If you’re having a swimming pool installed, there are a few things you should consider before the excavation portion begins. And, yes, you will need to excavate your yard’s ground if you want to install an in-ground pool. This is something many people don’t think about. If you’re in the process of finding a pool builder, be sure to ask them these six questions before excavation begins.
1. How Can I Prepare My Yard for Excavation?
Each pool excavation contractor will likely give you some of the same tips for preparing your yard, but they will also probably have certain preparations specific to their company. In general, you can start by removing any type of outdoor furniture, grills, potted plants, debris, or playsets that are currently in your yard. This will help to accommodate space for the hole and the excess dirt that will pile up. Don’t worry; once your pool is installed, you’ll be able to set your yard up again with all your items.
2. How Long Does the Pool Excavation Process Take?
Excavating for a pool can vary on how long it takes. Some excavation companies may only require a few hours to get the hole dug, especially if you’re installing a small hole, while others may require a few days to dig the hole. Keep in mind that other things can impact how long it will take your builders to excavate, such as the weather, your yard’s layout, and if the excavation contractors will have to dig through cement. Ask your pool excavation company specifically about your yard for a time estimate.
3. What Will Happen to My Yard During the Process?
Excavation companies all have their own way of doing things. Some may impose minimal damage to your yard, while others may not. Ask around to see what your local excavation companies will say, but in general, expect your yard to incur some damage during your swimming pool excavation, including grass being ruined.
4. How Do I Take Care of Excess Dirt?
Ask your excavation company if they will also take care of all the excess dirt from the pool excavation. If they don’t, then you’ll need to be prepared to do it yourself. On average, when excavating a swimming pool, there will be a dirt pile the size of five garden sheds. The pile may be larger or smaller depending on the size of the pool. The best way to remove this is to hire someone to haul it away.
5. Can Digging My Own Hole Save Me Money?
Most excavation companies will tell you that digging your own hole won’t save you much money in the long run. Swimming pool companies may even charge you more money for the pool installation if you do dig your own hole. It’s often much easier, faster, and more effective to have your pool excavation contractors take care of it for you.
6. What Happens if Water or Rock is Hit While Digging?
If swimming pool excavators hit water or rocks while digging your hole, you may be charged more money for their excavation service. Each company will have different practices and options when it comes to rocks and water, so be sure to ask your swimming pool excavator or builder about their policy.
These aren’t the only questions you can ask your pool building or excavation company, but they’re a great starting place to help you know what to expect, and you can never be too prepared for a swimming pool excavation. Be sure to ask different excavation service companies in your area these questions before hiring one. It will help you determine who is best for the job. At Rock On Walls & Falls, we pride ourselves on being one of the best excavation companies in the St. George area. Be sure to give us a call when you decide to hire a company for your pool’s excavation!
