On sweltering summer days, nothing beats a dip in your very own state-of-the-art in-ground swimming pool.
However, luxury doesn’t always come quickly. A custom pool installation can take anywhere from two to ten weeks to complete, depending on the type of pool you’re building. There are a few things you can do to be sure your project is completed on time. Keep these factors in mind when planning and you’ll be soaking up the sun in no time.
Building Material
Perhaps the most important factor in determining the construction timetable for your pool installation is the type of pool you choose.
When planning the specifications of your custom in-ground pool, you’ll have three types to choose from – concrete, vinyl, and fiberglass.
Concrete pools are the most popular, strongest, and durable. Also referred to as shotcrete since concrete is shot from a gun into steel-reinforced walls forming the shell of the pool, concrete pools can be formed to just about any size or shape. Once the concrete is cured, it’ll be plastered smooth, painted, finished with a textured surface or tiled.
It typically takes longer to install a concrete pool than any other type (well worth the time). Size and complexity of the build must be factored in, with concrete pools averaging between seven to nine weeks from excavation to complete. Knowing this in advance will help you create a realistic construction schedule with your builder.
Excavation Site
Another factor that can affect the time it takes to construct your pool is the spot in your yard that you’ve chosen as the site of your installation.
If you’re building on a tight schedule, the planned site of your pool is important to consider. Choosing a spot that will be difficult to excavate or may need a retaining wall can add days, possibly weeks, to your installation. An experienced pool builder will conduct a pre-excavation meeting with the customer after grading the yard to ensure everything is ready to go before work begins on plumbing, electrical and shotcrete installation.
It’s also important to make sure construction equipment will be able to access the spot without hindrance. Make the project as smooth as possible for your builders and it will naturally go much faster.
Applying for Permits
Building a swimming pool may not seem like a major construction project. However, you’ll still need to make sure you have permits from your town before installation can begin.
In most cases, your pool builders will handle the permits. This is often just one of the many services they provide their clients. However, in the middle of construction season, permits can be difficult to come by in a timely fashion.
Taking the initiative to secure a permit ahead of time can save you time down the road. Just be clear when you plan to start your project. That way your permit won’t expire before construction begins.
Avoid Working with the Wrong Contractor
It’s important to do your research beforehand to try to avoid pool contractors that take too long in the building process. Ask for references to get a feel for the type of work they’ve done and the length of time it took. Look around for a pool similar to what you have in mind.
Be sure you understand the building contract and warranty thoroughly prior to any work starting. This will help the building process go more smoothly. There shouldn’t be any ambiguity about the project.
Building a Swimming Pool On Time
With a little planning, your swimming pool installation can be an easy efficient process. Follow these tips and you’ll be floating in your own custom pool in no time.
We at JSQ Improvements highly recommend selecting concrete as the building material for your new pool. You won’t be disappointed!
Looking for pool inspiration? Check out our gallery to view our concrete custom pools.
JSQ Improvements specializes in quality custom pools, design and outdoor living. Our professional pool installation and renovation team are available in Huntington Beach and surrounding Orange County areas.