Epic Watershapes

What is the Timeline for Building a Pool

When the idea of having a personal pool hits your mind, the first question that often strikes is, “How long does it take to build a pool?” Well, put short, the average timeline to build a pool is a month or two (sometimes even longer), depending on the project’s complexity.

Now, let us discover a clear, phase-by-phase timeline for building a pool. Here, you will also find out the factors that affect this timeline, important checklists, and answers to your most common questions. With this information, you can create an informed plan and set realistic expectations.

At Epic Watershapes, we understand that once you decide to build a pool, it can be hard to wait to see a fully finished pool in your backyard. So, we strive to make it as short as possible, but without compromising on anything, from start to finish. 

Now, keep reading to learn how many days it takes to build a pool.

Key Factors That Affect Pool Building Timeline

Pool Building

While the factors may vary depending on your individual circumstances and project complexity, the most common things that decide the timeline include:

  • Type of pool: In-ground pools take longer than above-ground pools. Also, concrete or gunite pools take the longest because of custom shapes and complexity, while fiberglass or vinyl liner pools take less.
  • Size and features: You may want additional features added to your pool, such as lighting, a spa, a waterfall, and automation systems alike. The more features there are, the longer the timeline will be.
  • Weather delays: Florida’s rainy season or extreme weather conditions may cause delays.
  • Permit and HOA approvals: The entire process to obtain permit and HOA approval from local municipalities may take 1-4 weeks. Working with a local builder who understands the process can help speed up the timeline.
  • Contractor’s availability: Demand for pool contractors spikes in peak seasons like spring and summer. So, it is best to plan as early as possible or during the off-season.

Now, let us come to the notion—how much time it takes to build a pool—phase by phase.

Pool Pre-Construction Phase (2–6 Weeks)

The pre-construction phase involves:

  • Design and consultation: Site visit by the pool builder, design discussion, 3D rendering, and finalizing the design.
  • Permitting and HOA approvals: Submit plans and design to your county’s local building department, obtaining permits and other necessary approvals. Submitting complete and accurate documents in a timely manner can avoid delays.
  • Financing: If you need funds for your pool project, explore our pool financial options in South Florida.

Construction Phase (6–10 Weeks)

Construction Phase

This is the main and most important phase in the entire process. Also, it is the longest phase involving the major steps as discussed below:

  • Excavation: Marking the pool layout and digging the shell. All utility line checks and relocations are carried out during excavation.
  • Framework and plumbing: The framework is installed for the shape and strength of the pool. This also involves plumbing installation, such as running pipes for water flow and filtration.
  • Electrical work: Installing lights, pump, pump driver, automation systems, and other pool equipment that run on electricity.
  • Gunite/concrete application: Preparing the pool shell, followed by curing that takes 7-28 days, depending on the material used and weather conditions.
  • Tile and decking: The time to install a pool deck and aesthetic finishes like stonework and tiles also affects the overall timeline of pool construction.

Once done, the pool is inspected (by the pool builder and county inspection) for exterior and interior finishing, plumbing, and electric equipment before moving on to the next step.

Tips to Speed Up the Pool Construction Process

  • Do little cleaning yourself so that your pool builder can spend more time planning and constructing.
  • Do not overdo with customization. Pool builders often come with a large portfolio of pre-designed options, including impressive designs and styles. So, choose from them for yourself.
  • Start in the off-season, preferably late fall or winter, to avoid delays due to contractors’ unavailability during peak seasons.
  • Choose highly experienced and professional local pool builders who understand how the process works. These professionals often understand the permit and HOA approval processes from inside and out, thus helping shorten the pool construction timeline.
  • If you seriously want to save time, then go for fiberglass or vinyl liner pools, which are faster to install than concrete and genuite pools. 
  • Prepare your paperwork and obtain necessary approvals as early as possible. This typically includes the site plan, inspection, design approval from the HOA, financing approval, etc.
  • Avoid mid-project changes because this can cause confusion, frustration, and unnecessary delays.
  • Maintain clear communication with your pool contractor. There must be just one or two people in the household for communication. This is important to avoid confusion. Also, be responsive and have clarity in communication.

In the end, do everything you believe you can handle without causing trouble for the pool construction team. Be prepared, have a clear plan, clear all your doubts upfront, and stay in communication to expedite the pool building timeline.

Be Ready to Make a Splash!

Let Epic Watershapes build your dream pool in Florida without delays.

We have been building swimming pools in Florida for many years. So, we understand what it takes to build a pool faster without compromising the quality, functionality, safety, and beauty of your pool. So, why wait any longer? Contact us for a free consultation and discuss your requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

It typically takes a month or two to build an in-ground swimming pool. Some projects that involve a high customization level and complexities may take even longer. In addition, other factors like the contractor’s availability, weather conditions, and soil conditions also affect the timeline of an inground swimming pool.

Inground pools take much longer to build than above-ground pools. This is because it is typically harder to work beneath the ground than to install pools above the ground.

Any time in the off-season is the best time to build a pool. This is because pool contractors are readily available during the off-season, and you can get your personal pool ready before the summer season arrives.