COMMON QUESTIONS
Expertly Guiding Your Pool
Diving into a new pool project is an exciting journey, but it comes with plenty of questions. We have mapped out answers to everything from Council approvals, construction stages to final handover. Explore our FAQs below to see exactly how we bring your dream pool to life.
What is the first step to starting my project?
A detailed consultation helps us understand your space and vision, whether in person on site or via plans and photographs. We review access, levels and design options with you to determine the best approach for your pool. Call or message Porpoise Pools to get your project started now.
When is the best time of year to build?
The autumn and winter months (April through August) are widely considered the best time to build a pool in Southeast Queensland. Starting your project during the cooler, typically drier seasons generally facilitates a project less likely to be affected by inclement weather.
Does Porpoise Pools organise engineering and council approval?
Yes! At Porpoise Pools, we handle the design, engineering and council approval process for you, taking the stress out of compliance.
Can you design a pool for small or sloped yards?
Absolutely! Challenging sites are where good design shines. We regularly design pools for compact or sloped blocks, making smart use of retaining walls, levels and views to maximise usable spaces.
What are some of the obstacles with building a pool in South-East Qld?
Building a custom pool in South-East Queensland can come with unique geographical, structural, and regulatory challenges. Obstacles can include inclement Qld weather, subsurface surprises (such as bedrock), tricky terrain and narrow access, infrastructure and council overlays, overhead and underground hazards. Porpoise Pools expertly navigates these
challenges in close consultation with you.
What are the stages of construction?
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Phase 1: Planning: Design, Contract, Approvals
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Phase 2: Excavation & Earthworks
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Phase 3: Steel Fix & Plumbing
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Phase 4: Concrete Pour & Curing
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Phase 5: Coping, Surrounds & Tiling
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Phase 6: Fencing & Safety Certification
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Phase 7: Pool Interior, Start-up and Handover
What factors influence the final pricing?
Pricing is determined by pool size, structural requirements, site access, choice of finishes (like tiles or pebble), equipment choices and any integrated features like heating or automation.
How long does the build take?
Building a custom pool requires coordination from structural engineering to completion. The actual construction sequence is fairly standard. Most custom builds in Brisbane are completed within 12-16 weeks from permit approval, depending on the complexity of the project. While we aim for this timeline, several local variables can introduce delays. (See FAQ - Obstacles).
FAQ's - Design & Construction
What's the difference between a saltwater and a mineral pool?
While both systems use an automated chlorinator to keep your pool water clean and safe to swim in, the difference lies in the ingredients. Saltwater pools contain ordinary pool salt (sodium chloride), whereas mineral pools use a premium blend of salts featuring natural elements such as magnesium and potassium that deliver a noticeably silkier, therapeutic swim that is incredibly gentle on sensitive skin and eyes.
What are the pool fencing laws?
Queensland enforces some of the strictest pool safety laws in the world to prevent accidental drownings. All residential pools and spas capable of holding more than 300mm of water must adhere to the Queensland Development Code MP 3.4. Local councils routinely conduct random inspections and can issue heavy on-the-spot fines for non-compliance. Porpoise Pools strictly adheres to the current pool fencing regulations.
For a comprehensive list of the current regulations, please refer to the Queensland Government Website.
FAQ's - Pool Completion
Is pool maintenance difficult?
Modern magnesium and salt-water systems do most of the work for you, making care simple and cost-effective. At Porpoise Pools, we provide a full 'handover' session to step you through pool maintenance, trouble-shooting and general pool care, with confidence.
How much maintenance will my new pool require?
We want you relaxing in the water, not working beside it. We integrate high efficiency filtration and smart automated systems that make maintenance simpler and less time consuming. Realistically, a little time each week should have your pool looking sparkling!