There is historical evidence of pools being created as early as 2600 B.C.E. The types of pools we use today weren’t popularized until 1837. It was then that six indoor swimming pools were built in London, England.
Most families have thought about getting their own in-ground pool at some point. Besides cost, one of the biggest questions people have is how long does it take to build a pool?
Continue reading to find out how long it takes to build a pool. Learn what factors can increase build time, and how to pick the right contractor for your project.
How Long Does It Take to Build a Pool?
When you’re waiting on your pool to be built, it can seem like the process is taking forever. True, it is an extensive process that requires many steps. But it doesn’t take forever.
On average, a pool takes six to ten weeks to build from start to finish. In some cases, your project may be completed in as short as a month. In other instances, pools may take as long as fourteen weeks.
The time it takes to build a pool depends on multiple factors. These include:
- ease of access to the area where you want the pool constructed
- finished size
- type of pool being installed
- length of the permitting process
- length of the design process
- amount of custom features requested
Other factors may apply to some projects. Each family is unique, and the pool process can reflect this.
Below we’ll break down the time frame for how long does it take to build a pool. Knowing how long each step of the process takes can help you understand why building a pool takes so long.
Getting Permission for the Pool
Before anything else, your construction company will need permission for the pool. This can take between one and eight weeks. The broad time frame is because of the permitting process.
First, they’ll create a design and get it approved by you. This part of the process can take longer if you need alterations to the original design.
Second, permits will need to be filed and approved by your municipality. Your contractor will include the design in the paperwork. How long this part takes is out of the hands of your contractor.
Digging Your Pool Out
Excavating the hole your new pool will sit in is the next part. Excavation is usually pretty quick and takes around a week. It may take slightly longer if your pool’s desired location is difficult to access.
The “Bones” of Your Pool
Before the pool itself is installed, other things need to be put into place. This includes the steel, plumbing, and electrical components that allow your pool to run.
Installing the “bones” of your pool is usually another quick part of the process. On average, it takes one to two weeks. If the pool is very large or complex, it can take extra time.
Pool Installation
This part of the process can vary wildly in time based on what type of pool you’re having installed. Vinyl and fiberglass pools will be much quicker than concrete ones.
Vinyl
Having a vinyl pool installed will take one to two weeks, in general. Vinyl pools are available in a few different forms. There are steel walls, concrete walls, and polymer walls.
Fiberglass
Installing a fiberglass pool varies between one and seven days. These are also called drop-in pools.
Fiberglass pools take the least amount of time because they come pre-built. Your contractor will only need to drop them into the excavated hole. Sometimes there will be a few alterations necessary.
Concrete
Concrete pools take the longest to install because they’re built completely on-site. The process takes between two and three weeks.
For concrete pools, a crew must come in and apply the gunite and the plaster. The gunite will need time to cure once it’s been applied. Curing time can take up to a week in some cases.
The Finishing Touches
At this point, your pool is ready to be filled. All that’s left are the finishing touches, which will make the pool uniquely yours.
Sometimes contractors can fill the pool and allow you to begin using it while they finish. Sometimes you may have to wait until these things are complete to use your pool. It will depend on which finishing touches you requested.
Finishing touches include building your decking and doing your pool landscaping, if applicable. It also consists of any extra features you asked for during the designing process.
Extra features might include waterfalls or custom lighting. It could consist of a screen over your pool or a fence around it. There are many features you could choose from.
Choosing the Right Pool Contractor
To make sure the process goes as smoothly and quickly as possible, you need the right pool contractor. The most important thing you want to look for is someone who listens to what you want. They should ask questions and work with you to make your dream pool come to life.
You’ll also want to consider the price. Sometimes it’s worth it to pay a little extra for someone with more experience. You don’t want to spend thousands of dollars more on a project, however.
Finally, make sure your pool contractor is licensed or certified and knows what they’re talking about. The right pool contractor can help you understand what is or isn’t possible. They should also be well-versed in local zoning and construction laws.
Are You Looking to Build a Custom Pool?
You now have your answer to “how long does it take to build a pool?” Time can vary wildly depending on several different factors.
Are you looking to have a custom pool built or want more information on the topic? Contact us today. One of our trained associates would be more than happy to answer all your questions.
