If you’re dreaming of relaxing summer days spent lounging by your own backyard oasis, you’re probably asking yourself one big question: “How long does it take to build a pool?” As an award-winning pool builder in Florida, our team at Oasis Pavers and Pools gets this question from homeowners all the time.
While we’d love to give you a single, magic number, the truth is that timelines vary based on your specific design, the permitting process in your city, and construction schedules. However, understanding the general phases of construction can help you plan your project with confidence. Let’s dive into what you can expect when building your dream pool.
The Average Timeline Overview
Generally speaking, you can expect the actual construction of an inground pool to take anywhere from 6 to 12 weeks. This timeframe starts once the shovel hits the dirt and ends when you’re ready to take your first swim.
It’s important to note that the type of pool matters. Concrete (shotcrete) pools, which offer the most customization and durability, typically lean towards the 8–12 week range because of the curing time required for the concrete.
Main Construction Stages
To answer the question, how long does it take to build a pool, we need to break this down into the key stages of construction. Here’s an overview with common estimates.
Design & Planning (1–3 Weeks)
This is the fun part! You’ll work with our designers to visualize your perfect backyard. We’ll discuss shapes, features like waterfalls or spas, and materials. Once you approve the design, we create the detailed plans needed for permits.
Permits (2–6 Weeks)
Before we can break ground, we need permission from your local municipality. The time this takes depends entirely on your local building department’s workload and specific requirements. Though we handle the paperwork, this is often the variable that most affects how long it takes to build a pool.
Excavation (A Few Days to 1 Week)
Once we have the green light, heavy machinery arrives to dig the hole. This happens surprisingly fast—usually in just a day or two—though access issues or hitting an unexpected rock can add a little time.
Installation or Construction (2–6 Weeks)
For concrete pools, this involves framing the steel, shooting the concrete (gunite), and letting it cure. Plumbing and electrical work also happen during this phase. If you’re wondering how long it takes to build a pool compared to a neighbor’s project, this stage often accounts for the difference due to the complexity and size of your specific design.
Finishing Touches (1–3 Weeks)
The final stretch includes installing tile, coping, and the interior finish, whether tile surface options or a pebble finish. We also handle the hardscaping, like your pool deck or patio, during this phase. After everything is set, we fill the pool with water and balance the chemicals, so you’ll be ready to get swimming in no time.
What Can Affect the Timeline?
Even with a perfect plan, several factors can influence how long it takes to build a pool in your specific backyard.
- Weather: Rain is the enemy of excavation and concrete work. A rainy season can push timelines back significantly.
- Customization: A simple rectangular pool is faster to build than a freeform lagoon with features like a grotto, slide, and attached spa.
- Backyard Conditions: If your yard has difficult access (requiring smaller equipment) or rocky soil, excavation will take longer.
- Builder Availability: High demand during the busy season can lead to longer wait times, but scheduling construction in autumn or winter can help speed up the process.
An inground pool installation can cost anywhere from $38,000 to $100,000, but the time investment is just as critical to budget for. Knowing that delays are normal helps keep stress levels low. At Oasis, our pool installations typically start in the mid-$50,000 range, with final pricing depending on a few different factors.
Your Oasis Awaits
So, how long does it take to build a pool? For most of our clients, the journey from design to splash-down takes a few months, but the result is a lifetime of memories. The key is to start planning early—ideally in the winter or early spring—so you’re swimming by summer.
Ready to stop wondering how long it takes and start building your pool instead? Oasis Pavers and Pools is here to help with everything from your new pool to the decking and decor around it. Get started on your backyard transformation today!
