A tough question for any aspiring homeowner. And the answer is not as clear as you may want it to be. There are just so many variables here, so the timeline is vague. But we’ll try to give you a general idea.

The Average Time to Build a Pool

When considering adding an in-ground swimming pool to your home, one of the first questions that pops up is, “How long is it going to take?” The answer, as with many construction projects, isn’t straightforward because it depends on a ton of factors. However, we can talk about a generalized timeline to give you a rough idea of what to expect for a simple pool construction. If we talk about actual numbers, then it takes typically anywhere from 8 to 12 weeks (on average), or even more, if we talk about complicated projects with intricate designs and loads of custom features. From obtaining permits to the final touches of landscaping, each phase of the process plays its own important role. What building a pool might look like?

Design Your Pool Project and Apply for Permits

Any pool project begins with the phase of design and planning. During this stage, you’ll collaborate with designers or architects to bring your dream pool to life on paper. It’s all about letting your imagination run wild, within the bounds of your budget and space, of course. Once the design is finalized, the next step is to apply for the necessary permits. The timeline for this pool building process can vary, generally taking anywhere from 1 to 3 months.

Plan Initial Layout

Planning the initial layout to build an outdoor swimming pool is a crucial step that precedes excavation and construction. This phase typically involves marking out the precise location and dimensions of the pool in your yard, considering the layout of your home, the landscape, and any local zoning or building regulations that may apply. Contractor may physically lay out the shape of your pool (by using flexible wooden forms and\or paint, for example). This step is done before actual digging and you need to pay a lot of attention here, since changing the plan is not that difficult and won’t cost you a lot. But making changes once digging starts may actually cost you quite a lot. Planning an initial layout may take a day, or more, up to one week – it depends on how quick you get satisfied with the plan of your future pool.

Start Excavation

This stage involves heavy machinery, like a track hoe or even a smaller Bobcat for tighter spaces, coming into your yard to dig out the shape of your future pool. Typically, the excavation process is quick, about just 1-2 days for a standard-sized pool. However, it’s good to be prepared for potential delays. Complications such as hitting rock, discovering unexpected utility lines, or dealing with challenging soil conditions can extend this phase up to a week​​. Be ready for this process, as it may be very messy and noisy.   It is recommended that you remove all furniture from the area and anything that could possibly get dirty.

Install the Frame

For in-ground concrete pools, the timeline for this phase, including building the supporting structure and spraying the shotcrete (or gunite, typically ranges from 2 to 3 weeks. This is because everything must be done onsite, and the process is labor-intensive. It may also require coordination with various subcontractors. After the guniteis applied, it must cure for about a month, during which time other construction activities are somewhat limited​​.

Add Plumbing and Pipes

During this phase, pipes are laid out and installed to connect your pool with the filtration system, pump, and any additional water features like waterfalls or jets you’ve planned. The time it usually takes to complete the plumbing and piping phase can vary based on the complexity of your pool design and the specific features you’ve chosen. However, as a general guideline, this part of the process can take anywhere from a few days to a week.

Hook Up the Electrical

Hooking up the electrical systems for your pool involves wiring up all the electrical components that make your pool function smoothly. This includes the pool pump, lighting, heating systems if any, and other pool features that require electricity, such as waterfalls or jets. The time required for electrical installation can vary, but it generally takes a few days to complete.

Finish with Tiling, Coping, and Aesthetics

The final phase of pool construction includes tiling, coping, and other aesthetic finishes. During this phase, the tile crew will prepare for and install waterline tile, coping materials, and any other tile features included in your design. This also includes any masonry work and the installation of decking around the pool. Depending on the complexity of your design and the materials used, this phase can take anywhere from 3 to 10 days on average​​.

Factors Affecting the Pool Construction Timeline

The pool construction process timeline can vary widely based on several factors:

• Design Approval and Permits. The complexity of your pool design and the speed at which permits are approved by local authorities can significantly affect the timeline.
• Type of Pool. Building an inground pool typically takes longer than above-ground options due to excavation and more complex installation processes.
• Weather Conditions. Bad weather can delay many phases of pool construction, especially excavation and curing processes for materials like concrete.
• Landscaping and Features. Additional features such as landscaping, decks, and custom elements like waterfalls or lighting extend the construction timeline.
• Contractor Schedule. The availability of your chosen contractor and their crew can also impact how quickly the project progresses.
• Supply Chain Issues. Delays in material delivery, whether due to supply chain disruptions or specific choices of materials, can push back completion dates.

Understanding these factors can help set realistic expectations for your pool construction project.

Transform Your Backyard into a Paradise with FM Pools and Outdoor Living in Florida

Starting a pool construction project can feel like a big deal, but with FM Pools and Outdoor Living, you’re in capable hands. We’re recognized for our proficiency as a leading pool contractor in Florida. We streamline the pool construction timeline, ensuring every step from design to the final touches is handled with care and professionalism. Opting for FM Pools and Outdoor Living means choosing a contractor strongly dedicated to transforming your backyard into something greater, no matter what exactly you choose – a good old pool or a spa installation. Our team’s expertise, commitment to quality, and personalized approach make us the ideal choice for anyone looking to build a pool or spa in Florida. Trust us to bring your vision to life.