DIY Natural Swimming Pool Recap
Since building our own DIY natural swimming pool last summer, I have had so many people asking questions about it. It took us 3-4 months to get it done, from beginning to end, as there were just 2 of us and we had to work on it around other parts of our schedule.
I spread out my postings about it as things were moving along. So I thought it might be a good idea to offer another single post with all of the steps in one place. In this post, I list each stage with a few pics and a link to the more detailed description of the process.
Each post has multiple video updates of the progress of the construction. So be sure and check those out!
Stage 1
Our first natural pool post deals with all of the design and planning stages and the initial digging and cleaning out of the ENORMOUS hole in our backyard. This gives you a pretty decent idea of what it took to get going with this project.
The initial design of our pool which ended up getting tweaked just a little in the end. The first scoop was an exciting step forward for us! Logan and Mason grabbed the shovels and started scraping up loose dirt and clay left behind. Removing debris one bucket at a time Standing at the bottom of the hole
DIY Natural Swimming Pool Stage 1 *HERE*
This this where is you can and see the details; pics and video of the beginning stage of building our Natural Swimming Pool.
Stage 2
The second section of our pool postings deals with digging and setting the perimeter posts for the decking framework as well as building the retaining wall. We also got the under liner and one side of the liner in place. We explain the process as we designed and installed the regeneration side of the pool, to include the plumbing and retainer.
Digging holes for deck posts Tamping retaining wall Underliner installed Early stages of regeneration area
DIY Natural Swimming Pool Stage 2 *HERE*
This is where you can go enjoy the second stage of our Natural Pool Build.
Stage 3
The stage 3 post deals with installation and seaming of the pool liner and continuing the deck framing. It also deals with building the pump house and adding the plumbing and electrical.
Plumbing within deck framework Still moving massive liner roll Priming seam Upper seam on spillway Building the plumbing (and then the pump house around it)
DIY Natural Swimming Pool Stage 3 *HERE*
Be sure to check out all the information in our stage 3 posting!
Stage 4
Stage 4 deals with the a few other necessary projects that had to be done before the water could go in, like the stairs and the spillway walk that separates the two sides of the pool. It also deals with the skimmer construction and installation. We also talk about the installation of an aerator as well as the planting of the regeneration side. In this post, we also talk about an issue that we ended up having after the water went in as well as what we had to do to fix it.
Putting in decking Building spillway walkway Showing off my newly arrived water lily plants Cutting stringers for stairs DIY Skimmer construction
DIY Natural Swimming Pool Stage 4 *HERE*
Be sure to go and see all that we have in stage 4!
The Finishing Touch
So the pool was complete and always occupied, but I wanted to add a little more softness to some of the hard edges. I added 2 beautiful perennial beds and it really completed the look.
Placing plants North bed planted West bed planted West Perennial Flower Bed, ready
Final Touches, Installing Perennial Beds *HERE*
Natural Pools are such a terrific way to go if you are looking into putting in a pool. There are no chemicals at all and it is such an incredibly beautiful look. More importantly, as we’ve shown, it is entirely doable as a DIY.
You have full control of your design and if you are able to do it yourself, you can save tens of thousands of dollars. To prove that one, I’ll tell you that I have a friend who is currently making payments on their $60,000 swimming pool. We spent less than $5000.
There are a lot of great books out there that you can study up on if this is something that you think you would like to take on. Personally, I don’t think you will regret it. Below, are just a few of the books available. And, of course, as always, I’ll be happy to answer any questions that I can! Just leave me a comment!
How to Build a Natural Swimming Pool
A Guide to Building Natural Swimming Pools
NEVER MISS A THING!!
Be sure to check out the other awesome content on Two Oaks Farm Talk as well as A Life on the Farm for the more personal side of the homestead life. And don’t forget to go subscribe to the Two Oaks Farmstead Youtube Channel for all kinds of terrific content!!!
