The Heritage I-Beam Pool™ Construction Process
Building Charleston’s Strongest Pool Structure
At Heritage Pools, we’ve spent 20+ years perfecting the Heritage I-Beam Pool™ construction process for Charleston’s unique coastal challenges. As the sole factory-authorized company in the Charleston region using this patented technology, we deliver pools engineered to withstand unpredictable soil, ground tremors and groundwater.
Nine phases, one team
Your Complete Pool Construction Journey
From the first conversation to the day we hand you the keys to your pool, here is every step of a Heritage I-Beam Pool™ build. Tap a phase to jump to it.
Phase 01
Planning & Design
Every Heritage I-Beam Pool™ starts with your vision and a careful look at your property. Five steps happen before anything is ordered.
Why this matters
Charleston’s unpredictable soil and groundwater call for careful analysis. Unlike regions with stable, dry ground, our area sees frequent ground movement. The I-Beam system is designed for these conditions.
Initial Consultation & Site Evaluation. Our process begins with understanding your vision. During your consultation we’ll discuss:
- How you plan to use your pool (family time, laps, entertaining)
- Design preferences (geometric, freeform, custom shapes)
- Special features (waterfalls, tanning ledges, spas, outdoor kitchens)
- Budget considerations and financing options
- Why the I-Beam system is ideal for your property
Comprehensive Site Analysis. Because the Heritage I-Beam Pool™ is engineered for challenging coastal conditions, we evaluate your property thoroughly:
- Groundwater level evaluation
- Access points for heavy equipment
- Existing utilities and easements
- Property setbacks (an as-built survey will be required)
- Elevation, drainage and grading analysis
- Municipal code compliance requirements
Custom Design Development. Every Heritage I-Beam Pool™ is custom-designed for your property. Your scaled drawings show:
- Pool dimensions, depths and shape
- Spa integration (if desired)
- Decking layouts and materials
- Equipment placement
- Special features and water effects
- I-Beam brace placement and structural details
- Integration with your existing landscape
We’ll revise the design until you’re 100% satisfied. This is your pool, and we want it perfect.
Structural Engineering (When Required). For complex designs or challenging site conditions, we may recommend structural engineering plans to ensure optimal performance of the I-Beam brace system.
Permitting & HOA Approval. We handle all standard building permit applications and provide the information needed for HOA approval.
Phase 02
Pre-Construction Preparation
Paperwork, people and parts, lined up before the first shovel hits the ground.
Financing Finalization
We partner with specialized pool financing companies offering:
- 5 to 30-year loan terms
- Quick approval (typically within 24 hours)
- Potentially tax-deductible interest
- No prepayment penalties
Underground Utility Marking
PUPS (Palmetto Utility Protection Service) marks all underground utility lines so excavation is safe. Note: this service does not locate owner-placed lines.
Pre-Construction Meeting
You meet with your superintendent and designer to review:
- Final pool layout and I-Beam brace system
- Construction expectations and phases
- Material selections
- Your responsibilities as the homeowner
- Communication channels
Material Procurement
We order every specialized component for your Heritage I-Beam Pool™:
- Commercial-grade resin pool panels (non-corrosive, non-conductive)
- Patented I-Beam braces
- Commercial-grade pool membrane
- Schedule 40 PVC plumbing
- All necessary structural materials
Phase 03
Excavation & Foundation Work
Equipment Access & Excavation
Using heavy excavation equipment, we dig your pool to precise specifications. Our team plans around:
- The size of equipment that can access your yard
- Protection of existing structures and landscaping
- Proper disposal of excavated material
- Weather conditions and soil moisture
- Groundwater management
De-Watering System Installation
If groundwater is present, we install a de-watering pit to control water levels during construction, a critical step in coastal building that keeps the work area stable.
Important note
Pool construction involves heavy machinery and will leave ruts in your yard. We perform rough machine grading, but final landscaping restoration is your or your landscaper’s responsibility. We are happy to refer landscapers on request.
What sits under a Heritage I-Beam Pool™
Poured structural concrete floor
A solid, permanent base that resists groundwater pressure and ties into the I-Beam braces.
Graded, compacted gravel bed
Stabilizes the ground and drains water away.
Stabilization fabric
Keeps the stone bed clean from surrounding soils.
Lowcountry soil
Sandy, wet and unpredictable, which is why the layers above matter.
This multi-layer approach gives superior stability in unpredictable Lowcountry soils. Unlike vinyl liner pools with sand bottoms, every Heritage I-Beam Pool sits on a full structural concrete floor.
Phase 04 · The heart of the system
The I-Beam Brace System
This is where the Heritage I-Beam Pool™ truly sets itself apart. We install the patented I-Beam brace system around the entire perimeter of your pool.
10,000+
pounds of live load each brace transfers from your walls and deck to the concrete footing
How it works
01
Concrete-filled I-Beam braces are set at precise intervals.
02
Each brace carries the load of your pool walls and decking down to the footing.
03
Lateral pressure on the walls is eliminated, so they cannot bow.
04
Weight is spread across the whole support system, just like a bridge.
“
No weight presses on the pool walls directly. The design has been dubbed the “strongest” brace by the Association of Pool & Spa Professionals.
Structural Resin Panels
Commercial-grade, structural-design resin pool panels:
- Non-corrosive and non-conductive
- Engineered for the I-Beam system
- Superior strength and durability
- Resistant to Charleston’s conditions
Commercial-Grade Pool Membrane
Installed as an additional waterproofing layer, giving redundant protection and long-term durability.
05
Phase 05
Plumbing & Structural Integration
Where the pool’s plumbing is locked into structural concrete and every penetration is tested.
Concrete Bonding Beam & Embedded Plumbing
A concrete bonding beam runs around the pool perimeter with:
- Rigid Schedule 40 PVC embedded in the concrete
- Protection from boring insects and termites
- Integration with the I-Beam brace system
- Permanent, secure plumbing
Short Plumb Installation
Every pipe, drain, return, light niche and feature that passes through the pool walls is installed and tested:
- Main drain connections
- Return line positions
- Skimmer integration
- Light niches
- Feature plumbing (waterfalls, deck jets, spa jets)
Pool Bonding Inspection
We bond all exposed metallic items per electrical code. A municipal inspector verifies this critical safety feature before we move on.
The important difference
Unlike other pool systems, our plumbing is embedded in structural concrete for superior protection and permanence.
Phase 06
Deck Structure & Backfilling
Integrated Deck Support System
The Heritage I-Beam Pool™ takes a different approach to supporting your deck:
- Concrete decking with a rebar grid is fully supported by the I-Beam braces
- This locks in the top of the wall for extra structural integrity
- No deck weight is transferred to the pool walls
- The result is a monolithic structure that works as one system
Professional Backfilling
- Proper material selection and compaction
- Integration with drainage systems
- Protection of embedded plumbing
- Rough grading ready for final decking
Phase 07
Finishing & Systems Installation
Five steps turn a structure into a working pool.
01
Long Plumbing & Electrical
We trench and run all plumbing and specialty lines from the pool to the equipment pad.
02
Equipment Installation
Certified service technicians install and plumb all filtration equipment.
03
Pre-Deck Bonding Inspection
Metal components in the deck area are bonded and inspected before decking.
04
Coping Installation
Your coping frames the pool. Auto-cover channels and brackets go in now too.
05
Final Decking
Pavers, travertine or stamped concrete, sloped for drainage and tied into the I-Beam support system.
Equipment we install
Variable-speed pumps
High-efficiency filters
Heaters (gas or heat pump)
Automation systems
Sanitization systems
Cleaning systems
Phase 08
Liner Installation & Interior Finish
Precision Liner Installation
- Custom-measured for your exact pool dimensions
- Professional installation for a proper fit
- Wide variety of patterns and colors
- Smooth, comfortable surface
The vinyl liner in a Heritage I-Beam Pool™ is supported by the strongest structural system available, giving you peace of mind for generations.
Pool Fill & Initial Inspection
Once the liner is in, we begin filling your pool and run thorough inspections of every system.
Phase 09
Safety, Start-Up & Pool School
Fencing & Safety Features
Per South Carolina code, outdoor pools must be surrounded by a barrier at least 48 inches high unless the pool has an auto cover. Barrier requirements are the homeowner’s responsibility and include, but are not limited to:
- Self-latching gates
- UL2017 listed door alarms where required
- Compliance with all local safety codes
Water Chemistry & System Start-Up
Your service technician balances the water and tests every system:
- Balance initial water chemistry
- Verify pump operation
- Check filter function
- Test heater (if installed)
- Program automation
- Verify all returns and features
Complimentary
Pool School
Your start-up technician walks you through:
- Routine maintenance
- Equipment operation and troubleshooting
- Water chemistry basics
- Vinyl liner care
- Filter cleaning and maintenance
- Heater and automation use
- Understanding your I-Beam structure
- When to call for service
Pro tip: record the session on video and take notes. We cover a lot, and a reference is invaluable.
Municipal Final Inspection
- Proper fence, gate and alarm installation
- Code compliance for all safety features
- Electrical system safety
Handover
You receive all equipment manuals, warranty information, structural documentation for your I-Beam system and access to our support team. Our office is always available for questions and technical support.
Your schedule
What Shapes Your Build Schedule
Every property is different, so we set your schedule with you once your design and permits are in place. We build buffer time for weather into every plan so your project keeps moving. These are the factors that affect it most:
01
Weather
Rain causes the most delays. A day of rain can mean two or more days of drying time depending on the soil.
02
Inspections
Municipal inspection scheduling sets the pace between phases.
03
Materials
Availability of specialized components.
04
Design changes
Change orders or design modifications during the build.
05
Site conditions
Anything unforeseen we uncover once we start digging.
06
Groundwater
Higher water levels mean more de-watering work.
Clear from day one
What’s Included in Your Contract
Standard inclusions
- Custom pool design for your property
- All standard building permits
- Excavation and de-watering system (if needed)
- Stabilization fabric and gravel bed foundation
- Poured structural concrete floor
- Patented I-Beam brace system
- Commercial-grade resin pool panels
- Commercial-grade pool membrane
- All pool plumbing in embedded Schedule 40 PVC
- Concrete bonding system
- Integrated deck support structure
- All pool equipment
- Coping (as selected)
- Decking (type and amount per contract)
- Custom-measured vinyl liner
- Equipment installation
- Professional start-up service
- Pool School training
- $1,000 electrical allowance
Not included (but available)
- Door alarms (required by code)
- Pool fill water above electrical allowance
- Fencing, railings and gates
- Gas line installation
- Structural engineering plans (when required)
- Landscaping and irrigation
- Final yard grading and grass
- Drainage systems beyond the pool
- Water lines for auto-fill system
Why I-Beam
The Heritage I-Beam Pool™ Advantage
Engineered for Charleston’s Challenges
Standard pool construction may work in stable soil. The Heritage I-Beam Pool™ is designed for:
- Unpredictable coastal soils
- Groundwater fluctuations
- Ground tremors and seismic activity
- High water tables
- Challenging drainage
The Strongest Brace System Available
- Transfers over 10,000 pounds per brace from walls to footing
- Eliminates the lateral pressure that causes wall bowing
- Distributes weight like bridge construction
- Recognized as the “strongest” by the Association of Pool & Spa Professionals
Superior Structural Integrity
Multiple layers of protection work together:
- Stabilization fabric prevents soil migration
- Gravel bed adds drainage and stability
- Concrete floor resists groundwater pressure
- Commercial-grade membrane adds waterproofing
- Resin panels resist corrosion and conduct no electricity
- I-Beam braces give unmatched lateral support
- Integrated deck support creates a monolithic structure
Highly customizable luxury
Any shape or size, integrated spas and tanning ledges, custom water features, liner patterns and colors, multiple decking options and full automation.
Exclusive to Heritage Pools
We are the only factory-authorized company in the Charleston region using this patented technology. You get:
- 20+ years of local installation experience
- Factory training and certification
- Proven performance in Lowcountry conditions
- A pool built to last generations
Peace of Mind for Generations
Investing in a Heritage I-Beam Pool™ means:
- Proven structural performance in challenging conditions
- Resistance to the common problems that plague other systems
- Long-term durability that protects your investment
- Confidence that comes from region-specific engineering
Transparent pricing
Think of it as building a coastal home versus an inland home. The engineering requirements are simply different.
We provide detailed written proposals listing every included feature and material, including the specialized I-Beam brace components. Any change during construction is handled through a written change order, never a verbal agreement.
Heritage I-Beam Pools™ are a premium investment because of the engineered structural system. That upfront investment protects you from the costly repairs and structural failures that can happen with standard pool systems in our coastal environment.
Beware of “too good to be true” pricing
A remarkably low bid may mean:
- Standard construction not engineered for Charleston
- Lower quality materials
- No proper foundation work
- No structural engineering or I-Beam system
- Charges added later through change orders
A Heritage I-Beam Pool™ costs more to build at the start because it is built correctly for our region.
Who builds it matters
The Heritage Pools Advantage
01
20+ Years of Lowcountry Experience
We’ve built hundreds of pools in Charleston’s challenging conditions and seen first-hand the failures standard construction can suffer in our soil. That’s why we exclusively use the I-Beam system.
02
Factory-Authorized & Certified
The sole factory-authorized company in the Charleston region using patented I-Beam technology. Our crews are trained to install it exactly as engineered.
03
Award-Winning
Team Member Awards · Service Team and Construction Team Awards · Project Photography Awards · Ethic Awards
04
Comprehensive Warranties
Warranties on both the structural components and our workmanship, backed by more than two decades of proven performance.
05
Full-Service Capabilities
From design through construction, we maintain, service and renovate your pool for decades to come.
06
Licensed & Insured
We hold all required South Carolina licenses and carry comprehensive insurance for your protection.
I-Beam FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Straight answers about how the Heritage I-Beam Pool™ is built, maintained and priced. Still have a question? Ask us directly.
What makes the I-Beam system different from other pool structures?
The I-Beam brace system transfers the weight and pressure of your pool walls and deck directly to the concrete footing, eliminating lateral pressure on the walls. This prevents the bowing and structural issues common with other pool types in unstable soil.
Why is the I-Beam Pool™ only available in Charleston?
We developed this system specifically for Charleston’s unique coastal challenges. While it could be used anywhere, it is particularly valuable in areas with unpredictable soil, groundwater issues and seismic activity.
How long does construction take?
Every property is different, so we set your schedule with you once your design and permits are in place. Weather, inspections and site conditions affect it most, and we build buffer time into every plan.
Can I customize the shape and features?
Absolutely. The I-Beam system works with any pool shape or size. You can include spas, tanning ledges, custom water features and more.
What kind of liner options are available?
We offer a wide variety of vinyl liner patterns and colors. The liner can be replaced in the future while the structural I-Beam system keeps providing support for generations.
How does the I-Beam Pool™ handle Charleston’s “thousand-year flood” type events?
The system is engineered for extreme conditions. The structural concrete floor, de-watering system, proper drainage and I-Beam bracing work together to handle water pressure and ground movement.
Will the deck crack or settle?
The integrated deck support system means your deck is carried by the I-Beam braces, not the pool walls. This creates a stable, monolithic structure that resists settling and cracking.
How do I maintain an I-Beam Pool™?
Maintenance is similar to any vinyl liner pool: regular skimming, filter cleaning, water chemistry monitoring and occasional liner replacement. The structural system requires no maintenance.
What happens if I need to replace the liner years later?
Liner replacement is straightforward and does not affect the structural system. The I-Beam braces and panels provide a stable framework for the new liner.
Do you install I-Beam Pools year-round?
Yes. Being in the South, we see weather-related delays in any season, but we build buffer periods into our plans so your project keeps moving forward.
Can I make changes after signing the contract?
Yes, through written change orders. We never make verbal change agreements.
Will you damage my driveway or landscaping?
Heavy equipment access is necessary and can cause damage. We minimize the impact but cannot guarantee there will be no damage from equipment movement.
Who handles final landscaping?
Your landscaper completes final grading, topsoil, grass and landscape restoration after pool construction.
What’s included in my electrical allowance?
It is difficult to set an allowance that covers every job, so we include a $1,000 allowance toward your electrical installation.
Ready to start your pool journey?
Schedule Your Free Consultation
Contact Heritage Pools today to begin planning your Heritage I-Beam Pool™.
Heritage Pools, LLC
5728 Dorchester Road, North Charleston, SC 29418
What to Prepare for Your Consultation
- Property survey or plat (if available)
- Photos of your backyard
- Any known soil or drainage issues
- Ideas or inspiration images
- Budget range
- Questions about Charleston’s unique challenges
Serving the Charleston Lowcountry
We proudly serve homeowners throughout the Lowcountry who want the strongest, most durable pool structure available.
The tans will fade, but the memories will last a lifetime.
Let Heritage Pools create your backyard paradise with patented I-Beam technology, region-specific engineering and the craftsmanship that has made us Charleston’s premier pool builder for 20+ years. When your pool needs to stand up to Charleston’s unique challenges, accept nothing less than the Heritage I-Beam Pool™.