October 16, 2025
The Truth About Hitting Rock During Pool Excavation in Middle Tennessee
If you’ve lived in Middle Tennessee for long, you know there’s a lot of rock under our feet. From limestone to shale, it’s part of the charm (and challenge) of building anything here, especially an inground pool.
At Sterling Pools, we believe transparency is key. That’s why we discuss the possibility of hitting rock early in the process and help homeowners understand what that means for their timeline and budget.
Why Rock Happens
Middle Tennessee sits on a foundation of natural limestone and other dense rock layers. Depending on your location, elevation, and soil conditions, it’s not uncommon to encounter rock during excavation — especially in deeper sections of the pool.
While it can be a challenge, it’s also a sign of our area’s strong foundation. Knowing how to handle it makes all the difference.
What Happens If We Hit Rock
We always do what we can to avoid using a rock hammer, but sometimes, rock just happens.
Here’s what sets Sterling Pools apart:
- Upfront Transparency
Before excavation begins, we review the possibility of rock with every homeowner so there is an understanding of what could happen. - Clear Communication
If we encounter rock that needs special equipment, we’ll stop, show you exactly what we’ve found, and discuss your options before moving forward. - Smart Solutions
Depending on the type and amount of rock, we may adjust your pool’s depth or layout to save time and money, without sacrificing your vision.
Why It Matters
Hitting rock doesn’t mean your dream pool is out of reach, it just means a little more planning and teamwork is needed. By addressing challenges head-on and keeping communication open, we help you make confident, informed decisions throughout your project.
At Sterling Pools, we see rock as just one more step toward building something beautiful and lasting in your backyard.
Our Promise
No matter what’s beneath the surface, our goal is to bring your backyard vision to life with honesty, expertise, and exceptional craftsmanship. From your first consultation to your first cannonball, we’ve got you covered.
