New Pool Construction Process, New Orleans, Uptown, Metairie, Lakeview, LA

Building a custom swimming pool is a multi-phase construction project that requires careful planning, engineering, coordination, and execution from the first design meeting through final startup. At NOLASCAPES Pool & Outdoors, every new pool project is managed through a structured construction process designed to create long-term durability, reliable performance, efficient hydraulics, and a finished outdoor space that fits the way the property will actually be used. Rather than treating pool construction as a simple installation, the company approaches each project as a fully coordinated outdoor construction process that involves site preparation, structural engineering, drainage management, utility coordination, finish selections, equipment integration, and ongoing communication throughout the build.

Planning, Design & Permit Coordination

Every new pool project begins with detailed planning and layout development. During the design phase, the team works directly with homeowners to determine how the pool will function within the overall backyard layout, how traffic will move through the space, and how surrounding features such as patios, spas, outdoor kitchens, seating areas, drainage systems, and landscaping will connect together.

The planning stage also includes evaluating property elevation, drainage flow, utility access, soil conditions, and construction access points. These early decisions are critical because they directly affect long-term structural stability, water management, and overall usability of the finished outdoor environment. Proper planning helps prevent future drainage issues, standing water problems, uneven deck movement, and construction conflicts during later phases of the project.

Before excavation begins, NOLASCAPES coordinates permitting requirements with the local city or parish, handles utility notifications, and schedules pre-construction meetings to confirm layout positioning, elevations, and site logistics. Temporary construction fencing and safety measures are also installed to help protect the property and maintain jobsite safety throughout construction.

Excavation & Site Preparation

Excavation is one of the most important structural phases of the entire project. Once the pool layout is finalized and approved, the excavation team carefully prepares the site and begins shaping the pool according to the engineered design specifications.

During this phase, construction supervisors monitor pool elevations closely to ensure proper water flow, deck integration, and drainage performance around the finished structure. Elevation control is especially important in South Louisiana properties where heavy rainfall, soil movement, and poor drainage conditions can create long-term structural problems if the site is not prepared correctly from the beginning.

The excavation process also involves hand-trimming the pool interior to achieve accurate dimensions, smooth transitions, and proper depth throughout the structure. The company works carefully to minimize unnecessary damage to surrounding landscaping and existing property features whenever possible while maintaining safe construction access for crews and equipment.

By managing excavation carefully from the start, the project moves into the structural phase with a properly prepared foundation that supports long-term pool performance and structural integrity.

Structural Construction & Reinforcement

After excavation is complete, the structural framework of the pool is installed using reinforced steel and gunite construction methods designed for strength, rigidity, and durability.

Steel reinforcement is carefully placed throughout the pool walls, floors, bond beams, and structural transition areas to help support the shell and reduce the risk of structural movement or cracking over time. Every section of reinforcement is tied and positioned according to engineering standards and construction specifications to create a stable structural framework before gunite application begins.

Once the steel framework is completed, gunite is pneumatically applied to form the structural shell of the swimming pool. Proper gunite application is critical because it determines the overall strength, density, and longevity of the finished structure. NOLASCAPES uses experienced crews to shape, trim, and finish the shell carefully to maintain structural consistency throughout the pool.

The structural phase also includes ongoing inspections, supervisor oversight, and quality control checks before the project progresses into plumbing, electrical, and finish work. This stage lays the foundation for the entire pool system and directly affects the long-term durability of the investment.

Plumbing, Hydraulic Systems & Electrical Installation

A swimming pool's long-term efficiency depends heavily on the quality of its plumbing and electrical systems. During this stage, the company installs the hydraulic infrastructure that controls circulation, filtration, water features, cleaning systems, spas, and overall pool performance.

Rigid schedule 40 PVC plumbing is installed throughout the hydraulic system, with pipe sizing calculated to support proper flow rates and efficient circulation. Correct hydraulic design helps improve water clarity, energy efficiency, filtration performance, and equipment longevity while reducing unnecessary strain on pumps and system components.

Safety also plays a major role during this phase. Suction lines, drains, returns, and circulation systems are installed according to current safety standards and code requirements, including APSP guidelines and federal VGB compliance requirements. Pressure testing is performed before completion to verify system integrity and identify any issues before the pool progresses into finish work.

Electrical systems are installed by licensed electricians following NEC guidelines and local code requirements. Lighting, automation systems, pumps, heaters, and control systems are integrated carefully to support safe operation, convenience, and long-term reliability. Homeowners also have the option to include automated wireless controls that simplify pool and spa operation through centralized system management.

Decking, Coping & Finish Selections

Once the structural and mechanical systems are completed, the project moves into the finishing phase where the surrounding outdoor environment begins to take shape.

Decking installation includes careful grading, reinforcement, expansion joint planning, and concrete preparation to help prevent shifting or uneven movement over time. The company offers a wide range of decking and coping materials that allow homeowners to match the pool design with the architectural style of the property and the intended use of the outdoor space.

Coping, tile, and finish materials are selected not only for appearance but also for durability, slip resistance, heat performance, and long-term maintenance considerations. Waterline tile, stone coping, decorative concrete, pavers, travertine, and specialty finishes are all integrated as part of a cohesive outdoor design rather than treated as isolated features.

This stage also focuses heavily on transitions between the pool, decking, patios, landscaping, and entertainment spaces to create a finished layout that feels connected, functional, and visually balanced.

Equipment Installation & System Integration

Pool equipment installation is handled with a focus on long-term performance, energy efficiency, and serviceability. Pumps, filters, heaters, cleaners, valves, automation systems, and spa equipment are installed and configured to support efficient operation and reliable water circulation.

NOLASCAPES helps homeowners select equipment systems that fit the size, usage demands, and features of the pool while prioritizing durability and operational efficiency. Proper equipment sizing is essential because oversized or undersized systems can negatively affect circulation, filtration performance, and long-term maintenance requirements.

Automation systems, lighting controls, heating systems, and spa components are also integrated during this phase to create a complete operating system before startup begins.

Final Startup, Testing & Homeowner Orientation

Before the pool is turned over to the homeowner, the project enters the final startup and testing phase. Water chemistry is tested and balanced carefully to ensure proper startup conditions for the plaster and finish materials. Equipment systems are calibrated, circulation is verified, and the pool is cleaned and fine-tuned for operation.

The final phase also includes walkthroughs with the homeowner to explain equipment operation, maintenance expectations, automation controls, cleaning systems, and ongoing care recommendations. Follow-up evaluations help ensure the system continues operating correctly after the pool has been placed into regular use.

Throughout every phase of construction, NOLASCAPES Pool & Outdoors focuses on communication, scheduling coordination, code-compliant construction, structural quality, and long-term performance. The result is a custom pool project built not only for visual impact, but for reliable everyday use, efficient operation, and lasting value for the property. Contact us today on 504-330-8479 or via our online form.