Pool Construction – Excavation Preparation and Layout Notes

Junning Wang
Sep 22, 2025
2 min read

18.9.2025

Junning Wang

Landscape Designer, Horvath Landscapes Inc.

Step 1: Pool Layout Marking

Use a measuring tape to locate and confirm the four corner points of the pool perimeter. Drive stakes or nails into the ground at each corner, then connect them with mason’s string or chalk line to outline the pool footprint. Spray along the lines with marking paint to clearly mark the pool boundary.

Purpose: Ensures the pool’s position, dimensions, and shape are accurately established on site before excavation begins.

Step 2: Elevation Marking

Refer to the manufacturer’s drawings or installation manual for elevation details. For example, a Sirus 12x24 pool may show a shallow depth of 48 inches and a maximum depth of 72 inches, with changes specified every 2 feet. Mark these depths on site using stakes or rods, and paint the elevation marks directly on them to serve as excavation guides.

Purpose: Establishes precise depth markers to ensure the excavation follows the intended pool profile.

Step 3: Excavation Setup with Laser Level

Before digging, extend the painted outline outward slightly to create a safety buffer. This prevents under-digging due to operator error. During excavation, use a laser level system, which typically includes a transmitter and two receivers. Mark the required elevations (e.g., 48") on a wooden rod, attach the receiver at that point, and face it toward the transmitter. The receiver will emit beeps at different frequencies—the faster the beeping, the closer you are to the target elevation. Pairing this system with the excavator allows the operator to quickly judge whether to continue digging or stop.

Purpose: Provides accurate depth control during excavation and improves efficiency.

Step 4: Excavation Depth and Screed Rail Setup (Sirus 12x24 Example)

Depth Calculation

Set Finish Grade (FG) = 0".
Allow 2.5" coping + pool depth (48" shallow / 72" deep) + 3.5“ gravel base.
Required excavation: 51" shallow, 75" deep.
After adding gravel, effective base height: 44.5"–48.5" shallow end.

Pit Requirements

Shallow end: maintain 48" depth.
Deep end: maintain 72" depth.
Middle slope: follow manual, mark elevations every 2 ft.
Pit dimensions must exceed pool shell size to avoid installation issues.

Screed Rail Installation

Place two 20’4" master screed rails in deep end:
- First rail: 1’3" from north wall, 1’9" from east shell, 2’1" from west shell.
- Second rail: 8’4" south of the first rail.
Check accuracy with diagonal measurement: Sirus 12x24 diagonal = 21’12".