Installing a semi-inground pool to create a natural backyard oasis

In the making

Although the pool was taking shape, there was still much more work to be done. Even after filling the pool using the water truck, the water level was still 0.3 m (1 ft) shy from being able to cut-out the liner for the returns and skimmer. Because the project was located outside of city limits, it was quite costly for the client to order water; therefore, they opted to run their hose to top off the pool, which meant returning the next morning to trim the liner.

This is not the typical procedure for an out of town project; however, as the electrical was not being completed until the following day, the author returned to the site to cut the liner, install the final fittings, and show the client how to operate their new pool—with the exception of the waterfall feature. As this part of the project is awaiting the completion of landscaping, it currently comprises a 38-mm (1.5-in.) pipe sticking out of the ground in the chosen location.

Aside from deck work in the form of finished concrete on the high side, and cedar deck on the low side, the client’s pool and heater are now operating, which meant Remington Home Leisure’s job was complete.

A little give-and-take

The unique challenges of this project meant the customer had to compromise on the type of pool they wanted—from an inground pool with a costly retaining wall (estimated at more than $18,000) to a semi-inground model. Once the project is completed, it will look like an inground pool, with the pool wall itself acting as the retaining wall. By saving the client the cost of installing a retaining wall it allowed them to add a deep end as well as a water feature element to the project, which still cost less than installing an inground pool.

The pool’s location relative to the client’s home is ideal; however, from an installer’s point of view, it had its disadvantages. The project nonetheless came together as planned with only a few hiccups along the way, which were primarily weather related.

Matt Remington has 17 years’ experience in the pool and hot tub industry and operates Remington Home Leisure, a family owned pool and hot tub business in Moncton, N.B. The company has a 1356-m² (14,600-sf) showroom and specializes in fibreglass inground pool, vinyl liner, on-ground, and above-ground pool installation. He can be reached via e-mail at mlrem@rogers.com.