What to Expect During Pool Construction—7 Steps to Build a Luxury Pool

You’re ready to take the plunge and say yes to the pool you’ve been dreaming about for some time. But now what? How long will pool construction take, and what steps are necessary to complete a luxury pool project?

We’re glad you asked. Pool installation is a specialty, and the complex construction process is executed by skilled professionals, including engineers, electricians, masons, plumbers and certified pool installers. Each tradesperson plays a distinct role in bringing a pool design to life.

Also, the pool construction process is the longest part of the project. As you anticipate poolside sunsets, lively barbecues and afternoons splashing with the kids, at some point you’ll wonder, “When will my pool project be done?”

Here is what to expect during pool installation.

#1 Pool Construction Timeline 

At Neave Pools, we understand that you’re investing in a luxury pool and have plans for how and when you’ll use it. Before breaking ground, we’ll talk to you about your desired completion date. We’ll discuss the design and what features might require more time to install so everyone goes into the project with realistic expectations for a start and completion date. On the timeline, we’ll highlight milestones you can look forward to as you watch your pool transform from an architectural rendering into a tangible focal point of your outdoor living space. Communication is essential for managing the many moving parts of your pool construction project, so you’ll hear from the account manager overseeing your project often with updates.

#2 Breaking Ground—Excavation and Grading 

After obtaining permits, a pool installation crew will prepare the site by excavating the designed area, which can include the pool, patio and surrounding landscaping. This is the dirty work using heavy equipment. Pool excavation and grading usually takes two days, though timing depends on the size of your pool and entertainment space and the weather.

#3 The Guts—Pool Plumbing and Framing 

Pool rebar is the bones of a gunite pool, while steel framing supports vinyl pools. Once the site is excavated and graded, rebar is installed. This reinforced steel will support your concrete pool.

Next comes the “water works” of your pool. Pool plumbing involves PVC pipes for connecting filters, suction lines, the skimmer and main drain. Your pool will also have a return line. Filtration and pumping equipment are installed after masonry, tile and coping.

#4 Taking Shape—Pool Masonry and More 

Your pool installation crew will apply the gunite shell or install the liner of a vinyl pool. The team will build out pool elements such as a sun shelf, infinity edges and waterfalls. Next, pool coping is installed and tile is applied. The timeframe for this portion of the project depends on the complexity of your pool. Pool gunite must cure, and intricate tile designs require more time. Not to worry, your project manager will act as a quarterback through the process, ensuring that pool construction professionals are on site when needed. Once the pool structure is created, filtration and pool pump equipment is installed, including swimming pool automation.

#5 Just Add Plaster—and Water 

Finally, the pool installation team will apply interior plaster to your pool and allow it to cure. Next, your pool is filled and chemicals are balanced. We suggest waiting at least 48 hours after the pool is filled to begin swimming. Your pool will take up to 30 days to completely cure, and during this time we’ll monitor and maintain pool chemical levels carefully. It can take up to a month for the pH to stabilize.

#6 Beyond the Pool—Creating Your Outdoor Living Space

Now your outdoor living room will come together as the installation team constructs the pool patio, plants landscaping, places fencing, and installs irrigation and landscape lighting. Your plan might include an outdoor kitchen, dining area, fire pit and lounge deck. Keep in mind, we can break up the outdoor living project into phases to accommodate your budget.

#7 Final Inspections and Follow-Up

Neave Pools coordinates final inspections, which include a thorough walk-through to check the pool deck and coping. The inspector will review safety features like fencing and gates. The pool liner or foundation is assessed for damage. Other pool inspection points include: drains, lights, handrails, ladders, and equipment such as filters, pumps and electrical.

Jump Into a New Pool

From design to installation, Neave Pools creates a custom plan to make your pool dream a reality. Pool permits are being issued now as we work safely through the COVID-19 pandemic. Don’t put your plans on hold—let’s create an outdoor space with a pool that will make staying at home a true pleasure.

Contact us at 845-463-0592 in Hudson Valley, 914-271-7996 in Westchester and 203-212-4800 in Connecticut. Or, fill out our contact form and we’ll get in touch with you.