Are you planning to turn that big, open space in your backyard into a dream in-ground pool for your family? If so, then it’s essential to consider factors such as long-term stability and integrity of the overall structure. The primary goal should always be to build your pool on the best, most stable ground possible.
With this in mind, pool contractors always insist on the soil testing Melbourne locals rely on to ensure safe pool construction. If you’re not sure if this is necessary for your little backyard pool, then this post is a must-read. We take a more in-depth look at how this proactive approach can lead to successful pool installation and also prevent expensive repairs down the line.
What is Pre-Construction Soil Testing?
Also commonly known as a Site Classification Report, a soil test is an essential first step in the pool building process. Not only is it the law, but this comprehensive analysis will guide architects and building engineers with informed design considerations. This, in turn, keeps project costs to a minimum and eliminates wasting time by digging in an unsuitable area.
In this process, a series of procedures are performed to analyse the soil’s properties. This includes assessing the following:
- Composition
- Moisture content
- Density
- Bearing capacity
Assessing these components helps establish the soil’s suitability for supporting a structure such as a building or swimming pool. These tests also help to identify potential issues such as high moisture content and poor loading capacity. Both of these issues could compromise overall structural stability. In some more advanced tests, you’ll also be able to get an analysis of potential contaminants that could seep through the soil and into the pool.
More Beneficial than You Realise
Adding an in-ground pool to your backyard is about considerably more than picking what appears to be the best spot, right next to your entertainment area. Opting to have your pool professionally installed will ensure that all the right procedures are followed to meet local safety standards and legal compliance. Here’s how you’ll benefit from having a professional soil test done.
1. Could be Mandatory
Having a soil test done before construction begins may not be mandatory in every Australian council. However, in areas such as Victoria, this type of test is required before you can be issued with the necessary building permits.
Local councils and engineers strongly recommend having these tests done as they assess the quality of soil suitability and foundation design. In short, these tests will help your construction design set up your pool in the best possible spot.
2. Assess Foundation Stability
Professional soil tests also assess the soil’s ability to support the overall weight of the type of pool type you have in mind. Keep in mind that the soil should also be able to withstand excavation throughout the whole project.
This type of assessment also helps the engineers and construction team determine which foundation type will be more effective. Since not all construction techniques are the same, your team will need to find the right option to prevent any potential issues, such as uneven surfaces or cracking.
3. Provides a Site Classification
Soil tests are also essential to help the engineer classify the site. This means determining which type of soil your team will be working with. Knowing whether the soil is clay, sandy, or loamy will determine construction decisions such as how much drainage is required and whether or not additional stabilisation is required.
4. Helps to Prevent Unexpected Future Problems
When your team is excavating, they may not see any signs of potential future issues. A soil test will identify key issues that may affect the structure of your pool over time. These can include the following:
- Rock formations
- Filled ground
- Unstable soils
Discovering these issues mid-ex excavation can cause delays or even inflate construction costs. Ignoring them can see you having to costly repairs to your pool early in its lifespan.
5. Enhances Long-Term Pool Performance
Water damage isn’t usually an issue that you would associate with your swimming pool. However, building your pool on an unstable foundation can result in leaks that compromise the pool’s structure, equipment, and even affect the surrounding area. Weakened foundations can cause the pool to sink in, affecting the overall performance.
Structural damage can lead to shifting or loose tiles and cracks. Damage to the pool shell is also a common problem in concrete and plaster pools and can be avoided if proper soil tests are conducted. Knowing what type of soil you’re dealing with enables the right building techniques to be used.
Final Thought
The first step in your pool construction should always be to have a professional soil test done. This comprehensive analysis will identify potential issues and may also enable the engineers and architects to make the best recommendations for the construction team to construct the safest, most durable in-ground pool to last a lifetime. You’ll also have peace of mind that your pool has met all the legal requirements!