Pool installations exploded during the pandemic and show no signs of slowing. People continue to look for new ways to gather outdoors, socialize with friends and loved ones, and for the kids to play. And swimming pools are great for leisure and recreation alike.
If you are considering installation, you may be wondering, “How long does a pool take to build?” This depends on many different factors, including where you live, the layout of your yard, the time of year, and what type of pool and added features you wish to install.
The good news is that, once you determine these variables, you can better assess how long it will be before you are enjoying your new swimming pool. Keep reading to find out more.
How Long Does a Pool Take To Build?
There are several steps in the pool installation process. Here are the major ones, the approximate amount of time they take, and additional variables to consider.
Consultation and Planning
Before construction begins, you will meet with the builder to lay out an installation plan. This involves discussing all modifications made to the prospective pool area. It includes specific details about the pool itself, as well as features in the pool area.
You will discuss materials, go over permitting, formulate a final layout, and schedule installation. At this point, you will probably sign a contract and (possibly) make a downpayment to the installation company.
Permitting
Some municipalities and even some counties require permitting for any major structural changes to the property. Others demand permits for substantial electrical alterations. This process can take several weeks, and you must complete it before breaking ground on the project.
If you have a homeowner’s association (HOA), you would need to submit a proposal to them as well. Most HOAs have pretty straightforward guidelines on permitting processes.
Excavation
In total, you can expect the installation process to last between four and 10 weeks. That will depend on several variables, including weather.
The first installation aspect to look at when asking “How long does a pool take to build?” is excavation. This is the process of shaping the ground where the pool will go. It involves removing and relocating large amounts of dirt and ensuring the surrounding area is level and stable.
Excavation can take up to a week. But, in most cases, you can expect the process to last between one and four days.
One thing that can impact excavation is the layout of your yard. It is a tedious endeavor that is important to the stability of your pool, so getting it right may take some time. Also, how well heavy equipment can access the area is another factor that can impact the duration of the excavation stage.
The big advantage to pool installation during the winter is that demand is low, but the flip side is that the weather is less conducive to outdoor work. Rain or snow may prohibit working on the project, and so can icy ground, which can make excavation more difficult. It is something to keep in mind as you enter the installation process.
Establishing the Foundation
Next, installers will put in the foundation (usually made of steel). This involves running the necessary electrical and plumbing components. This phase will take between four or five days and several weeks.
While there are different types of in-ground swimming pools available today, including fiberglass and vinyl, concrete remains the most popular foundation. That is because it is the strongest, most durable, and offers the most design flexibility.
Concrete is a mix of cement, sand, and water. If you have heard the terms “shotcrete” or “gunite” swimming pool, this is the process by which concrete is mixed and then sprayed onto a vertical surface using a high-pressure hose.
Gunite does have to cure, and this can take between one and several weeks. The good news is that, during this time, technicians can continue working on other aspects of the project.
Finishing Touches
After the foundation sets, technicians can install pool tiling and build decking. These vary in complexity and the time it takes to install them.
The final stage of installation involves adding any landscaping or water features to the pool area. Some people choose to install stonework for grills or fireplaces in the pool area. Adding arbors, gazebos, or decks to the outdoor living space is another option.
If you are including such alterations, this could add several days or more to the installation process. For instance, technicians may need to run natural gas lines for grills or plumbing for water features.
Remember though that many of these projects can be accomplished while the gunite is curing, so they may not add any time at all. And, some of these may have already been completed during the foundation-building stage.
Other Factors That Can Impact Installation Time
One major factor to think about when determining pool installation is the time of year. Spring and early summer are the most popular times for putting in a pool. But that means contractors’ schedules fill up fast.
If you are planning to put a pool in during these times of the year, the best thing you can do is initiate contact early so you get on the schedule.
Conversely, during fall and winter, demand will slow. That does not mean your contractor will not be busy, but there is usually less lead time.
Your personal schedule could impact planning as well. If you work from home or have major social engagements coming up at your home, be sure to discuss these with your contractor. The more planning you can do together, the smoother and faster the installation process will go from start to finish.
Find a Pool Building Service Near You
Now that you have some pool building tips and an answer to the question “How long does a pool take to build?” you can plan for your project. Don’t wait until spring to get the ball rolling. Reach out to contractors today so that you can have your swimming pool installed as soon as possible.
We hope you found this pool-building guide helpful. Sahara Custom Pools designs and builds every pool exactly to each client’s specifications, which allows us to tailor any aspect of the pool to your unique tastes and budget. Reach out to us today to learn more about our services, schedule a free consultation, or get more pool-building advice.
