How Long Does It Take to Build a Pool?

Your future swimming pool will no doubt be a personal paradise for you and your family. But if you are considering adding a pool to your property, you may be wondering what you can expect when it comes to installation, such as how long it will take for the pool to be built.

For in-ground pools, the time it takes to build them depends on a few different factors. Take a closer look at what building a pool involves and how long you can plan on the process taking.

Before You Build Your Pool

If you want to build a pool, there are a few things you will need to cover before the installation team can get to work. For instance, having the right plan and handling legalities are vital.

Creating a Comprehensive Plan

Designing your ultimate pool paradise first involves creating a detailed plan. You can choose from many types and designs of in-ground pools. Some of the considerations to keep in mind include:

  • Size and shape
  • Placement
  • Type of pool
  • Features
  • Filtration system
  • Fencing
  • Landscaping and design of the surrounding area

This process can proceed quickly, or it can take several weeks.

Covering the Legal Aspects

You’ll need to receive clearance from your local jurisdiction to build a pool on your property. The permit required will vary depending on where you live, and there may be a few requirements you’ll need to meet in order to receive it.

This process may take a week or two. Check with your local city government to learn how long this process generally takes for your area.

The Process of Building Your Pool

Once your pool is designed and you’ve got the necessary permits, your installation team can get to work preparing the site for your pool to be installed. This process requires the following steps:

Yellow excavator digging up soil in a green field for swimming pool

Excavation

Your installation team will first need to dig out the area where your pool will be installed. This can be a quick process, usually only taking a day or two to complete, but there is a chance that underground obstructions may cause some delays.

Installing Your Pool

After excavation is complete, the next step is to build the frame of the pool for vinyl lined pools, or set the fiberglass shell in place for fiberglass pools. Next, the area immediately around the pool will be backfilled and the necessary plumbing and electrical work will be completed. There are a number of variables in this process, such as the lighting options and the water features you choose for your pool, but in general, you can expect it to take one to two weeks to complete.

Finally, the floor of vinyl lined pools will be covered in a vermiculite mixture to provide a solid base for your pool and the liner will then be installed. At this point, all you need to do is add water!

Once your pool is installed, you will have some additional considerations to take care of. For example, what sort of pool deck are you looking for, and how would you like the landscaping around it to look? The answer to those questions will have an impact on how long it takes to have your piece of paradise fully ready to go.

Enclosing the Pool

Inground pools should be fenced in to ensure the safety of you, your family, and your neighbors. This is something you need to consider when designing your pool, as proper fencing will also help ensure that your pool is up to code.

Newly installed rectangular swimming pool, surrounded by freshly dug earth in a backyard

Expert Pool Installation From WCI Pools & Spas

While there are many factors to consider when it comes to building a pool, you can generally expect an in-ground pool to be swim-ready within two to three weeks. Final landscaping and finish work may take longer but won’t impact your use of the pool.

Ready to get started on creating your own personal oasis? WCI Pools & Spas has proudly served Central Iowa homeowners since 1977, and we can help you design and install the pool of your family’s dreams. Reach out to WCI Pools & Spas to learn more today.