Final Touches and Filling the Pool - Preparing for Your First Swim

The journey to building your dream pool is almost complete! After excavation, construction, and finishing, we enter Step 5: Final Touches and Filling the Pool—the last stage before you can officially dive in.

This step ensures that every detail is perfect, your equipment is running smoothly, and your water is safe and balanced. Let's dive in to the last step so you know what to expect.

Applying the Interior Finish

Bringing Color and Texture to Life

The final interior finish gives your pool its look, feel, and waterproof layer. Depending on your preferences, this may include:

• Plaster: Smooth and classic

• Pebble finishes: Textured, durable, and visually striking

• Quartz finishes: A blend of beauty and strength

Our team applies this layer carefully, ensuring consistency and durability. The finish not only defines the color and texture of your pool but also protects the underlying gunite shell.

Filling the Pool

Adding Water Safely and Gradually

Once the interior finish cures (which can take 1-2 days), we begin filling the pool with water. This process:

• Allows the interior finish to set evenly

• Helps prevent cracking or discoloration

• Marks the beginning of balancing your water chemistry

The pool fill typically takes 12-36 hours, depending on pool size and water pressure.

Equipment Startup and Testing

Ensuring Everything Runs Smoothly

With the pool filled, we begin equipment startup:

• Priming and testing pumps

• Running filtration systems

• Activating water features (jets, waterfalls, spas)

• Testing lighting systems and automation controls

Our team makes sure everything functions properly, verifying that your pool’s systems are ready for daily use.

Balancing Water Chemistry

Achieving the Perfect Pool Water

We carefully balance the water chemistry to:

• Ensure safe and comfortable swimming conditions

• Protect the interior finish and equipment

• Maintain crystal-clear water

This includes adjusting:

• pH levels

• Chlorine or sanitation systems

• Calcium hardness

• Alkalinity

Our team uses professional-grade testing to ensure your water is perfectly balanced before your first swim.

Pool Orientation

Teaching You How to Care for Your Pool

Before we hand over the pool, we provide a personalized orientation session:

• Teach you how to operate pumps, filters, and automation systems

• Show you how to test and maintain water chemistry

• Walk through seasonal care tips (important for North Texas weather)

Our goal is to make sure you feel confident and comfortable managing your new pool.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pool Construction

How long does the interior finish take to cure?

Most finishes cure in 1-2 weeks, depending on the material and weather conditions. After curing, we can safely begin filling the pool.

Do I need to hire a pool service after completion?

While we show you how to maintain your pool during pool school, many homeowners choose professional maintenance for convenience. We can recommend trusted providers in North Texas or set you up with a starter service.

What happens if equipment doesn’t function properly?

Before final handoff, we thoroughly test all systems. If there are any issues, we address them immediately. Your equipment also comes with warranties for added peace of mind.

Can I swim immediately after the pool is filled?

After the water is balanced and the equipment is tested—typically within 24-48 hours—you’re ready to enjoy your new pool!

Enjoy Your New Pool with Confidence!

The final touches and filling process are the last steps in making your dream pool a reality. At Signature Outdoor Design, we ensure that every detail—from the interior finish to equipment setup—is perfect so you can relax and enjoy your backyard.

Serving Frisco, Prosper, Celina, McKinney, and other North Texas communities, we specialize in building custom gunite pools that fit your lifestyle.

Are you ready to get your dream pool started? Contact us for a free quote today.