Installing an inground pool is an exciting home improvement project. Not only can a backyard pool add value to your property, but it can also expand your living space and enhance the time you spend outside. Still, as exciting as it is to build an inground pool, many homeowners are daunted by the prospect.
One thing homeowners wonder about is how long the installation process will take. You want your pool as soon as possible, but it’s not really that simple. The timeline for installing an inground pool depends on various factors, including the type of pool, weather conditions, permits, and site preparation. In general, the installation process can take anywhere from eight to twelve weeks, though some projects may extend beyond this timeframe due to unforeseen challenges.
As you consider your own timeline for installing your pool, this guide will help you keep some key things in mind.
Factors Affecting Installation Time
As mentioned above, there are several factors that can have a significant impact on your project’s timeline. Let’s explore these factors in more detail.
1. Pool type
The type of pool you choose plays a significant role in determining the installation timeline. Common pool types and their installation times include:
- Fiberglass: These pools are pre-manufactured and delivered in one piece. Because of this, the installation process is relatively quick, typically taking 4–6 weeks.
- Vinyl liner: These pools require a frame to be constructed, followed by the placement of a vinyl liner. The process usually takes 6–8 weeks.
- Concrete (gunite): These pools take the longest to install due to the curing process required for the concrete. Expect a timeframe of 8–12 weeks or more.
Of course, time shouldn’t be the only consideration as you decide what type of pool works best for your yard and family. Speak with a landscape or pool designer to help you make the smartest choice for your wants and needs.
2. Permits and approvals
Before any excavation begins, homeowners must obtain permits from their local municipality. The approval process can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks, depending on local regulations and workload at the permitting office.
You may want to talk to other pool owners, or landscape design professionals, about what information will be required in order to obtain the proper permits. Also, be sure to check with your homeowners’ association so you can factor in any unique guidelines or restrictions for your specific neighborhood.
3. Site preparation and excavation
The initial preparation of the pool site is crucial, typically taking 1-2 weeks. This step includes clearing the area, marking the layout, and excavating the ground. Soil conditions, underground utilities, and unexpected obstacles like large rocks can slow down this phase.
During this stage, be prepared for unexpected setbacks, and remember that you don’t want to rush any part of this process.
4. Weather conditions
Weather plays a significant role in the installation timeline. Rain, snow, or extreme temperatures can delay excavation, concrete curing, and other construction activities. Ideal weather conditions allow for a smoother installation process, but they are impossible to guarantee.
5. Pool customization
Custom features such as waterfalls, tanning ledges, lighting, heating systems, and intricate tile work can extend the installation timeline. More complex designs require additional labor and craftsmanship, leading to longer construction times. If these features are important to you, just bear in mind that they may set your timeline back.
6. Inspection requirements
Local building codes often require inspections at various stages of the installation process to ensure safety and compliance. These inspections are important and necessary, but they can introduce delays if scheduling conflicts arise, or if modifications are required to meet code standards.
General Timeline for Installing an Inground Pool
While each pool installation is unique, and your timeline may be affected by the above factors, here’s a general breakdown of the process and estimated timeframes:
1. Planning and permitting (2–6 weeks)
- Finalizing the pool design
- Obtaining necessary permits
- Scheduling utility mark-outs
2. Excavation and site preparation (1–2 weeks)
- Marking pool layout
- Excavating the ground
- Removing excess soil
3. Pool installation (2–8 weeks)
- Fiberglass pools (1–2 weeks): Delivery, placement in the excavation site, plumbing, and backfilling.
- Vinyl liner pools (2–4 weeks): Frame construction, liner placement, and plumbing installation.
- Concrete pools (6–8 weeks): Reinforcing steel, spraying gunite, curing (which takes several weeks), and applying finishes.
4. Plumbing, electrical, and additional features (1–3 weeks)
- Installing pool pumps, filters, and heaters
- Running electrical and plumbing connections
- Adding optional features like lighting and automation systems
5. Decking and landscaping (2–4 weeks)
- Installing decking (concrete, pavers, or wood)
- Final landscaping and fencing for safety compliance
6. Final inspection and filling (1–2 weeks)
- Passing final inspections
- Filling the pool with water
- Balancing chemicals and testing equipment
How To Speed Up the Installation Process
Many delays in the pool construction process are unavoidable. That said, homeowners can take proactive steps to potentially expedite the installation process:
- Choose a pre-manufactured (fiberglass) pool: Fiberglass pools have the shortest installation time, reducing potential delays.
- Obtain permits early: Starting the permitting process early prevents bureaucratic hold-ups.
- Select a reliable contractor: Hiring an experienced pool contractor ensures efficiency and fewer setbacks. As you do your research, talk to past customers, along with professional landscape designers, and choose someone with a stellar reputation.
- Plan for weather conditions: If possible, schedule installation during favorable weather months to minimize weather-related delays.
- Opt for standard or simple designs: Custom pools require additional construction time. Choosing a standard design can speed up the process.
Adding an inground pool to your backyard is a multi-step process that requires careful planning—and patience. While it’s perfectly reasonable to expect your project to run smoothly and fall in the typical eight-to-twelve-week timeframe, there are several factors that could affect your project and require more time to get right. As long as you do your best to set yourself up for success, you can feel good knowing that you did all you could to create a smooth, predictable installation experience. Remember: it will all be worth it in the end!
