If you have never owned a swimming pool but are having one installed, you may hear a lot of terms that don’t make a lot of sense. That’s because pool builders speak a language all their own. Pool builders and contractors use terminology that may seem like Latin to you, but makes total sense to everyone involved in the build. That’s totally normal!

However, if you want to be more involved and better understand what’s happening in your pool build, there are 10 pool construction terms that you need to know. Take look at the terms our swimming pool builders South Florida recommend you know. 

10 Pool Construction Terms You Need to Know

Take a look at the terms that you can learn to stay up-to-date on what’s happening as your pool is installed. 

1. Beam

The beam of a swimming pool is an important part of the structure. This is part of the structure that traces the perimeter and helps identify the overall pool structure. Decorative stone or tile edges are usually installed along the beam. 

2. Coping

There is material placed on top of the beam that is called coping. The coping follows the shape of the waterline and forms an edge. Concrete decking may butt up against the coping to create a joint. The coping can be finished with travertine, flagstone, brick, or tile. 

3. Perimeter

As you might imagine, the perimeter refers to the overall shape of the pool. Imagine tracing the outline and that is your perimeter. The perimeter is important, especially in pools that are free-form shaped or have odd edges. 

4. Rebar

Rebar is a material used to improve the structural integrity of concrete, gunite, and other materials. Rebar is used to make perfect 10×10 squares, which form a cage to support the pool structure. 

5. Gunite

Speaking of gunite, this is a type of concrete that is used to form many types of pools. It is sprayed in the area and can be shaped and sculpted into a variety of different shapes. Gunite applicators must be certified if your pool is going to have a lifetime warranty.

6. Surface Area

The term surface area refers to the square footage of the area of water that will be inside the pool. If you were looking top-down at the pool, the surface area would be the footprint of the pool, or the amount of space that the pool will encompass. 

7. Decking

Decking is the area surrounding the perimeter of the pool. Many people use concrete or wood to create a deck area near the pool. Some people use travertine or other tiles to complete their landscape aesthetic. 

8. Mastic

Mastic follows installation of coping and decking. This is the material that seals the pool perimeter and joints. It is a flexible sealant that provides a decorative finish when complete. 

9. Control Center

The control center is the equipment that controls your pool’s operation. This may include wifi capabilities, scheduling, and digital automation. You can often control every aspect of your pool from this console, including lights, heating, jets, and other equipment. 

10. Main Trench

The main trench is where all of the plumbing pipes come together. This is usually between 9 and 14 pipes. The trench is a central location that can branch off to make sure each pipe gets where it needs to go. It runs from equipment to the control center, or to other equipment. 

By understanding these 10 pool construction terms, you can be more involved in the pool installation process. You don’t have to be in construction to understand basic terminology. Review these terms and don’t be afraid to ask your pool builder if you don’t understand something that is happening. 

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