A swimming pool can be a fun project to undertake and add value to your home. The construction process is complex and can take a long time. It requires patience and careful planning. The answer to the question of how long does it take to build a pool depends on a number of factors. These include the type of swimming pool, its complexity, as well as external variables like weather and permit processes. The average time to build a pool ranges from a few months to several weeks.
Table of Contents
Plan and Design Phase: 2 to 4 Weeks
Planning and designing a pool is the first step. This phase is vital as it lays the foundation of the entire project. This stage involves working with a designer or contractor to develop a detailed pool plan. You’ll need to choose the type of pool (e.g. in-ground or above-ground), its size and shape, as well as any additional features, such a lighting, a spa, or waterfalls. Get essential tips and guides to build a swimming pool from experts, by checking out sources like clipchamp.org.
The design phase includes choosing the materials such as concrete or fiberglass and deciding where to place your pool in your yard. This phase may take two to four weeks, depending on the level of customization and the complexity of the pool design.
Permitting and Approval: 2-6 weeks
You must first obtain all the required permits and approvals through your local government, or homeowners association. This ensures your pool is compliant with building codes, zoning regulations, and safety standards.
The length of time required to obtain permits depends on the location and complexity of your project. Permits can be issued in as little as two weeks. In other places, they may take six weeks or longer. It’s not unusual for the permit process to be delayed, so you should factor that into your timeline.
Excavation & Site Preparation : 1-2 weeks
Excavation and site preparation can start after the planning and permit phases. Marking the location of the pool, removing obstacles and digging the pool hole are all part of this process. The excavation process can take up to two weeks depending on your pool’s size and the soil type in your yard.
This phase can be extended if the soil is rocky or difficult to work with. Additional work may need to be done in order for the site and large rocks to be removed or stabilized. If the pool will be installed in an area that is difficult to access or is confined, it may take more time for excavation.
Pool Shell Installation: 1-3 Weeks
Installing the pool shell is the next step after excavation. This phase will take a different amount of time depending on the type and size of the pool.
- Concrete Pools: The longest installation time is for concrete pools (also known as gunite, shotcrete, or shotcrete) because the concrete has to be sprayed on the rebar frame and allowed to cure. The curing can take up to a week and requires additional time to finish with plaster or tiles. This phase can last two to three weeks.
- Fiberglass Pools Fiberglass pools come pre-manufactured in a single unit. The shell can be easily installed in a matter of days once it arrives on your property. Fiberglass pools are popular for their ease of installation, which makes them a great choice for those who want to speed up the construction process. This phase usually takes between one and two weeks.
- Vinyl Liner Pools – Vinyl liner pool installation involves installing a metal frame or polymer frame and then placing a vinyl liner that is custom fitted. Installation of the frame and liner usually takes between one and two weeks.
Plumbing, Filtration, Electrical and other Systems: 1 to 2 Weeks
The next step after installing the pool shell is to install the electrical, plumbing and filtration system. The pool’s plumbing, electrical, and filtration systems must be installed.
This phase’s complexity depends on what features you have chosen for your swimming pool. It may take a week for a basic pool to be completed with the standard electrical and plumbing needs. If you want to add advanced features, such as automated systems, a waterfall, or a spa, then additional time is needed.
Decking and Landscaping : 2-4 weeks
After the pool is finished, the attention will turn to the area around it. Decking such as pavers, concrete or natural stone can enhance the aesthetics of the pool and provide a space to relax and entertain.
The landscaping around your pool can add privacy and beauty to your backyard. This phase can take a long time depending on your design and materials. Simple decking takes about a week to install, whereas more complex designs that include extensive landscaping may take four weeks.
Final Inspection and Filling of the Pool: One Week
A final inspection will be required before you can enjoy your new pool. This is to ensure that the work has been completed according to local safety and building codes. After the inspection, you can fill the pool with water and make any adjustments. This last phase usually takes about a month.
Total Construction Time 8-16 Weeks
The time required to build a pool depends on many factors. You can expect a project that is relatively simple and has no major delays to take two to three month. The timeline can be extended by four months or even more if the project is more complex, there are site conditions that are difficult, or if permits take longer to obtain.
A swimming pool requires patience and careful planning. Understanding the different phases of construction, and how long each takes, can help you to manage your expectations and ensure that the process runs smoothly. It may take a few months to finish, but the result will be worth it. A beautiful, custom-built pool.
This article was written by an expert at Pool Stop Custom Pools. Pool Stop has built custom swimming pools for the DFW region for more than 20 years. Living Magazine’s readers have consistently voted us “Best Pool Construction dallas” for Rockwall. We strive to offer the best construction and design technology for the Rockwall community. Our team is made up of some of the most highly educated and experienced professionals in the business. Pool Stop provides a wide range of services, including: New Pool Design & Pool Construction; Retail Pool Store; Pool Supplies; Water Testing and Pool Cleaner Repair. Visit us today to receive a FREE Water Analysis.