how long does it take to install inground pool

There’s no doubt that installing an in-ground swimming pool is a large job that can require quite a bit of work. If you’re on a strict timeline, you need to know how long it will take to install your inground swimming pool.

Luckily, you’ve come to the right place, as we have years of experience with inground pools.

Come with us as we break down how long it will take to install your inground swimming pool.

Pool Construction Process

We’ve broken down the pool-building process into numerous smaller projects to give you a better idea of the pool installation timeline.

Design and Permitting

Finalizing your swimming pool design and getting all of the necessary permits can take anywhere from 1-6 weeks.

Spend a fair amount of time with your pool designer so you can create the perfect pool for your backyard oasis.

When it comes to permits, the timeline comes down to your local permit officials. Typically, pool owners receive their pool permits in less than a week, as most municipalities approve permits quickly. However, if you plan on building unique pool features, such as a pool house or pool deck, the permitting process could take much longer.

Excavation

Excavation is the first step in inground pool installation and typically takes anywhere from 1-2 weeks.

The time it will take to excavate for your new pool will depend on the depth of your pool, local excavation requirements, and whether you’re installing additional swimming pool components, such as retaining walls or patios.

Plumbing and Electrical

Post-excavation, the pool construction team will begin installing plumbing and electrical systems.

This process usually only takes a few days

This process includes:

  • Installing pool circuitry
  • Installing hydro lines
  • Installing lighting (pool fixtures and landscape lighting)
  • Connecting plumbing lines

Material Installation

Depending on the type of material you choose for your inground pool, the material installation process can take anywhere from 1 to 4 weeks.

Here is a breakdown of what you can expect depending on the material you choose:

Vinyl Liner Pool

A vinyl liner pool is the cheapest of the three main pool shell types. See our “Vinyl Pool Costs” guide for pricing information. Typically, the construction team will install the pool walls for vinyl liner pools onsite. The timeline for vinyl pools depends entirely on the project’s complexity.

PRO TIP: We recommend vinyl swimming pools for those who live in cooler climates, as they do much better with freezing temperatures.

Fiberglass Pool

Fiberglass pools are made with prefabricated shells. More often than not, a fiberglass pool shell can be put in the ground and filled with water in a single day. 

However, to maximize the lifespan of fiberglass pools, construction teams must carefully prepare and grade the surrounding area before installing the prefabricated shell. The installation process for a fiberglass backyard pool often depends on how large the shell is.

Concrete Pool

A concrete (gunite) pool is the best choice for those who want total customization. However, concrete pools also take the longest to install and can cost double or triple that of a vinyl or fiberglass pool. For pricing on installation, head over to our “Concrete Pool Cost” article.

Concrete pools require specialized pool builders for installing the gunite, plastering the pool, and finishing the interior with stone, tile, or coping (if applicable).

Concrete swimming pools often take anywhere from 4-6 weeks from the planning process to the actual installation.

While concrete pools might take the longest to install, they are very long-lasting and can increase home value like no other. Therefore, you might expect anywhere from one to two weeks for concrete shell installation.

Are you looking to build an accompanying patio or adequate pathways for your pool?

Beyond installing your new pool, you will need to consider your pool surround and landscaping.

Depending on what kinds of features you want to include in your backyard oasis, this process could also take anywhere from 1-4 weeks.

Pool builders will use this time to install decking, lighting, water features, and anything else you come up with during the design process.

DO NOTE: Your pool contractor might have other pool projects going on at the same time. During peak construction season, your contractor might have a busy schedule. It’s a good idea to talk to your contractor beforehand to see what their current schedule is like.

FAQ

How Much Does It Cost To Install An Inground Pool?

You can expect saltwater pool cost to be slightly higher than a regular chlorine pool, but on average, inground pool installations run anywhere from $25,000 to $80,000. The price can go up from here as a result of additional extras you opt for.

The final overall price tag to build a pool will depend on several factors, including:

  • Type of pool
  • Pool size
  • Water features
  • Custom features

To get an accurate estimate, get in contact with a pool contractor in your area.

Final Thoughts

Once your new pool is finished, it is time to fill it with water. Filling a new pool with a hose can take a long time, so it’s worth speaking with your pool builder to see if they include water delivery in the overall cost.

You can even ask your pool builder if they can balance the water chemistry in your pool, as this will make it safe for you and your family to swim. Well-balanced water chemistry can protect your pool equipment too, giving you longevity.

Make sure to compare quotes from local, reliable pool builders so that you can find the best pool builder for your budget and needs. Happy swimming! 

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