Your Pool Construction Journey
From Plan to Plunge: What to Expect at Every Stage
Building a swimming pool is one of the most exciting upgrades you can make to your home. Understanding the process is the key to a stress-free and enjoyable experience. This guide walks you through every step so you know exactly what to expect.
Remember, the very first step to a successful build is a professional plan. Your plan is the blueprint that guides every stage listed below.
A Note on Timelines: Typical gunite pool projects take 8–14 weeks from excavation to first swim. Timelines can vary based on location, project complexity, weather, and municipal inspections.
The Construction Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
Phase 1: Pre-Construction
Step 1: Design & Permitting
What Happens: Finalize your pool design and submit to your local building department for approval to meet all safety and construction codes.
Typical Duration: 2–8 weeks (varies by municipality)
Phase 2: The Heavy Lifting
Step 2: Layout & Staking
What Happens: Your builder paints and stakes the pool shape and position. First chance to see the true scale of your pool.
Typical Duration: 1 day
Step 3: Excavation (The Big Dig)
What Happens: Heavy machinery digs the precise pool shape and depth. Transformative and exciting!
Typical Duration: 1–2 days
Step 4: Steel Reinforcement
What Happens: Rebar is installed to create the pool’s structural integrity.
Typical Duration: 1–2 days
Step 5: Plumbing & Electrical Rough-In
What Happens: Pipes, drains, skimmers, lighting, and other systems installed before concrete.
Typical Duration: 2–4 days
Step 6: Gunite / Shotcrete (Forming the Shell)
What Happens: High-strength concrete sprayed over steel to form pool shell, then cured.
Typical Duration: 1 day to apply, 7+ days to cure
Phase 3: The Finishing Touches
Step 7: Tile & Coping
What Happens: Decorative waterline tile and coping installed.
Typical Duration: 2–5 days
Step 8: Decking & Patio Installation
What Happens: Surrounding deck area formed and poured or laid.
Typical Duration: 2–7 days
Step 9: Pool Equipment Setup
What Happens: Pump, filter, heater, and sanitizing systems installed and connected.
Typical Duration: 1–2 days
Step 10: Plaster / Interior Finish
What Happens: Waterproof interior finish applied, giving the pool its final color and feel.
Typical Duration: 1 day
Phase 4: The Finish Line
Step 11: Filling the Pool & Chemical Start-Up
What Happens: Pool is filled, equipment started, and water chemistry balanced for the first time.
Typical Duration: 2–3 days
Step 12: "Pool School" & Handover
What Happens: Builder walks you through pool operation, equipment usage, and maintenance. Time to grab your swimsuit!
Ready to Start Your Pool Journey?
It all begins with the perfect construction-ready plan.