, and that’s why rebar is so important to your pool’s construction.
Contact Scholz Rebar to ensure your pool is reinforced with materials designed to withstand Arizona’s extreme conditions.
Digging Your Pool
With your pool design ready, it’s time to start digging. This is where your pool starts to take shape. In Arizona, digging can be a challenge. The soil is often hard and rocky, so you’ll need the right tools to get the job done.
Marking and Measuring
Before you start digging, it’s important to mark the outline of your pool. Using stakes and string to trace the shape can be helpful. Double-check your measurements to make sure everything is correct. This can save you time and trouble later on.
If your pool design includes steps or different depths, make sure those are also clearly marked beforehand. You’ll want to dig everything accurately the first time.
Pro Tip: Use a level to make sure the base of your pool is even. An uneven base can cause problems when you start pouring concrete and installing the rebar.
Digging Tips for Arizona Soil
Arizona’s desert soil can be tough to dig. The almost cement-like top layer is difficult to break through by hand. Renting an excavator will probably be the best way to dig your pool. Keep an eye on your measurements as you dig to ensure consistent depth. Uneven depths can cause issues later when you reinforce the pool.
Pro Tip: Arizona’s soil expands and contracts with temperature changes, which can affect your pool’s structure if it’s not reinforced properly. Make sure you leave enough space for a thick layer of concrete and rebar.
Installing the Rebar
Now that the hole is dug, it’s time to install the rebar. This is one of the most important steps in building your pool. Rebar strengthens the pool and ensures it lasts for years.
Why Rebar is Important
Without rebar, your pool would be weak and prone to cracks. Arizona’s hot weather and shifting soil put a lot of stress on the pool’s structure. Rebar helps the concrete hold up under pressure and allows the pool to expand and contract with temperature changes.
Installing the Rebar Grid
Start by placing the rebar along the walls and floor of the pool. The rebar should form a grid pattern, with bars placed both vertically and horizontally. Make sure each intersection is tied securely with rebar ties.
Pro Tip: Take your time with this step. The better the rebar is installed, the stronger your pool will be. Using high-quality rebar from Scholz Rebar will ensure your pool stands the test of time.
Letting the Pool Shell Cure
After the pool shell is poured, it needs time to cure. This allows the material to harden and reach full strength. Don’t rush this step—proper curing is critical to ensuring your pool lasts for years.
Finishing Touches
With the hard work done, it’s time to add the finishing touches to make your pool look great. This includes choosing the right finish for the pool interior, building a deck, and adding landscaping around the pool.
Choosing a Pool Finish
You can choose from several types of finishes for the interior of your pool. Plaster is a popular and cost-effective option. Pebble or tile finishes are more durable, especially in Arizona’s intense sun.
Building a Deck
The area around your pool is just as important as the pool itself. Cool decking materials or natural stone are great options for Arizona, as they stay comfortable underfoot even in the heat.
Landscaping
Finally, add some landscaping to make your pool area feel like a true retreat. Choose drought-tolerant plants like cacti and succulents that thrive in Arizona’s climate.
Pool Safety and Maintenance
Before you take your first dive, make sure your pool is safe. Arizona requires all pools to have safety features like fencing or alarms. These features keep kids and pets safe, and they’re required by law.
Once your pool is complete, it’s important to keep it well-maintained. Regularly check the water balance, clean the filters, and inspect the pool’s structure. Taking care of your pool will help it last for many years.
Build with Confidence, Reinforce with Scholz Rebar
Building your own pool in Arizona is a big project, but with the right materials and careful planning, it’s doable. At Scholz Rebar, we’re here to help you succeed. Our high-quality rebar will give your pool the strength it needs to last through Arizona’s extreme conditions.
Ready to get started? Contact Scholz Rebar today for expert advice and premium materials that will help you create the perfect pool for your home.