What criteria should you take into account when choosing the layout of your shell pool?

You are planning to building your polyester shell swimming pool in the coming months? Before embarking on this exciting project, it's important to know choice of location of your future pool is essential. Not only does it influence the aesthetics of your garden, but also the practicality and durability of your installation.

Exposure to the sun, the nature of the soil, the distance from your home, and even any local local regulations are all criteria to be taken into account to guarantee optimum results.

There's no such thing as a perfect location! To choose your final location, you'll certainly have to make a few concessions. But don't worry, Aboral Piscines accompanies you every step of the way with practical advice to help you make the right choice.

1. Study the nature of the soil

Why is soil type so important?

The floor is the very foundation of the pool, and its stability directly determines the pool's strength and of your pool's shell.. Flat, stable, moisture-free ground is the ideal location. However, it's rare to find a perfectly suitable site. You'll probably have to adjust the position of your pool according to the specificities and constraints of the site.

To do this, don't hesitate to call in a specialist company to carry out a soil survey. This will help you avoid unpleasant surprises that could complicate the construction of your shell pool.

What to do in the event of difficult soil?

If the ground is unstable, corrective measures should be considered. This may include the installation of a reinforced excavation base with a layer of draining gravel to prevent water infiltration.

On very wet soils, a drainage system can be installed to ensure efficient drainage of groundwater. These features guarantee a stable, durable foundation for your shell pool.

If your land is on a slopesome adjustments will have to be made. In addition to levelling the site, drainage will be required to prevent run-off. The base will need to be reinforced with special foundations, and backfilling may be required.

Finally, if your swimming pool is to be installed on a bowl-shaped groundyou have two options: level the area or raise the pool bed. In both cases, Aboral strongly recommends the installation of an effective drainage system to preserve the water's water quality and guarantee the life of the pool shell.

What to do if groundwater is present?

The presence of groundwater or a water table requires special attention.

A decompression well can be installed to balance the pressures exerted by the water on the hull. This device prevents the risk of pond heave, a common problem on wet sites. At the same time, peripheral drainage can be added to direct excess water away from the in-ground pool.

2. Choosing the right location for your pool

Visit choice of pool location is decisive in guaranteeing your comfort of use. Optimum sunshine (especially between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m.) keeps the water at a pleasant temperature and reduces heating costs. Orient your pool towards the south, while avoiding elements that could cast a shadow. Also, keep away from trees to minimize the deposit of leaves and debris in the water.

So make sure you choose a location sheltered from the wind. As well as lowering water temperature and polluting your water, it's not pleasant to finish your swim facing into the wind.

3. Comply with current regulations

Before you start building your pool, it's essential to consult the Local Urban Plan (PLU) or, failing that, the Règlement National d'Urbanisme (RNU) at your local town hall. These documents will tell you the legal rules and constraints specific to your project, in particular the distance between the pool and the house. They will also tell you the regulatory distances to be respected:

• Neighborhood: The minimum distance between your pool and your neighbor's property line generally varies between 2.5 and 5 meters, depending on the requirements of your municipality.
• Roads: A 40-metre gap must be maintained between your pond and a freeway, and 25 metres with a major traffic artery.
• Public roads: For minimum distances from public roads, please refer to article R.111-6 of the Code de l'Urbanisme.

Compliance with these regulations is essential to ensure the conformity of your project. You should be aware that a check will be carried out when your preliminary declaration of work or your application for building permit.

4. Provide technical room and connections

The equipment room is the heart of your pool's operation. It contains the pump, filter and water treatment systems. Its location must be strategic: close to the pool to limit pressure loss, but far enough away to reduce noise pollution. Make sure it's well ventilated and easy to access, to simplify maintenance.

Visit hydraulic and electrical connections also require special attention. They must be made in compliance with current standards to avoid any risk of leakage or short-circuiting. A qualified electrician can ensure that all installations comply with safety requirements.

5. Anticipate developments around the pool

The area around your pool is just as important as the pool itself. A sufficiently wide deck improves circulation and provides comfortable relaxation areas. Ideally, you should use non-slip, weather-resistant materials to ensure the safety and durability of your poolside features.

To enhance the space around the pool, you can add a pool house or suitable planting. Choose plants that are easy to maintain, and avoid those that shed a lot of leaves. 

Well thought-out landscaping will enhance the aesthetic value of your garden while improving your comfort.

6. Plan pool delivery and installation

The delivery of a shell pool requires sufficient access for trucks and lifting equipment. Make sure that obstacles such as narrow gates or trees do not block the way.

As you can see ; the installation of a polyester shell swimming pool is an important step that requires careful analysis of the terrain, rigorous planning and compliance with all relevant regulations. Would you like to find out more about the various criteria to be taken into account when installing your pool project ? Ask our team of experts for advice - they'll be happy to help you every step of the way!