Are you thinking about installing an inground pool but aren’t sure you’re ready to deal with a large construction project on your property? As Shelby County’s leading excavation company, we can tell you that a swimming pool excavation can be a lot less hassle — and less expensive — than most people realize. Work with an experienced company that follows these best practices and look forward to a fast, efficient, and cost-effective project.

Check the project site thoroughly

Before the contractor drives an excavator onto your property, a few things need to happen. The company you work with will do the following:

• Check for underground utilities to ensure no one hits anything while digging.
• Notify facility operators to let them know the date for the dig.
• Have professional locators mark the property to indicate where existing utility lines are.
• Measure the slope and dimensions to verify the pool can be safely built.

Today, homeowners have almost endless options when it comes to pool design. Whether you want a concrete, fiberglass, or vinyl-lined pool, how big you want it to be, the shape, depth, and additional features are largely up to personal preference. Before signing off on the design, look at a visual depiction of the pool, either through 3D design software or by plotting the pool out on your property with wooden stakes. This will help you envision how the pool will look once it’s installed.

For an outcome you’re happy with, it’s also important to ensure the plans for your pool offer the structural integrity, performance, and aesthetic you’re hoping for. Have your plans been checked by any of the following experts?

• A structural engineer who can verify the durability and strength of the project
• A landscape designer to ensure the designs are well-suited to the surrounding area
• An architect or professional pool designer who can work with you to make sure the pool looks and functions exactly the way you want it to within your existing space

You may not need all of these professionals to be a part of your project, especially if your pool design is relatively simple. For a pool with extra features or a custom design, consider talking with a team of experts before your excavation begins.

Prepare the site

Now that you know the land is ready to be excavated and you’re completely confident in the designs, you’re well on your way to a successful swimming pool excavation and installation. To facilitate a fast, efficient process, the excavation company will clear your space before digging. This means all outdoor furniture, landscaping, and play equipment has to go.

The excavator will want to start on a day with fair weather to avoid a wet, slippery work area. Rainy weather can make excavating more dangerous, and it can also make it harder to complete the dig quickly because of the possibility of soil instability. Talk with your excavation company about finding a day that works for you, and that has the right conditions. They should be able to complete the project within one day, although it can take two days or more for a large pool. Once complete, they’ll clear away any excess dirt and materials. If you are fond of gardening, don’t forget to ask for some of the excess soil to use in gardening projects!

Once the dig is complete, your pool installation company can move on with the next steps. You’ll soon be enjoying the pool of your dreams.

R Best Excavation Services LLC specializes in excavation services as well as land clearing and drainage solutions. We’ve completed dozens of pool excavations for homeowners in Shelby County, KY, and would love to discuss your plans with you. With our industry-leading machinery and a skilled team, we can complete any size excavation quickly. Contact us today for a quote.