Evolution Of A Custom New Pool Build

We recently completed a challenging project that involved removing an existing pool, then reconstructing into a new pool and backyard hardscape.  Everything involved in-between the lines was an arduous process due to the challenging terrain, access, requirements, and our own quest for "perfection".

Our company treats every project with as much care and preparation as if it was our own pool.  Fortunately, we've been able to work with fabulous clients who exude trust, patience, and understanding that projects can evolve by the minute.  This project included all of the above!  We're very fortunate to be able to have a client say "Yes", all the while knowing that this was going to get MESSY!

The projects involved many layers to get by in order for us to cross the finish line.  The existing pool had structural cracks caused by poor prior construction, Non-existent drainage, unfit soil, and a previous tremor/earthquake that potentially pushed the structural damage over the edge.  The only way to confidently rectify this situation would be to remove the existing pool and get our Soil & Structural Engineers involved to tell us what their recommendations were.  Sure enough, the solutions were to bring in better soil, compact to 95%, add extra steel, waterproof, and provide plenty of drainage!  Easy enough... hardly!!!!

A list of hurdles/challenges along the way...

• Multiple 3D design revisions. All of our design is in-house, and all of our designs are custom... not templated or without detail.  When we feel a change needs to be made, back to the computer we go!
• HOA.  Strict governance can alter plans.  Start times set at 8am through the HOA community.
• ​Tight access.  Removing a pool structure that sits in a narrow backyard requires wall removal, and our demo crew tip-toeing the edges.
• Rocky terrain.  Anthem is known for rocky soil, full of caliche (sedimentary, hardened rock full of mineral carbonates).  Not just from the pool dig site, but trenching lines for all plumbing, electrical, and gas.  This creates a rocky mess until we can remove the bad stuff and grade and compact.
• ​Structural & Soil Engineering.  Correct soil and structural construction may be costly, but it's the right thing to do when questions arise.  Since the existing pool structure cracked, we knew right away that proper engineering would help guide us through the process.
• Preserving Existing Trees & Plants.  Saving some of the beautiful trees and plants was important to us and the homeowner.  We're proud to have made this happen, incorporating and making use of each in our final product.

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Important detail...

• ​​Drainage!  The previous pool had less than sufficient drainage with multiple unintended elevations.  Large drainage pipes and boxes fed towards the back wall will help keep the soil compacted and away from the pool shell.
• Fireplace was hand-built, no template or kit.  The tiniest of imperfections in our construction and material give off the unique personality this project deserves.
• Custom radius pony walls, with natural stone facing to match the fireplace.  We capped it with our custom bullnose Travertine.
• Functional, dependable equipment with large hydraulic vessels!  Equipment and functionality is more important to us than design.  The pool must function!  This pool has been operational for 3 months and it remains extremely clean, clear, and beautiful.  Fortunately, we have a great relationship with Pentair Pool Products.  Not only do we prefer Pentair over other manufacturers because of their operability, we also choose Pentair because of their warranty.  If there's an issue... we fix it, no questions asked.
• Basecrete Waterproofing.  To protect our shell and raised walls, we used Basecrete to give us an added layer of protection.  Waterproofing is used on all of our pools with raised walls, negative edges, water features, return/suction lines.  
• The Oceanside Glass Tile sets the tone on the large, raised water feature wall and waterline.  We used Laticrete Pro Premium Epoxy Translucent Grout (with Glass Tile Adhesive).
• 3 Custom Cascade Water & Fire Bowls. Opal Glass Fire Rock.  Fire and Ice! Electronic ignition tied in with the Pentair IntelliCenter Wireless Automation.
• 2 Custom Cascade Spa Spill Edges.  Making sure we have enough clearance away from the raised spa wall helps keep mineral deposits from forming. 

If you're still reading, thank you!  We hope you enjoyed a small peak into what went into this proud project we completed.  You can access our photo album link her: Anthem Custom New Build. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us at 602-218-5302 (text/voice) or email [email protected].

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