How Long Does It Take To Build a Swimming Pool? Our Process From Design to Completion

On average, building an inground swimming pool takes 10 to 12 weeks after construction begins, while the full process from design and permits to completion typically takes 15 to 22 weeks. Timelines can vary depending on factors like permitting, weather conditions, and custom pool features.

Let’s take a look at the different stages of building a pool and how long it all usually takes.

The Swimming Pool Building Process

Each phase of the pool building process takes time to ensure everything is done correctly. Here’s a general overview of what to expect.

1. Designing Your Pool (1-4 Weeks)

Deciding on a design is the very first step of building a swimming pool, and this entails having multiple meetings with the designer. 

You can browse designs online along with the galleries of images that are provided to you, which will help you customize your pool accordingly. 3D modeling technology has also made this process much easier. 

The design process can take anywhere between one to four weeks.

2. Getting Relevant Permits & Approval (4-6 Weeks)

The next step is getting a permit for your swimming pool, and the duration for this step in the swimming pool building process varies depending on the town or county you’re in and how fast the officials act. It can take anywhere between four to six weeks.

Most townships or cities require you to acquire a residential building permit for your swimming pool. City officials, neighbors, as well as local professionals are communicated with so as to ensure the safety of the entire process.

3. Pool Excavation (1-2 Days)

Although the process of excavation can get done in a day or two, it could take longer if complications occur and restrictions are placed regarding utility lines and such. 

Factors such as the accessibility of the backyard, weather conditions, moisture level of the soil, and even natural obstructions can all affect the time it takes to excavate a pool.

After excavation, the remaining phases of construction typically take 10 to 12 weeks, as each step involves scheduling, inspections, and curing time between stages.

4. Installing Steel, Plumbing & Electrical (2 Days-2 Weeks)

Once the swimming pool has been dug, the next is laying the steel, routing the plumbing and electrical, and ensuring that the underworkings of the pool are set up in a manner such that they’re completely reliable. 

Therefore, while it can be done in about two days, this step of the pool building process could take up to two weeks based on the size of the pool and its complexity.

5. Gunite Applications & Curing Process (1-2 Weeks)

This is the exciting part where you actually get to see your swimming pool take shape. During the application process, the gunite is shot out of a nozzle using high velocity air where it is mixed with water at the delivery point, while finishers with trowels then shape and smooth the pool. 

This is also when any swim outs, benches or stairs are created. Once the gunite is completed, it will then need to cure before it can be plastered in your chosen finish and color. 

While the gunite application itself is typically completed in one day, the curing process can take up to 28 days.

6. Building Deck, Landscaping & Custom Pool Features (2-4 Weeks)

Adding the creative features comes next in this process, whether it’s coping, decorative tile, decorative lining, and so on. Adding landscaping, including lighting and water features can take a minimum of one to two weeks and a maximum of four weeks. 

Adding the final coating is what comes next, and once all this is done, your pool will be built and ready to go.

However, there’s also another step you need to factor in, which is making the pool ready for whoever wants to swim in it. This includes filling up the pool, getting the pool pump and pool filter and pool heater installed, and then adding the necessary chemicals.

Factors That Delay Pool Building Timeline

It is common for people to wonder why it’s taking longer for their swimming pool to be built. 

There are a variety of factors that lengthen the amount of time it takes, including:

• Bad weather
• Permit backlogs
• Work site issues
• Design complexity
• Custom pool features and upgrades

Your Tampa Bay Pool Building Experts

When it comes to your backyard, the swimming pool building experts at Tampa Bay Pools have what it takes to create a gorgeous poolscape you can enjoy with family and friends for years to come. Contact us today to learn more about the swimming pool building process and to schedule your design consultation. 

About Tampa Bay Pools

Tampa Bay Pools is a custom pool builder serving Tampa Bay, Brandon, Riverview, Lithia, Valrico, Odessa, Lutz, Plant City, and Seffner areas, who understands the importance and value of your own backyard escape. That’s why we build spectacular new inground swimming pools that are easy to maintain. 

We offer a wide variety of custom projects including residential or commercial swimming pool building, stunning custom features to customize your pool, outdoor enclosures for your backyard oasis, and custom spas. 

Our swimming pools can be designed to fit any style or budget; we even offer swimming pool financing options.

FAQs

What is the fastest way to build a swimming pool?

The fastest pool builds typically involve simpler designs, minimal custom features, and favorable weather conditions. Working with an experienced contractor can also help avoid delays.

Do custom features increase pool build time?

Yes, features like spas, waterfalls, lighting systems, and outdoor kitchens can extend the construction timeline by several weeks.

Is it faster to build a fiberglass pool vs. gunite pool?

Fiberglass pools are typically faster to install, often taking a few weeks, while gunite pools take longer due to curing and customization. However, gunite pools offer more durability as well as greater flexibility in design and customization.

Can pool construction happen at the same time as landscaping?

In some cases, certain landscaping elements can be completed alongside pool construction, but most final landscaping is done after major construction is finished to avoid damage.

How soon can you swim after a pool is completed?

Most pools are ready for swimming within a few days after filling, once the water is balanced and equipment is properly set up.