Requirements for Install

[nock]

Hi all. I'm a newbie here and I'm sure this question has been asked and answered before, but I can't find a thread on it. In any case, we are considering a new pool (would prefer fiberglass) and our local installer has a "prebuild FAQ" that says they require no less than 8 feet of clearance from the house in order to get machines in to dig a pool hole. Our home only has 5-7 feet of clearance between the house and the fenceline. As far as I can tell, this is pretty typical for our area and California in general (especially for newer subdivisions). Does anyone know if this is a general rule of thumb or just this installer? I'm not sure if it matters, but the pool we would want would be on the smaller size.

 

[ajw22]

Welcome to TFP.

There are Bobcats and mini-excavators that are a lot less then 8 feet wide. Talk to other installers.

@jimmythegreek what width access do you need for dig equipment?

 

[malba2366]

Can be done with smaller machines but it will cost more as the dig will take longer. Also will cost more if they will have to use a crane to hoist the fiberglass pool shell over your house and into your backyard.

 

[jimmythegreek]

My little machine has retractable tracks amd gets thru 4ft gates...but the bucket is tiny. They cam dig a pool anywhere a good size mini amd a skidsteer need 6ft can downsize for 5ft if needed just more trips as said above. Just coats a little more, it helps if you have great neighbors on one side at least. I worked in the city on a rowhouses with no access. The addition was dug by hand with a bucket line thru the house and took several days, was amazing to watch.

 

[S S]

The builders I spoke to-charged anywhere from 2K -5K extra for the mini bobcat excavations-(Im in So. Cal.)