Assembling The Belize Pool: A Step-By-Step Guide

The Blue Wave Belize above-ground pool is a popular choice for those looking to add a swimming pool to their backyard. It comes in a variety of shapes and sizes, including round and oval, and different depths, such as 48 or 52 inches. The pool is designed to be easy to install, with comprehensive instructions provided, and all the necessary accessories included, such as a pump and filter system, liner, ladder, and skimmer. The steel walls and frame of the pool are protected by a corrosion-resistant coating, ensuring longevity. While some customers have praised the pool, others have criticised the complicated instructions and the quality of certain components.

Preparing the ground

The Blue Wave Belize pool is an above-ground pool that requires some site preparation before installation. Here are the steps to prepare the ground and ensure a correct setup:

Firstly, choose the location for your pool and remove any sod or existing vegetation. Ensure the area is level by packing the soil with a tamper. It is crucial to achieve a level surface within an inch to prevent the risk of the pool collapsing.

Next, mark the center of the pool area and the circumference of the pool. For instance, if you have a 27-foot round pool, mark 13.5 feet from the center. This will help you visualize the pool's position and ensure it is centered correctly.

After marking the center and circumference, it's time to add a crushed stone base. Spread a few loads of crushed stone and rake it out to create a flat and level surface. Use a level attached to a 2 x 4 board to check the radius of the circle and ensure it is level. Once you have a level base, tamp down the crushed stone to compact it and ensure stability.

Double-check the level of the base using the 2 x 4 board. Make any necessary adjustments by filling in low areas with more crushed stone and scraping down any high areas. You can also use a transit to verify all your measurements and ensure the entire circle is within an inch of being level.

Additionally, ensure you have the necessary permits for pool installation. Swimming pools may be regulated by your city, county, or state, and it is your responsibility as the homeowner to obtain the required permits. Check with your city's code enforcement department to understand the specific requirements and regulations.

By carefully following these steps, you will have a solid and level foundation for your Belize pool, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for you and your family.

Building the walls

First, insert the wall into the bottom rail. When you have gone the diameter of the pool, use bolts, washers, and nuts to hold the two ends together. The wall is made of steel and is designed to be reasonably lightweight for easy installation.

The next step is to install the skimmer and liner, followed by the top rail and upper joint. The skimmer and regular return outlets are pre-punched in the wall for ease of installation. The top rail and uprights are made from thick-gauge galvanized steel and provide a heavy-duty structure for the pool.

Once the walls are built, you can fill your pool with water, checking often to ensure everything stays in place. Finally, put your Blue Wave pool steps in the desired location.

Installing the skimmer and liner

Prepare the Site:

Before beginning installation, carefully review the instructions provided with your Belize pool. Ensure you have a suitable installation site and gather all the necessary tools and materials. It is recommended to have at least one or two assistants to help with the process.

Attach the Weir to the Skimmer:

The weir is a flap that attaches to the skimmer and mirrors the water level in the pool. Using the smallest screws from your hardware pack and a number 2 bit on your drill, attach the weir to the inside portion of the skimmer's frame. Line up the slots on the weir with the holes on the skimmer, starting with the middle hole and working outwards. Be cautious not to overtighten the screws, as the plastic can crack under too much pressure.

Attach the Vacuum Port Cover:

Using the fourth small screw from your hardware pack, secure the vacuum port cover to the bottom of the skimmer's faceplate. This hole on the faceplate is typically smaller than the rest.

Attach Gaskets to the Pool Wall:

Place the skimmer and vacuum port gaskets on the pool wall, ensuring they form a seal to prevent leaks. Work carefully to avoid the sharp edges of the wall. Align all the holes on the gasket with the holes on the pool wall.

Prepare the Skimmer Faceplate:

From inside the pool, use your fingers to locate the top corner holes of the skimmer gasket. Pre-punch these holes in the liner using the provided screws. Remove the screws and repeat for the second hole. Insert two screws into the upper corners of the skimmer faceplate and line them up with the pre-punched holes. This will help keep the faceplate in place while you attach the skimmer.

Attach the Skimmer to the Wall:

With assistance, hold the skimmer up to the outside of the pool wall, lining up the top corners with those on the pool wall. Secure the top corners of the skimmer to the wall using a hand-held or cordless drill. Ensure all screw holes are lined up, then go back and tighten each screw. Cut the liner from the inside of the skimmer's faceplate and vacuum cleaner port using a sharp razor blade or box cutter.

Add Skimmer Accessories:

Finally, add the skimmer basket and lid to the skimmer. Your skimmer installation is now complete!

Please note that the above instructions are general guidelines, and you should always refer to the specific instructions provided with your Belize pool for the most accurate and safe installation procedure.

Adding the top rail and upper joint

To add the top rail and upper joint to your Belize pool, follow these steps:

Firstly, you will need to have already assembled the pool wall and pool frame. The top rail and upper joint will be added to the top of the pool wall, connecting it to the top caps and providing a sturdy frame for the rest of the pool.

The top rail should be made of durable 6-inch steel and will form a circle around the top of the pool wall. The upper joint is the point at which the top rail connects to the pool wall. This joint needs to be secure and strong as it will bear a lot of weight and pressure.

To add the top rail, start by placing the steel rail on top of the pool wall, lining up the joints. You may need to enlist some help for this step as the rail will be heavy and awkward to manoeuvre. Once the top rail is in place, you can begin to attach it to the pool wall using the provided hardware.

The hardware included with your Belize pool should be zinc-coated to prevent corrosion and have enlarged heads for easy fastening with standard screwdrivers and drill bits. Follow the instructions provided with your pool to securely fasten the top rail to the pool wall. Ensure that all connections are tight and secure before moving on to the next step.

Once the top rail is securely fastened, you can add the finishing touches, such as the resin seat covers, which give the pool a sleek, modern look.

Filling the pool with water

It is important to note that preparing the ground and levelling the sand are crucial steps before filling the pool with water. Compacting and levelling the sand will ensure that the pool has a solid foundation and help prevent pressure points that could damage the frame. Additionally, it is recommended to dampen the sand before tamping to achieve a firmer surface.

When filling the pool with water, it is a good idea to have a helper to ensure that the process goes smoothly. One person can monitor the water level and check for any leaks or issues, while the other can handle the water supply. It is crucial to fill the pool slowly and evenly to avoid placing too much pressure on one side, which could lead to structural issues.

Once the pool is filled to the recommended level, usually about 6 inches below the wall height, you can start the pump and filter system to begin circulating and cleaning the water. Refer to the pump's instructions for proper setup and maintenance.

Remember to follow the instructions that come with your Belize pool for the most accurate and up-to-date information. The installation process may vary slightly depending on the specific model and features of your pool.

Frequently asked questions