In-ground pools are often far and away the best value for homeowners. These pools are built to last, can be customized to suit specific design preferences, and add value to a property as soon as they are completed. The problem for many people is that there is the perception that an in-ground pool build will take too long. Many homeowners buy above-ground pools instead because they are not aware of the timeline that is necessary to complete an in-ground pool.
A skilled and experienced in-ground pool company can help you to understand the time commitment associated with this kind of project so that you can rest easy knowing exactly how long the job will take. Speaking with a skilled team about the kind of work that needs to be done to prep and build can help you to know whether or not you want to commit to having an in-ground pool on your property. Let’s talk some more about the timeline that you can expect for the average in-ground pool building project.
How Long Does it Take to Build an In-Ground Pool?
The more complex the design of your pool, the longer the project will take. This means that large swimming pools, pools with included patio spaces, spas, or outdoor kitchens, and pools that include unique materials or specific custom upgrades will take longer to build than a basic pool.
The baseline that you should expect for each part of the project is as follows:
1. Design Process and Permits
This is the first step that you have to take in the process of building any kind of pool, even if the pool you are going to add to your property is very basic. This process can take anywhere from two weeks to eight weeks. During this step, blueprints are made, approvals from the city or county or an HOA are handled, and local building departments sign off on the job that will be done. The delays that might be experienced during this period of the build are usually related to these organizations and their own timelines that can impact your pool build.
2. Excavation and Site Prep
This step is when heavy machinery is brought in to dig out and create the footprint for your in-ground pool. This can take anywhere from a day to a week depending on the size and complexity of your swimming pool design.
3. Structural Shell and Plumbing
This phase can take a week to three weeks on average. This part of the job includes installing things like rebar grids for support, adding utility connections, and creating the pool structure or shell of the pool.
4. Curing and Hardscaping
This part of the process can take two to four weeks. During this stage, concrete is poured, tile is laid, and the decking or patio is created. This can be a long process if you have designed a complex pool area that will require a lot of unique areas to be built. Your pool design team can help you to be prepared for the length of time that this part of the process will require. You should be sure that you understand what this part of the job will take.
5. Interior Finish Work and Filling With Water
This is the last major step in the process of completing a swimming pool. Plaster and interior finishes are applied to the pool, it is filled with water, and the pump, heater, and other systems are all tested. This is the final process to verify that the pool is working as it should. Your pool builder should be able to help you balance the water for the first time as well.
In some counties or cities, there might be an additional permitting or sign-off process that needs to be completed before you are allowed to start using your swimming pool. Your pool builder should be aware of these requirements if they are unique to where you live.
Questions to Ask Your Pool Builder
If you have never had a swimming pool added to your property, you might have a lot of questions about the process. That is totally all right, and you should ask your pool builder all of the questions that occur to you before you ever have them break ground on the job.
You should remember to ask about their projected timeline for the work and anything that might cause them to experience delays. It is a good idea to ask about what kinds of unforeseen challenges they might run into, such as bad weather, supply problems, or staffing issues.
If you are looking for a fast pool build, be sure that you inquire about ways to make the process more straightforward. This might mean that you need to cut out design features you were excited about, however. Your pool builder should have no trouble being able to answer these questions, making it easy for you to feel confident in the construction job itself.
Installing an In-Ground Pool Doesn’t Have to be Stressful
If you have been worried about adding an in-ground pool to your property because you dread the idea of construction or having to worry about the project sticking to timelines, this guide should be a big help. While it is a bigger process to install an in-ground pool, it is well worth the time and money. In-ground pools are far superior to above-ground ones, and they will last far longer as well, so long as they are properly cared for.
You will not regret adding a swimming pool to your property because you can use this part of your yard for so much more than swimming. You will be able to lounge in the sun, host parties, and so much more once you create a swimming pool space at your home. Be sure that you ask all of the questions that come to mind when you are in your pool design meeting and take the time to ensure that the pool builder you have selected is a good fit for your needs.
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Our Editorial Team are writers and experts in their field. Their views and opinions may not always be the views of Wellbeing Magazine. If you are under the direction of medical supervision please speak to your doctor or therapist before following the advice and recommendations in these articles.
