Behind the Scenes: How We're Building a Pool and Retaining Wall System in Granville
Double B Excavations & Grade LLC
More Than Just a Pool
WHY PROPER PHASING MAKES ALL THE DIFFERENCE
When most people think about putting in a pool, they picture the end result - those perfect summer days spent by the water.
But here in Granville, we're in the thick of what it really takes to make those summer dreams come true.
It's not just about digging a hole and filling it with water.
We're talking about a complex system of retaining walls, drainage solutions, and careful engineering that all have to work together.
As we wrap up another phase of work before Labor Day weekend, I wanted to give you a look behind the scenes.
Because understanding how these pieces fit together helps explain why we can't rush the process - and why that's actually a good thing for your investment.
Welcome to Double B!
Project Components Overview
Let's break down what we're actually building here in Granville. You've got the pool itself, of course. But supporting that pool is a carefully designed retaining wall system, and behind that wall we're putting in a French drain. These aren't separate pieces - they're all part of one system that needs to work together.
The pool pump and equipment will be stationed at a specific spot we've already mapped out. Every decision about placement matters because it affects everything else. Think of it like a puzzle - each piece needs to fit just right, and trying to force things or rush the process only leads to problems down the road.
The retaining wall isn't just holding back dirt - it's providing crucial support for the entire setup. And that French drain we're planning? It's going to keep water moving away from the wall, protecting both the wall and the pool from potential issues years from now. This is why we take our time and do things in the right order.
Current Phase Details
Right now in Granville, we're at a critical stage. We've got the backfilling done, which might look simple but is actually pretty detailed work. If you drive by, you'll notice a bunch of stone placed around the pool - and no, it's not just sitting there looking pretty. That stone is doing an important job, providing pressure in all the right places until we can get the concrete collar installed.
Some folks might wonder why we don't just knock it all out at once. But here's the thing: rushing these steps is how you end up with problems later. Each phase needs time to settle and set properly. Think of it like building a house - you wouldn't want someone putting up your roof before the foundation's had time to cure.
Next Steps in the Process
Looking ahead, we've got several key phases mapped out. That French drain we mentioned? It's going to run behind the entire wall, providing a path for water to flow away from both the wall and pool. We'll be using specific types of stone for this - not just any gravel will do. The pool pump area needs careful preparation too, making sure all the plumbing and electrical components have proper access and protection.
One of the biggest pieces still to come is the patio integration. This isn't just about making things look nice - it's about creating a complete system where the patio, pool, and drainage all work together. Some of the stone you see now will need to be moved or adjusted as we work through these phases.
Technical Insights
Let's talk about why all these details matter. When you're holding back earth with a retaining wall, pressure management isn't just important - it's crucial. That's why we've got temporary stone placement doing such important work right now. It's providing even pressure distribution until we can get that concrete collar in place.
The drainage system we're putting in isn't just about keeping water away from the pool. It's about protecting the entire investment. A properly designed French drain system works quietly in the background, preventing the kind of water buildup that can cause big problems down the road. Every slope, every layer of stone, every connection point - they all play a part in making sure this system works reliably for years to come.
Project Management Approach
Here's something I've learned over years of doing this kind of work: good project management often means knowing when to step back. That's why we plan our returns to this Granville site in specific phases. It's not about dragging out the work - it's about giving each component the time and attention it needs.
Working with other contractors is another big piece of this puzzle. The concrete team needs their time for the collar, the patio folks need their window for installation, and we need to coordinate with the pool company throughout. It's like conducting a symphony - everybody has their part to play, and timing matters.
Looking Forward
As we head into Labor Day weekend, this Granville project is right where it needs to be. Sure, there's still plenty of work ahead - more stone to place, drainage to install, and final grading to complete. But that's exactly how it should be. Quality work takes time, and we'd rather do it right than do it fast.
When we return after the holiday, we'll start on the French drain system and continue prepping for the pool equipment installation. Each phase builds on the last one, creating a complete system that's built to last.
Need Help Planning?
If you're thinking about a pool installation or retaining wall project in central Ohio, understanding these phases is important. We're always happy to walk properties with homeowners and explain how we'd approach your specific situation. Because whether it's a pool, a retaining wall, or any other excavation project, the key to long-term success is in the details.
