If you’re thinking about putting a pool in your backyard, one of the first questions you’re probably asking is, “How long does it take to build a pool?”
That’s a great question—and as pool builders, we hear it all the time.
The truth is, the timeline can vary depending on a few key things, like:
- The type of pool you choose, the complexity of your pool design
- How long to get the permits approved
- And even the weather!
In this guide, we’ll walk you through every step of the pool-building process, from the first design consultation to the day you fill your pool with water. We’ll also explain what parts usually take the longest and how to avoid delays. By the end, you’ll know exactly what to expect—and how to make sure your pool project stays on track.
📋 Outline: What We’ll Cover
- What Factors Impact How Long It Takes to Build a Pool?
- How Long Does It Take to Get Permits for a Pool Project?
- What Happens During the Pool Design Process?
- How Long Does Swimming Pool Construction Take?
- What Type of Pool Takes the Longest to Build?
- How Quickly Can a Fiberglass Pool Be Installed?
- What Delays Pool Installation?
- How Long Does It Take to Build a Pool Deck and Finish Landscaping?
- How Does Pool Equipment Installation Affect the Timeline?
- Tips to Speed Up Your Pool Building Process
What Factors Affect How Long It Takes to Build a Pool?
We get this question a lot, and honestly, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer.
How long it takes to build a pool really depends on a mix of things, like the type of pool you’re going with, the complexity of the pool design, and even the specifics of your property.
For example, a simple fiberglass pool can often be installed in just a couple of weeks. But if you’re going with a custom concrete pool that includes water features or a multi-level pool deck, that could stretch the timeline out to a few months. Weather delays, soil conditions, and how experienced your pool contractor is can also play a big role.
Don’t forget about local red tape. The permit process alone can add time, especially if you’re in a city with strict building codes. That’s why it’s so important to choose a pool builder who understands your local regulations and knows how to keep things moving smoothly.
How Long Does It Take to Get Permits for a Pool Project?
Securing permits is one of the very first steps in your pool project, and depending on where you live, this can take anywhere from 1-6 weeks, sometimes even longer.
Most reputable pool builders or pool construction companies will handle this step for you. You’ll usually need permits for excavation, plumbing, and electrical work, and sometimes even fencing or safety gates, depending on your local codes. Every city or county is different, so it’s important to know what’s required ahead of time.
The best way to avoid delays? Make sure your pool company submits a complete, accurate permit application. That includes site plans and all the necessary paperwork. If anything is missing or unclear, the city may kick it back for revisions, which can stall the entire pool building process.
What Happens During the Pool Design Process?
Before any digging begins, you’ll go through the pool design phase—and this is where your dream pool really starts to take shape.
You’ll sit down with a pool designer to talk about what you want. Do you want a sleek, modern rectangle? Or maybe a natural, freeform shape that blends into your backyard?
You’ll also decide on things like pool size, depth, decking materials, and optional extras like a spa or water features. Behind the scenes, we’ll map out important details like plumbing, filtration, lighting, and the pool equipment needed to keep everything running smoothly.
This phase usually takes 1 to 3 weeks, depending on how quickly you make your decisions. If you already have a clear idea of your style and budget, the design process can move along faster.
How Long Does Swimming Pool Construction Take?
Once your pool design is finalized and all the permits are approved, it’s time to move into pool construction. This is when the real transformation begins, starting with excavation and moving through framing, plumbing, electrical work, and pool shell installation.
The exact timeline depends on the type of pool you’re building. Here’s a breakdown of how long construction typically takes for each:
| Type of Pool | Estimated Construction Time | Notes |
| Concrete Pool | 6–10+ weeks | Includes rebar, gunite or shotcrete application, curing, plastering, and any extras like water features or a complex pool deck. |
| Vinyl Liner Pool | 4–6 weeks | Faster because the vinyl liner is pre-made and installed once the foundation is ready. |
| Fiberglass Pool | 2–3 weeks | Quickest option, your fiberglass pool arrives pre-formed and can be dropped into place with minimal site work. |
Keep in mind that these are average timelines. Weather, material availability, and site conditions can all impact how long it takes. For example, heavy rain might delay excavation, and specialty pool equipment or custom add-ons could extend your schedule.
Want your swimming pool built as quickly and smoothly as possible? Work with a professional pool builder who has experience managing every phase of the process—from breaking ground to the day you fill your pool with water.
What Type of Pool Takes the Longest to Build?
Of all the options, a concrete pool usually takes the longest to build.
The process involves more steps than other types of pools, including steel framework, gunite spraying, curing, and finishing work.
Unlike fiberglass pools, which arrive pre-molded, a concrete pool is created on-site from the ground up. Weather can delay curing, and intricate pool design elements extend the timeline. On average, expect about 8–12 weeks of build time for a custom in-ground pool made of concrete.
That said, if you want a fully customized look, concrete pools offer the most flexibility in swimming pool design.
How Quickly Can a Fiberglass Pool Be Installed?
A fiberglass pool is the fastest pool to be installed.
Once your backyard is prepped and permits are in place, we can usually have the fiberglass pool installed in as little as 1 to 3 weeks.
Why so fast? The fiberglass shell comes pre-manufactured, which means we’re not building it on your property. Once it arrives, our team will lower the shell into place, connect your pool pump and filtration system, and fill your pool with water.
That said, weather or unexpected soil conditions can slow things down a little. But compared to other pool types, a fiberglass pool is the quickest.
What Can Slow Down Pool Installation?
Weather, permits, design changes, and material delays.
Heavy rain can put a stop to digging or concrete work.
If you decide to tweak your pool design, maybe adding water features or changing the pool deck material, it’ll extend the timeline.
Plus, during busy seasons, a pool contractor might be managing several projects at once.
Supply issues can also be a factor. If the pool equipment or tile you picked isn’t available right away, we might need to wait a few weeks.
That’s why working with a reliable pool builder is very important, they can spot problems early and help keep your pool project on schedule.
How Long Does It Take to Build a Pool Deck and Finish Landscaping?
Building your pool deck and finishing the pool area usually takes another 1 to 3 weeks, depending on the materials and features you choose.
For example, concrete decks can be poured quickly, but natural stone or detailed paver layouts take more time. If you’re adding extras like landscape lighting, an outdoor kitchen, or custom irrigation, that’ll extend the timeline a bit.
Landscaping is the final touch that turns your new pool into a backyard oasis. Whether it’s privacy hedges, a pergola, or some fresh sod, these finishing details make a big difference and they’re worth the wait.
How Does Pool Equipment Installation Affect the Timeline?
In most cases, we can get this done in about a week.
However, the more advanced your setup, the more time it might take.
If you’re going with pool automation, a salt water system, or custom LED lighting, it could take a few extra days. That’s especially true if we need to bring in a licensed electrician or wait on final electrical permits.
Tips to Speed Up the Pool Building Process
If you’re eager to swim sooner, there are a few smart ways to keep things moving:
- Choose the right pool contractor. Pick someone with experience building your type of pool—they’ll know how to avoid common delays.
- Lock in your design early. Making big design changes mid-project (like adding a spa or changing deck material) can add weeks.
- We recommend making selections early, so we can order materials in advance. Waiting on tile, lights, or pumps can stall your timeline.
- If possible, schedule your build during drier months. Stormy or freezing weather can pause the building process.
- Stay in touch. Good communication with your builder helps solve problems quickly and keep your pool project on track.
Build Your Dream Pool with Sutton Pools in Clarksville, TN
At Sutton Pools, we make building your dream pool easy and stress-free. As expert pool builders in Clarksville, TN, we handle everything from pool design and permits to construction and installation. Whether you’re interested in a concrete, fiberglass, or vinyl liner pool, our team has the experience to get the job done right.
When you consult with us, we’ll give you a clear estimate of how much your pool will cost, how long it will take to build, and what to expect throughout the process. Call us today!
Key Takeaways: How Long Does It Take to Build a Pool?
- The time it takes to build a pool depends on pool design, type of pool, and permit processes.
- Concrete pools take the longest, up to 12 weeks or more, due to onsite customization.
- A fiberglass pool can be installed in as little as 1–3 weeks.
- Permits can delay your pool project by several weeks, so start early.
- The pool design process usually takes 1–3 weeks before breaking ground.
- Pool installation delays are often caused by weather, design changes, or supply shortages.
- Your pool and backyard won’t be complete without decking and landscaping, which can take another 1–3 weeks.
- Equipment like your pool pump and lighting must be installed and tested before you can fill your pool.
- Working with a trusted pool builder keeps your pool-building timeline on track.
- Expect a full timeline ranging from 3 weeks for a simple fiberglass pool to 3+ months for a complex concrete pool.
FAQs
Q. Why does it take so long to build a pool?
A. Building a pool involves a lot more than just digging a hole and filling it with water. We have to go through multiple steps—design, permitting, excavation, plumbing, electrical work, installing the shell, building the deck, and more. On top of that, weather, permit delays, material availability, and last-minute changes can all slow things down. It’s a big project, and taking the time to do it right ensures your pool is safe, durable, and beautiful.
Q. How soon can you swim in a new pool?
A. It depends on the type of pool you’re building. With a fiberglass pool, you might be swimming in as little as 1–3 weeks after installation. A concrete pool takes longer—usually 6–12 weeks—because the concrete has to cure properly before it’s safe to finish and fill. Once the pool is filled, balanced with the right chemicals, and the equipment is tested, you’re good to go!
Q. What time of year is it cheapest to build a pool?
A. Fall and winter are often the most affordable times to build a pool. That’s because demand is lower, and contractors may offer off-season discounts or faster timelines. Plus, if you start during the cooler months, your pool will likely be ready to enjoy by spring or early summer.
Q. What is the average lifespan of a pool?
A. It depends on the type of pool and how well it’s maintained. A fiberglass pool can last 25–30 years or more with minimal upkeep. Vinyl liner pools usually need a new liner every 7–10 years, but the structure can last longer. Concrete (gunite) pools have the longest lifespan—up to 50 years or more—though they’ll need resurfacing about every 10–15 years.
Q. What costs the most when building a pool?
A. The biggest cost factors are usually the pool type and the custom features you choose. Concrete pools tend to cost the most because they’re fully customized and labor-intensive. Adding extras like waterfalls, spas, lighting, automation, or custom decking can also drive up the price. On top of that, site access, land grading, and permits can add to the overall cost, depending on your property and location.
