If you're planning to build an in-ground swimming pool, one of the most important questions to ask is: How long will construction take?
According to Subs For Pools, most pools are completed in approximately 30 working days, or about six weeks, once construction begins.
That does not mean crews are continuously working on the property for 30 consecutive days without interruptions.
Pool construction involves multiple phases, inspections, drying periods, preparation, and scheduling between crews. Weather, permits, inspections, reroutes, change orders, and customer delays can also affect the timeline.
How Long Does a Typical Pool Build Take?
Subs For Pools lists a typical total working time of 30 working days — approximately 6 weeks. The company emphasizes that this is a typical construction timeline rather than a guarantee that every project will take exactly six weeks.
What Happens During Pool Construction?
A standard pool build follows a sequence of construction phases:
1. Layout
2. Excavation
3. Concrete equipment pad
4. Steel
5. Plumbing and equipment installation
6. Gunite
7. Electrical
8. Gas, if needed
9. Tile and coping make ready
10. Deck drains
11. Decking
12. Deck coating
13. Mastic
14. Final make-ready
15. Fence replacement
16. Interior surface
17. Start-up and Pool School
What Can Delay Pool Construction?
Several factors can add time to the typical six-week timeline.
- Rain: For projects in the greater Houston area, one day is added to the timeline for each rain day.
- Inspections: Subs For Pools states that three days are added for each inspection that is needed.
- Utility Reroutes: One day is added for each day of delay caused by a reroute.
- Change Orders: Change orders add three days to the timeline.
- Payment Delays: One day is added for every day payment is delayed under the stated contract conditions.
- Customer Delays: Customer-related delays can add time, including a minimum three-day restart period after certain customer delays.
Why Is Planning Important Before Excavation?
Pool construction involves multiple trades and construction phases.
Subs For Pools requires selections such as tile, coping, plaster/interior surface, and other applicable selections to be made before excavation.
Its price and design process allows homeowners to make those decisions before construction begins.
What About Permits?
Permits and inspections are handled according to the requirements of the local municipality.
Permit costs are not included in the base price.
The company states that the average city permit cost alone is $300, although costs vary by city. Residences in flood zones can require additional permitting.
Because local requirements vary, permit timing can affect the overall project schedule.
What Is the Best Way to Prepare for a Pool Build?
The best way to prepare is to make decisions before construction begins.
That includes:
• Choosing the pool type
• Choosing the pool shape
• Selecting the pool size
• Selecting tile and coping
• Choosing interior finishes
• Deciding on spa options
• Selecting water features
• Selecting lighting
• Reviewing equipment
• Understanding potential additional costs
• Reviewing financing options
• Understanding the expected construction sequence
Frequently Asked Questions About Pool Construction Timelines
How long does it take to build a pool?
Subs For Pools states that most pools take approximately 30 working days, or six weeks, once construction begins.
Does six weeks mean six straight weeks of work?
No. There can be natural gaps between construction phases for inspections, drying, preparation, and scheduling.
Can rain delay pool construction?
Yes. For the greater Houston area, one day is added for each rain day.
How much time does an inspection add?
Subs For Pools states that three days are added for each required inspection.
Do change orders delay a pool build?
Yes. Change orders add three days to the timeline.
When do pool selections need to be made?
Selections including tile, coping, and interior surface must be completed before excavation.
Can customer delays affect the timeline?
Yes. Customer delays can add time to the schedule.
