How National Pools of Roanoke Brings Your Dream Pool to Life
Building the Pool of Your Dreams: The National Pools of Roanoke Experience
When you think about having a pool in your backyard, it’s easy to imagine relaxing afternoons, pool parties, and a sparkling oasis just steps from your door. But behind every stunning pool is a team dedicated to making sure it’s not only beautiful but also expertly built to last for years to come. At National Pools of Roanoke, Inc., we believe that creating your dream pool should be an exciting and rewarding journey — and we’re here to guide you through every step of the process.
From innovative design to precise construction, we take care of it all. So, what really goes into building a pool that’s as functional as it is gorgeous? Let's dive in.
The Design Process: Where Vision Meets Precision
Every great pool begins with thoughtful planning, and at National Pools of Roanoke, we use state-of-the-art Computer-Aided Design (CAD) to bring your ideas to life. All of our swimming pools and spas are designed in-house, which means you’ll be working directly with experts who care about every detail of your project.
Our CAD plans aren’t just rough sketches — they are highly detailed blueprints that include everything from dimension layouts and plumbing routes to wall sections and filtration systems. Every pool design includes a complete dimension layout with the exact placement of steps, seats, lights, jets, and plumbing fittings. You’ll also see a precise plumbing layout that maps out every pipe, including line sizes and routes, so future maintenance is simple and stress-free.
We don’t stop there. You’ll also get a section view that shows pool depths and floor slopes, along with a detailed wall section that displays every material involved in construction — from rebar size to plaster color. Even the filtration equipment layout is included, so you’ll know exactly how and where everything works to keep your water sparkling clean.
Our plans are designed to meet and exceed the International Pool and Spa Code (IPSC), ensuring your pool is safe, efficient, and up to modern standards. And if required, we can provide engineer-stamped plans for building department approvals.
To help you truly visualize the final product, we also offer 3D designs, giving you a realistic preview of your new pool — and soon, you’ll even be able to take virtual tours of your future backyard retreat!
Every set of drawings is carefully archived, so if you ever need a copy for repairs or renovations years down the line, we’ve got it covered.
The Construction Process: Bringing Your Pool to Life
Once the design is perfected, it’s time to turn that vision into reality. Our construction process is thorough, organized, and handled entirely by seasoned professionals who know pools inside and out.
Step 1: Layout and Excavation
Using the CAD drawings as a guide, our team lays out the pool’s exact shape and position with precision tools and techniques. After that, excavation begins — carving the pool shape directly into the earth, with extra depth to make room for the strong pool shell. Whether the soil stays onsite for landscaping or is hauled away, we’ll handle it all.
Step 2: Forming and Sub-Base Preparation
Next, wooden forms define the pool’s perimeter and any raised features. Beneath it all, we create a solid sub-base of crushed stone to prevent settling. As the stone is set, our team begins carefully installing the plumbing system.
Step 3: Plumbing — The Heart of Your Pool
Using only high-grade NSF-approved “Schedule 40” PVC, our in-house experts — some of whom have been with us for over 30 years — install every pipe with care. This system will keep your pool’s water flowing smoothly for years to come, and we pressure-test everything to ensure there are no leaks before moving forward.
Step 4: Steel Reinforcement — Strength You Can Trust
To give your pool unmatched durability, we install a steel-reinforcing grid that’s strong enough to handle the test of time. Additional reinforcements are added to deeper areas, and cinder blocks are used to ensure the perfect positioning of steel.
Step 5: Concrete and Gunite Shell — The Backbone of Luxury Pools
The pool floor is poured using high-strength concrete, and then the walls, benches, and steps are crafted using Gunite — a premium concrete blend sprayed on by our certified nozzlemen. Gunite is what makes custom shapes, deep ends, and beautiful curves possible. Its strength (testing over 4000+ PSI) means your pool will stand strong for decades.
Step 6: Tile and Coping — The Finishing Touches Begin
Once the structure is set, our artisans carefully install a six-inch band of waterline tile around the pool, followed by coping — the decorative stone or brick around the pool’s edge. These elements define the aesthetic of your pool, and our skilled craftsmen ensure every line is perfect.
Step 7: Filtration Equipment — Keeping It Crystal Clear
While the beauty of the pool takes shape, we install the essential equipment that will keep it running smoothly. Pumps, filters, and heaters (if desired) are sized perfectly for your pool’s volume and flow rate to ensure crystal-clear water with minimal effort.
Step 8: Decking, Fencing, and Utilities
With the pool in place, it’s time to build out the surrounding areas. Although decking, fencing, and utility hookups are handled by certified contractors, we coordinate with these teams to ensure everything flows together. Whether it’s a beautiful patio, secure fencing, or gas and electric connections, we’ll guide you every step of the way.
Step 9: Plaster — The Final Layer of Beauty
Finally, we finish the pool interior with a smooth coat of plaster or exposed aggregate, available in stunning colors like white, grey, or black. This durable surface requires special care as it cures, and we’ll guide you on how to brush and balance water chemistry to keep it flawless. Once the plaster is in and the pool is filled, your dream pool is officially ready to enjoy!
Why National Pools of Roanoke?
At National Pools of Roanoke, we don’t just build pools — we create lasting experiences. From the very first sketch to the first splash, our team is with you every step of the way, combining decades of expertise with modern technology to craft pools that are stunning, safe, and built to last.
If you’re ready to bring your dream pool to life — whether it’s a peaceful retreat or a show-stopping backyard centerpiece — contact us today to schedule a consultation. Let’s make your vision a reality and create a space where you’ll make memories for years to come.
