You want to start building a shell pool in your garden, but you don't know where to start? Choosing your pool is not a decision to be taken lightly. Indeed, several elements must be taken into account, such as the configuration of your land or the budget you have available for the realization of your project.
Without further ado, discover in this article the essential information to remember before calling on a swimming pool manufacturer .
Polyester shell swimming pool: advantages and disadvantages
Factory-molded , the structure of a shell pool consists of a single-piece shell, either in polyester or acrylic . Once manufacturing is complete, the pool is delivered to your home in the shape you have predefined in advance with your pool builder : rectangular, round, square, oval or even in a mini pool version (10m2 pool ) ... There is one for all tastes, and for each specific terrain.
But do you know the advantages and disadvantages of a shell pool? To help you make your choice, Aboral looks back at what you need to remember before you start building your pool .
The different advantages of a shell pool
What makes shell pools so successful is, above all, their installation time . In fact, you should allow a maximum of one week before you can enjoy the joys of a pool outdoors. Due to the complexity of the work, it is essential to contact a pool professional when installing your ready-to-dive pool . In addition to installing and starting up your pool, the latter will be able to give you the best cleaning and maintenance advice, in order to keep the surface of the shell in good condition for as long as possible.
Shell pools also have the advantage of being extremely resistant. Polyester , like acrylic, are materials renowned for their robustness and their ability to last over time, without deteriorating.
The last advantage, and not the least, concerns its excellent value for money . Indeed, the budget for the purchase and installation of a shell pool is significantly lower than that of an in-ground concrete pool. As an indication, the price of a shell pool fluctuates according to several criteria such as dimensions, installation conditions, etc. Generally speaking, remember that the budget is generally between €6,000 (mini pool of 10m2 ) and €30,000 for the most luxurious shell pools .
In terms of maintenance, you will also be a winner; easier to clean than a traditional liner, the ultra-smooth surface of your shell pool will require less effort and maintenance products .
What are the disadvantages of a shell pool?
While shell pools have many advantages, they do have some disadvantages... Firstly, be aware that before choosing the size of your pool , the maximum dimensions are limited by road clearance. In other words, you will not be able to have a pool delivered to you with dimensions greater than 11 mts by 4.20 mts and 20 mts deep. Except by helicopter! But as you can imagine, the delivery rates will not be the same...
And if you still opt for an XXL pool , make sure that your pool builder has enough access to deliver the shell safely. In fact, the latter often arrives at your home thanks to a crane placed on the delivery truck. The latter must therefore have enough space to allow the professionals to place your pool at the bottom of the excavation.
Finally, the last drawback concerns the pool shapes . While there are free-form pools on the market – in addition to round, square and rectangular pools – you should know that these represent a significant investment. Finally, not all shapes are available in infinite quantities: you should ask your pool professional to find out which free-form pools are available and their prices.
Installing a shell pool
Now that you know the advantages and disadvantages of a polyester shell pool , it is time to take a closer look at its installation. Should it be installed in winter or summer? How many days of work are needed before you can swim? Your Aboral expert will try to answer these questions .
The process of installing a polyester swimming pool
As we have seen, installing a shell pool is done in record time. But what are the different stages of this installation?
Discover now the 5 main steps before being able to indulge in the joys of swimming:
Earthworks of the land
It all starts with a professional checking the nature of the ground , who can ensure that your ground is stable enough to support the installation of a shell pool . Then comes the time to determine the location of your aquatic area. In the sun or sheltered from the wind? It's up to you to choose!
Now it's time to start digging the ground : this involves digging the location that will house your shell pool, to the desired depth. To avoid any pressure from the water table that could damage the structure of your shell, we recommend installing a pressure relief well while digging your land .
The construction and delivery of your swimming pool
Once the earthworks have been completed, your pool builder will come directly to your home to deliver and install your shell pool . Carried out with great precision, pool professionals pay particular attention to ensuring that it is level, even if necessary.
The hydraulic connection
Next, it's time for the hydraulic connection! This phase consists of making the connections between the technical elements of your pool and the technical room . It is also during this step that all the parts to be sealed – such as the skimmers, the broom socket, the return jets or the bottom drain – are glued and then connected.
Filling and backfilling
Once this step is over, you can already fill your pool (or mini-pool) with water. But before you start filling your pool , Aboral recommends that you install supports across the entire width of the pool: this will prevent it from moving. Then, as your pool fills up, start backfilling the hole by adding some crushed gravel.
The concrete belt
Congratulations, you have just completed the first four steps before enjoying your pool! But before you can jump in, you now need to pour a concrete belt all around the pool. This is the first step before you can lay your coping stones and complete the exterior layout of your aquatic area. Solar shower, deckchair and even garden furniture... it's up to you to use your creativity to create the outdoor space of your dreams!
After starting up your shell pool and installing the safety systems , it's time for swimming and relaxing!
When to install your shell pool?
Unlike concrete pools, polyester shell pools can be installed by professionals all year round, except in summer! This is mainly because the shell pool benefits from a quick installation : after 4 to 8 days of work maximum, you will be able to take a dip in your pool and enjoy swimming moments with your family!
But be careful, if you want to enjoy your pool for the summer, think about doing it in advance. As soon as the fall period comes, ask yourself the questions mentioned above about the location, shape and color of your pool.
Finally, make sure you choose the right pool builder who will take care of the construction and installation of your pool . With 10 years of experience, Aboral Piscines has created a high-performance dealer network, capable of installing a pool in your garden in 4 days . But the advantages of working alongside a pool expert don't stop there. Expertise, ten-year guarantee (on the gel coat, structure and waterproofing of your pool), support... We are here to make your pool project a reality!
So, convinced? It's time to take the plunge and start building your shell pool ! If you have any questions, don't hesitate to contact us. Our team will be delighted to put their expertise at your service!
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