What goes into building a pool?
By Thumbtack Staff•Last updated Nov 7, 2022
Last updated Nov 7, 2022
Sorry, you can’t DIY this — unless your idea of a “pool” is a waist-deep mud hole that holds no water. Here’s what it takes to build a pool, according to experts at Thumbtack.
In-ground swimming pool construction, step by step
Step 1: Select a location
If you have a spot in mind for an in-ground pool, make sure there’s enough room for the size you want. Have your pool builder do a site inspection to see how much excavation, or digging and leveling, will be needed.
Make sure the pool will fit while still leaving space for poolside activities and furniture such as lounge chairs, patio sets, and landscaping. In some cases, an above-ground pool might be a better option for your property and budget.
Get help from a pro. Here are the best pool builders near you.
Step 2: Choose the pool size and shape
Rectangular or oblong pools tend to be about twice as long as they are wide, such as 10 by 20 feet or 15 by 30 feet. For a lap-only pool, experts recommend a length of 30 to 75 feet, a minimum width of eight feet, and a depth of four to five feet.
A swimming pool designed for recreation typically has a shallow end with a depth of less than three feet and becomes progressively deeper toward the other end, often nine feet deep or more if you’re adding a diving board.
Your pool shape will depend on how much space you have, what activities you plan to do, and other factors like the architectural style of your house. It’s best to consult with a landscape architect if you want something highly custom.
Step 3: Select the design and special features
The possibilities are endless. But if you want to add extra design and water features like slides, bubblers, fountains, grottos, and more, you’ll need to account for them carefully in your budget.
Some extras, like jetted hot tubs, are surprisingly affordable. Make a list of must-haves for your builder, and ask for a detailed estimate of each feature you want to add.
Step 4: Make sure the necessary permits are in order
Your pool builder should know the permit guidelines in your area for installing an in-ground or above-ground swimming pool. The associated costs and timeline should be included in your project agreement. For more smart hiring tips, see this guide from Thumbtack.
Step 5: Yard excavation starts
Excavation is the first step in the in-ground pool construction process. Your builder will use excavators to dig the hole where the pool will go and other specialized equipment to carve the exact shape of your pool and set forms for the concrete that will form the pool’s base. If you’re installing a fiberglass in-ground pool, your builder should also lay a gravel bed.
Step 6: Call in reinforcements
Pool builders use steel rebar to frame and support the pool walls and bed. Sometimes, the surrounding deck area gets reinforced, too.
Next, the plumbing and electrical are installed to run the heating and filtration systems. You have choices when it comes to filtration, so consult your builder for advice on this and other factors like pool maintenance costs.
Step 7: Gunite goes in
Once the steel, plumbing, and electrical are installed, the builder’s crew can spray in the gunite, sometimes also called shotcrete. Unlike concrete, which must be poured, gunite can be sprayed into the pool’s form with a pressure hose for an even finish and relatively short curing time.
Get free estimates. Contact the best pool builders near you.
Step 8: Finishing touches bring your pool design to life
Once the gunite is cured, your builder should lay the foundation for the patio surrounding the pool if they haven’t already, finish the pool’s surface, and install tile coping or another material depending on your design. The builder should fill the pool with water, test all the equipment, and set up any automatic controls for heat and lighting.
After crews haul away the construction debris, a technician can show you how to work the controls. You may want to hire a pool cleaning service too.
How much does building a pool cost?
The average cost to build a concrete in-ground pool is significantly higher than the cost to put in a prefabricated pool, either in-ground or above-ground. It can run you from $30,000 to $80,000 or more, depending on where you live, because of the extra labor, materials, and equipment required.
Using a prefabricated fiberglass shell may be more budget-friendly, but you’ll want to check with an expert to make sure the soil conditions in your area and on your home’s lot will work with a prefab pool.
If you live in an area where swimming pools are common, like Phoenix, Las Vegas, or Miami, labor costs may be lower than in areas like Los Angeles, where the cost of living is higher than average. Extra features in your pool design will also increase the cost.
Who to hire to install a pool
Design your dream pool, get construction going, and put the finishing touches on your lounge area. Find everyone you need to install a pool on Thumbtack.
How it works.
Search.
Browse profiles, see prices and use filters to find pros who match your project.
Chat.
Contact the pros you like to discuss project details.
Hire.
Check pro availability and book appointments right in the app.
Find local pros for your project
Tell us what you're looking for and we'll show you pros right for the job, with prices.