Pool construction has its own vocabulary, and it can make planning a build feel intimidating. This pool terminology glossary and knowledge base defines the terms Georgia homeowners run into most — from structural terms like shotcrete and coping to design features like tanning ledges and negative edges. Bookmark it and refer back as you plan and talk with builders.
Structure & Construction Terms
Shotcrete
Wet, pre-mixed concrete pumped through a hose and sprayed at high pressure onto a steel frame to form the pool shell. It produces a dense, monolithic, structurally strong shell and is the method behind virtually every high-end custom pool. See how it compares to gunite.
Gunite
A closely related pneumatic concrete process where a dry mix is combined with water at the spray nozzle. In skilled hands, gunite and shotcrete produce structurally equivalent shells; the terms are often used interchangeably in the industry.
Rebar
Steel reinforcing bar tied into a grid cage before the shell is sprayed. Proper rebar sizing and spacing (commonly #3 or #4 bar on 12-inch centers) is what gives a concrete pool its long-term structural strength.
Coping
The capped edge that finishes the top rim of the pool where the shell meets the deck. It provides a safe, comfortable edge and directs splash water away. Travertine and porcelain pavers are popular in Atlanta for staying cool underfoot.
Waterline tile
The band of tile installed at the water's surface line. It protects the finish from the buildup that forms at the waterline and adds a decorative accent.
Circulation & Equipment Terms
Skimmer
The intake at the waterline that pulls surface water — and floating debris and oils — into the filtration system before it sinks.
Main drain
The intake at the bottom of the pool that works with the skimmers to circulate water. Modern drains must be VGB-compliant with anti-entrapment covers.
Weir
Most often the hinged flap inside a skimmer that regulates surface flow into the basket. The term also describes the precise spillover lip on spas and vanishing-edge pools.
Variable-speed pump
An energy-efficient circulation pump that runs at adjustable speeds. It is one of the biggest levers for lowering a pool's operating cost. Learn about automation and efficient equipment.
Salt chlorine generator
Equipment that converts dissolved salt into chlorine, so a saltwater pool sanitizes itself without manual chlorine dosing. Read our saltwater vs. chlorine breakdown.
Finish Terms
Plaster
The traditional cement-based interior finish. Affordable and smooth, but the shortest-lived option, typically needing refinishing sooner than aggregate finishes.
Quartz finish
Plaster blended with quartz aggregate for better durability, color retention, and stain resistance — a popular mid-tier upgrade.
Pebble finish
A finish embedding small natural pebbles for the most durable, longest-lasting surface and the deepest water color. Why pebble is the gold standard.
Design Feature Terms
Tanning ledge (Baja shelf / sun shelf)
A shallow flat area, usually 6–12 inches deep, for lounging in the water, placing chairs, or safe play for small children. Explore tanning ledge design ideas.
Negative edge (infinity / vanishing edge)
A wall where water flows over the top into a hidden catch basin, creating the illusion of water meeting the horizon — a premium feature for sloped lots and views. See our infinity pool FAQ.
Spillway
The edge where water flows from a raised spa or feature into the pool, often finished in glass or stone mosaic tile as a focal point.
Beach entry (zero entry)
A gradually sloping entry that mimics walking into the ocean, with no steps — elegant, accessible, and great for children and lounging.
Safety Terms
VGB compliance
Adherence to the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act, requiring anti-entrapment drain covers and safe drain design. A non-negotiable standard for reputable builders. Review pool safety essentials.
Barrier / safety fence
Code-required fencing that encloses the pool to prevent unsupervised access, with self-closing, self-latching gates. Required by every Metro Atlanta jurisdiction.
Ready to put these ideas to work in your backyard?
We'll walk you through every term, feature, and option as it applies to your specific project.
