Step-by-Step Excavation Guide

Professional Pool Company — What Happens During the Dig Phase of Your Pool Build

Excavation is one of the most exciting moments in your project — it’s when your pool finally takes shape. This guide walks you through each step of the excavation process so you know what to expect and why this phase is so important.

⭐ 1. Pre-Excavation Preparation

Before excavation begins, several items must be completed:

✔ Permit Approved

We cannot dig until your county/city issues the official permit.

✔ HOA Approval (if required)

Some HOAs require a copy of the design and survey.

✔ Layout Scheduled

Our layout crew marks the exact location of your pool using:

• Stakes
• Spray paint
• String lines
• Laser-level elevation measurements

✔ Access Reviewed

We inspect access points to ensure equipment can enter safely.

✔ Utilities Marked

We confirm utility line locations to avoid underground conflicts.

This prep ensures a smooth, safe dig day.

⭐ 2. Layout of the Pool Shape

Our team outlines the exact dimensions of your pool on the ground.

This includes:

✔ Perimeter of the pool

✔ Steps, benches, sunshelf

✔ Spa (if applicable)

✔ Deck outline (in some cases)

✔ Equipment pad location

We will send you a layout photo for approval when applicable.

⭐ 3. Equipment Arrival

Excavation typically uses:

• Skid steer or front-end loader
• Mini-excavator (if tight access)
• Dump trucks for dirt removal
• Crew vehicles and support equipment

Heavy machinery is expected — this is a normal part of the process.

⭐ 4. Digging Begins

The excavation crew begins digging according to the engineering plan.

The crew will:

• Remove topsoil and grass
• Excavate to the correct depth
• Shape steps, benches, and shelves
• Form the walls and floor
• Clean up loose soil

We use lasers and measuring tools to maintain precise elevations.

⭐ 5. Hauling Away Dirt

Your pool removes many tons of dirt depending on size and depth.

We haul dirt to trucks throughout the day.

This may temporarily block the driveway or street as trucks rotate out.

Hauling is part of every standard dig.

⭐ 6. Pool Shell Carefully Shaped

The excavation team carves the exact shape of the pool:

✔ Corners outlined

✔ Steps formed

✔ Spa bowl shaped

✔ Transition slopes smoothed

✔ Depth transitions set (sport bottom, deep end, etc.)

This shaping ensures the steel crew can accurately build the rebar structure.

⭐ 7. Access Path Maintained

We keep pathways open for the next phases:

• Steel
• Plumbing
• Electrical
• Gunite

Proper access is essential for efficiency.

⭐ 8. Soil Compaction & Stability Check

The crew checks for:

• Loose pockets
• Soft soil
• Organic debris
• Water intrusion
• Unstable slopes

If needed, areas may be compacted or adjusted for structural safety.

⭐ 9. Rough Grading Around the Pool

We smooth out surrounding areas so the steel, plumbing, and gunite crews have a clean, safe workspace.

This also helps ensure proper drainage.

⭐ 10. End-of-Day Cleanup

Before leaving, the team:

• Removes debris
• Clears access routes
• Levels the area as needed
• Ensures no hazards remain

You’ll be able to walk the perimeter (not inside) to see the full shape of your pool.

⭐ 11. What Homeowners Can Expect During Dig Day

Noise

Excavation uses heavy machinery — expect loud equipment.

Dirt

Digging exposes a large amount of soil — the yard will look messy temporarily.

Vibration

Some vibration is normal when machinery is close to the home.

Temporary yard disruption

Grass and landscaping near the access path may be disturbed.

Fast progress

Most excavations are completed in one full day for standard pools, two days for larger builds.

⭐ 12. Common Questions

“Can I walk inside the excavated area?”

No — for safety, do not enter the pool hole.

“Will the weather affect excavation?”

Heavy rain or soaked ground may require rescheduling.

“What if you hit rock or unexpected soil?”

We address it immediately and discuss any engineering adjustments if needed.

“What happens after excavation?”

Next steps:

1. Plumbing
2. Steel reinforcement
3. County inspection
4. Gunite shell

⭐ 13. Summary: Excavation Is the First Major Milestone

During excavation, you can expect:

✔ Exact pool layout marked

✔ Shape carved according to plan

✔ Soil removed from the property

✔ Steps, benches, and depths formed

✔ Site cleaned for the next phase

Once excavation is completed, your pool officially begins to take shape.

⭐ Have Questions on Dig Day?

We’re always available to walk you through what’s happening.

👉 Reach out anytime for updates during excavation.

Updated on: 28/11/2025