Finishing a swimming pool is the final, yet crucial phase in bringing your backyard oasis to life. Whether you’re building a new pool or renovating an existing one, the finishing process involves more than just pouring water into the structure. It encompasses aesthetic touches, mechanical installations, safety considerations, and final inspections—all to ensure that your pool is safe, functional, and visually appealing.
This guide walks you through each step required to complete your pool project with efficiency and professionalism. From selecting the right materials and finishes to balancing the water chemistry, we’ll cover every aspect you need to know before opening the gates to your private aquatic retreat.
Step 1: Choose the Right Pool Finishes
Before diving into construction’s final phase, choosing the right finish is critical. The type of finish impacts the pool’s durability, comfort, maintenance, and aesthetics.
Popular Pool Finishes
- Plaster: Offers a smooth, classic look and comes in a variety of colors. It’s cost-effective but requires more maintenance as it tends to lose color over time.
- Exposed Aggregate: Features a textured surface with pebbles or stones embedded into it. This finish is durable and slip-resistant, though more expensive than plaster.
- Tile: Ceramic or glass tiles provide a luxurious, customizable finish. They are durable but can add significantly to the overall project cost.
- Vinyl Liner: Typically used in above-ground or certain in-ground pools. It’s softer underfoot but tends to tear or fade over time.
The finish you choose will affect maintenance frequency and visual appeal. Think carefully about your budget, aesthetic goals, and practicality.
Step 2: Install the Pool Equipment
With the pool shell complete, the next major step is the installation of essential equipment. This includes the filtration system, pump, heater, and chemical dispensers—each playing a critical role in keeping your water clean, safe, and comfortable.
Essential Pool Equipment Overview
| Equipment | Function | Installation Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Pump and Filter | Circulates and cleans the pool water continuously. | Choose a system matching your pool volume to ensure efficiency. |
| Heater | Maintains desired water temperature for comfort. | Consider a heat pump or gas heater depending on your climate and usage. |
| Automation System | Controls filtration, chemicals, heating, and lighting remotely. | Opt for a smart controller for energy efficiency and convenience. |
Additional Installations
Don’t forget about:
– Chemical feeders or saltwater chlorinators
– Skimmers and drains for debris removal
– Safety covers or automatic pool covers
Proper installation by a licensed pool technician ensures everything functions safely. Improper setup can lead to water imbalance issues or mechanical inefficiencies.
Step 3: Apply Tile, Coping, and Decking
Once the pool structure is complete, you enhance the edge with tiles and coping, both for beauty and safety. Surrounding the pool with proper decking adds functional space and improves the overall look of your property.
Tile and Coping Installation
- Waterline tiles protect the pool wall from waterline buildup and staining. Choose glass or ceramic tiles for a sparkly effect.
- Coping is the edging that separates the pool wall from the deck. It comes in aluminum (for vinyl pools) or natural stone (for in-ground concrete pools). It should be smooth and offer slip resistance.
Decking Options
Each material has pros and cons:
- Concrete: Durable and customizable with staining or stamping.
- Pavers: Modular and easy to repair, though higher in upfront cost.
- Wood: Natural appearance but requires sealing and high maintenance.
- Stone (Travertine, Limestone): Elegant, naturally cool underfoot, but very dense underfoot and can be pricey.
Ensure your decking has non-slip texture and provides at least 3–4 feet of space around the pool for safety and lounging.
Step 4: Add Pool Lighting and Features
A well-lit pool enhances both beauty and safety. Additionally, water features such as waterfalls, jets, or beach entries can transform your pool into a backyard highlight.
Types of Pool Lighting
- LED Lights: Energy-efficient and customizable with programmable colors.
- Fiber Optics: Safe and maintenance-free, though more expensive.
- Standard Bulbs: Affordable but lack versatility and have a shorter lifespan.
Install 1–2 lights per 15 feet of pool length and ensure they are wired to a GFCI-protected circuit for safety.
Popular Water Features
- Spillways and bubblers
- Swim jets for lap swimming
- Vanishing edges
- Waterfalls and deck jets
These add style and can create a resort-style atmosphere. However, they can also increase the complexity of your pool system, so it’s important to integrate them during the planning and construction stage rather than as afterthoughts.
Step 5: Final Grade and Landscaping
The surrounding area must be graded to direct water away from the pool and its equipment. Poor grading can cause flooding around equipment or water seepage near the structure, potentially leading to erosion or cracks.
Landscaping Tips Around the Pool
- Use low-allergen, non-toxic, and low-maintenance plants.
- Keep shrubs or trees at a safe distance to avoid root damage to the pool or deck structure.
- Pavers and gravel work well as ground coverings, minimizing leaf and pollen debris.
A professional landscaper can help you avoid the most common mistakes—overgrowth blocking access around the pool, or plants dropping fruit or needles into the water.
Step 6: Final Inspection and Certification
Before filling your pool with water, a final inspection must be completed. Most jurisdictions require a building inspector to certified the work meets local codes for safety and construction quality.
What Inspectors Check
- Pool barrier compliance (fences, gates, self-closing mechanisms)
- Electrical wiring and accessibility of power sources
- Plumbing safety, especially suction outlet fittings
- Bonding requirements for conductive materials
Failure to receive final approval can result in delays in usage and potential fines, so this inspection is not one to skip.
Additionally, many insurance providers require certification before they will cover an in-ground pool, especially with respect to safety barriers and accessibility for emergency personnel.
Step 7: Fill the Pool with Water
Once the pool is inspected and approved, it’s time to fill it. Depending on the water source and local regulations, this can take anywhere from 8 to 24 hours.
Tips for Filling the Pool
- Flood the deep end first to prevent hydrostatic pressure from lifting the shell.
- Monitor pH, hardness, and chlorine levels daily once the pool is filled.
- Evaluate for leaks during and after filling, by marking levels in the skimmer and visually checking.
Protecting the Interior Surface
If you installed a plaster or exposed aggregate finish, avoid using pool cleaners for the first few weeks. This period allows the surface to cure fully and prevents damage from abrasive brushes.
Step 8: Balance the Water Chemistry
Proper water chemistry is vital—not just for cleanliness but also for protecting equipment, maintaining comfort, and preserving your pool’s appearance.
Key Chemicals Involved
| Chemical | Desired Level | Role |
|---|---|---|
| Chlorine | 1–3 ppm | Kills bacteria and pathogens |
| pH Level | 7.2–7.8 | Maintains comfort and clarifies chlorine efficacy |
| Alkalinity | 80–120 ppm | Stabilizes pH fluctuations |
| Calcium Hardness | 200–400 ppm | Prevents scaling or corrosion of surfaces and pipes |
Depending on your local water chemistry, you may need several days or weeks to fully balance all levels, and then you can consider opening the pool to swimmers.
Step 9: Install and Test Safety Systems
Safety should never be an afterthought. Depending on your region and pool design, there are specific safety systems you must install after completing the pool.
Common Safety Systems
- Automatic covers prevent unauthorized access, especially from children or pets.
- Alarms can be installed on the pool surface, doors, or gate mechanisms.
- Childproof fences with self-closing, self-latching gates are often legally required.
Regular Equipment Testing
- Test vacuum release systems.
- Ensure pool cleaning equipment cords are up to code and grounded.
- All lighting should be routinely checked for GFCI compliance.
A licensed pool safety specialist or inspector can walk you through the specific requirements your area mandates—and help you install the most advanced and effective options.
Step 10: Maintenance Preparation and Handover
Once everything is installed, tested, filled, balanced, and certified, the pool is essentially ready—provided you’re ready to care for it. Part of finishing a pool is establishing a maintenance routine and being familiar with basic upkeep tools and systems.
Maintenance Checklist
- Check equipment operation daily
- Skim debris and brush walls weekly
- Backwash the filter monthly
- Test chemical levels 2–3 times a week
- Drain and clean the skimmer basket regularly
Provide all technical documentation and maintenance manuals to the pool owner. Some homeowners prefer hiring a professional service, while others take on most tasks themselves using a digital app or reminder system.
Conclusion: Enjoy Your Completed Pool
After you’ve completed each of these steps with strategic planning and attention to detail, the result is a beautiful and safe backyard pool that you can use for years to come. The finishing process involves much more than aesthetic upgrades—it encompasses mechanical precision, legal compliance, and personal preparedness.
Whether you’re a DIY adventurer or working closely with professionals, following this structured approach will ensure your pool is not only completed but completed right. Now, all that’s left is to gather your friends, fill the cooler, and enjoy the culmination of your investment and effort.
Pool ownership can be a labor of love—but when everything is perfectly finished, you’ll know it was all worth it.
What materials are best for finishing a pool surface?
When finishing a pool surface, the choice of materials depends on your budget, aesthetic preferences, and maintenance expectations. Common options include plaster, epoxy paint, fiberglass, and natural stone finishes like quartz or pebble. Plaster is widely used due to its affordability and smooth texture, but it may require more frequent resurfacing. Epoxy paint is less expensive and provides a smooth, durable finish but may be prone to chipping over time.
Fiberglass offers a seamless, durable surface that resists algae growth and staining, though it can be more expensive. Natural stone finishes like quartz or pebble are increasingly popular for their durability and luxurious appearance. They also offer a non-abrasive texture that’s comfortable for swimmers. Each material has its pros and cons, so it’s important to research and consider factors like climate, usage, and maintenance when deciding on the best finish for your pool.
How do I ensure proper water balance after finishing my pool?
Maintaining proper water balance is crucial after finishing your pool to preserve the surface and ensure swimmer comfort. Start by testing the water for pH, alkalinity, calcium hardness, and chlorine levels. The ideal pH range is between 7.4 and 7.6, while total alkalinity should be maintained between 80 and 120 parts per million (ppm). Calcium hardness should stay within 200 to 400 ppm to prevent corrosion or scaling issues.
After filling the pool, wait at least a week before making major chemical adjustments, especially for calcium hardness and pH, since new plaster surfaces can leach lime into the water. Use test kits or strips to monitor water chemistry regularly, and make gradual adjustments as needed. Consult with a pool professional if the water balance remains unstable, as imbalances can harm both the pool finish and equipment. Consistent maintenance ensures long-term durability and a safe environment for swimming.
What steps should I take to seal the edges and coping around the pool?
Sealing the edges and coping of a pool is essential for both safety and durability. Once the coping stones are properly installed, apply a high-quality masonry sealer to protect them from water penetration and staining. Make sure the surfaces are clean and dry before application, and apply the sealer in thin, even coats using a brush or roller, ensuring all joints and edges are covered.
Additionally, use a flexible, waterproof caulk along the joint between the pool shell and the coping to prevent water from seeping behind the coping stones, which could cause shifting or damage. Make sure the caulk is compatible with both your pool surface and the coping material (concrete, stone, wood, etc.). Allow it to cure for the time recommended by the manufacturer before exposing it to pool water or heavy use. Proper edge sealing enhances the visual appeal and extends the longevity of your pool structure.
How important is curing time when finishing a plaster surface?
Curing time is critical when finishing a plaster pool surface, as it directly affects the durability and longevity of the surface. Plaster needs time to fully hydrate and harden after application, a process that can take up to 28 days in full. During this period, the chemical hardening process, known as hydration, ensures the plaster achieves its maximum strength and resistance to staining and erosion.
If the plaster dries too quickly or is exposed to water before it’s ready, it may develop cracks or become soft and porous. That’s why it’s essential to keep the surface damp and gradually fill the pool according to the manufacturer’s and contractor’s recommendations. Following proper curing practices not only enhances the structural integrity of the pool but also minimizes the need for early repairs or resurfacing, saving time and money in the long run.
What should I consider when installing the final pool lighting and jets?
When installing the final pool lighting and jets, it’s important to prioritize safety and functionality. Make sure all electrical components meet local building codes and are installed by a licensed professional, especially for underwater lighting systems. Ensure that all fixtures are properly grounded and water-tight to prevent electric hazards. Placement of lights should enhance visibility and aesthetics, typically installed around the mid-depth section of the pool.
Jets, often used in spas or swim spas, should be aligned for proper water circulation and hydrotherapy effect. Before sealing the final walls or surfaces, double-check that all plumbing lines are pressure tested for leaks and that the connections are watertight. It’s also a good time to integrate smart controls or automation systems if desired. Proper installation not only adds comfort and ambiance but also contributes to the overall efficiency and safety of your swimming pool environment.
How do I maintain the cleanliness of the pool during the finishing process?
Keeping the pool clean during the finishing process is essential to protect the new surface and reduce future maintenance. Cover the pool when not in use to prevent debris, dust, and contaminants from entering the water. If the pool is already filled, use a pool skimmer and vacuum regularly to keep the water free of dirt and particles that could scratch or stain the surface.
Also, avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaning tools that may damage the newly finished surface. Stick to mild, pool-safe cleaners and soft brushes when cleaning the walls and floor. Monitor water chemistry closely, especially if the pool has a new plaster finish that may be prone to staining and etching in the early stages. A clean pool during and after finishing ensures a more beautiful, long-lasting result and a smoother transition into regular use.
When should I start the final startup procedure for the pool?
The final startup procedure should begin immediately after the pool is filled with water and all finishes have had sufficient curing time. For plaster finishes, it’s recommended to start the startup within 24 to 48 hours after filling to begin the critical process of balancing water chemistry and removing plaster dust. Delaying this process may allow the plaster to be exposed to unbalanced water for too long, increasing the risk of surface damage.
In the startup phase, test and adjust chemical levels, including pH, alkalinity, calcium hardness, and chlorine. Add stain preventatives and algaecides to protect the new surface. Brush the pool surface daily during the first week and perform a thorough cleaning cycle using a pool vacuum. Follow the recommendations provided by your pool contractor to ensure the startup process is completed correctly, as this sets the foundation for ongoing pool maintenance and longevity.