Navigating the Unique Challenges of Coastal Pool Construction in Long Island’s Sandy Terrain

Building a gunite pool in Suffolk County, New York presents distinct challenges that coastal homeowners must understand before breaking ground. The region’s characteristic sandy soil and elevated water table create a complex construction environment that requires specialized expertise and proven techniques to ensure long-term success.

Understanding Suffolk County’s Geological Challenges

Suffolk County’s coastal location brings unique soil conditions that significantly impact pool construction. Long Island’s sandy soil affects how cesspools perform and how long they last, and these same conditions create specific challenges for gunite pool installation. If the soil is loose and sandy then much more stone will be needed to control the water during construction.

The region’s proximity to sea level means that pool locations that are very close to sea level elevation will likely encounter groundwater issues. If your real close to the shore the tides can be a factor. We dug quite a few jobs on Long Island Sound factoring in the tide.

How Sandy Soil Affects Gunite Pool Construction

Sandy soil presents both advantages and challenges for pool construction. While it offers excellent drainage properties, sandy soil’s excellent drainage can be a double-edged sword. While it reduces the risk of water pooling, it also means you’ll need to pay extra attention to moisture retention during the curing process.

During excavation, in an open excavated hole, sandy soil may cause the walls to collapse. To address sandy soil, they may frame the excavated hole with plywood to hold its shape until gunite is applied. This instability requires contractors to implement additional support measures throughout the construction process.

High Water Table Impact on Concrete Curing

Suffolk County’s high water table creates significant challenges for concrete curing processes. I know we have higher water table as most pools need to be built up out of the ground a few feet to handle high water table as well as high tides, storm flooding etc. When groundwater is present, concrete (also called gunite) pools take much longer to install, typically three to six months or even more. This makes the process of ground water removal a long term burden on such projects.

However, water presence during curing isn’t always detrimental. Ground water will become your concrete’s friend as it will aid curing processes. Chemical reaction of hydration allows microscopic crystals of Portland cement to grow and interlock as sand and gravel together continues to happen for days, weeks and months after concrete has been poured and it needs water to complete this chemical reaction.

Professional Solutions for Coastal Construction

Experienced pool contractors employ several strategies to overcome these challenges. You might need additional drainage such as an underground well/sump pump system to help mitigate water pressure. Then have your gravel delivery company bring you enough 3/4″ stone to fill in your over dug areas to within 2″ from your finished floor level. If the soil is very sandy and loamy you will need more gravel than if you have a tight clay soil, to keep the water flowing.

For areas with particularly challenging conditions, out-of-ground swimming pools provide custom style and added functionality when these elevated gunite designs are used to overcome backyard construction challenges like slopes, problem soil, hard ground, or underground water.

The Importance of Expert Installation

Given these complexities, choosing an experienced local contractor is crucial. A high water table is an equal opportunity pool-destroyer, doesn’t matter which kind of pool. I’d be very wary of allowing a PB to fashion the proper solution for that without some sort of soil engineering specialist’s oversight.

JAS Aquatics, serving Suffolk County since 2009, understands these unique coastal challenges. Since 2009, JAS Aquatics has been creating stunning outdoor spaces with custom in-ground swimming pools as their centerpiece. When it comes to your backyard, you should never settle for anything less than what you want, and we remain committed to bringing your backyard to life with quality materials, superior construction, and exceptional customer service.

Long-term Success Through Proper Planning

Successful coastal pool construction requires understanding that the soil type can compound the problem greatly. Water moves through sand so quickly nothing is stable. Professional contractors address this by implementing comprehensive dewatering systems and using specialized construction techniques designed for coastal environments.

The key to a successful project lies in proper preparation and expert execution. Professional pool contractors are accustomed to these kinds of challenges and have solutions for the majority of them. Tactics vary by the nature of the challenge and building practices in the local market.

For homeowners considering Gunite Pools Suffolk County, NY, understanding these challenges upfront ensures realistic expectations and successful project outcomes. Working with experienced local professionals who understand the region’s unique geological conditions is essential for creating a beautiful, durable pool that will provide years of enjoyment despite the challenging coastal environment.

With proper planning, expert installation, and specialized techniques designed for Suffolk County’s unique conditions, homeowners can successfully navigate the challenges of sandy soil and high water tables to create their dream backyard oasis.