How Long Does Inground Pool Installation Take?

Swimming pool design guide will give you ideas for that dream pool you want, from concrete pools, above ground pools and even fiberglass pools.

FREE Pool Design Guide

Download our FREE 25-page Swimming Pool Design Guide and create a perfect paradise in your backyard.

Embarking on the journey to install an inground pool is an exciting venture that promises endless relaxation and fun. However, one of the first questions that springs to mind is, “How long does it take to install an inground pool?” The answer isn’t straightforward, as several factors include the type of inground pool, the time of year, and required permits.

At Neave Group, we understand the anticipation of wanting to dive into your new, shiny, perfect pool, and we’re here to guide you through the timeline, ensuring a smooth and efficient process from having the pool installed to learning about aftercare and pool equipment to your first swim.

Understanding the Pool Installation Timeline

A pool building timeline for installing an in-ground pool typically spans 8 to 12 weeks, but it’s essential to understand that this is a flexible estimate. Various factors can influence the duration of the pool-building process. Here, we break down these factors to give you a clearer picture of what to expect.

A Neave Group specialist in the planning stage to build a pool for a homeowner

Initial Consultation and Pool Design (1-2 Weeks)

The first step in your pool installation journey begins with a consultation and pool design process. During this time, you’ll meet with a Neave Group pool designer to discuss your vision, preferences, and requirements for your new pool. Our designers take this opportunity to suggest materials, features, and straightforward pool designs that align with your desires and budget. This collaborative planning process ensures that the final design perfectly reflects your dream pool. Typically, this phase of the pool building process is completed within one to two weeks, depending on the complexity of your pool project and how quickly decisions are made.

Permit Acquisition (2-6 Weeks)

Once the design is finalized, obtaining the necessary permits is the next hurdle. The duration of this phase can vary significantly based on your local municipality’s requirements. Some areas offer quick approvals within two weeks, while others may require multiple approvals, attendance at planning board meetings, or additional input from engineers and pool contractors, extending the process to up to six months. Neave Group leverages its extensive experience and local knowledge to navigate this process as efficiently as possible, aiming to minimize delays.

A pool company being careful to avoid plumbing lines when excavating for a swimming pool

Excavation and Preparation (1-2 Weeks)

With permits in hand, the next step is breaking ground. Excavation is a critical phase where the site is prepared for the pool installation. This process usually takes about a week but can extend to two weeks, depending on the size of the pool, soil conditions, and accessibility of the site. Neave Group’s skilled pool contractor team ensures this phase is carried out precisely and carefully, setting a solid foundation for the rest of the pool project.

Pool Construction Process (3-8 Weeks)

The pool construction phase duration varies based on the type of pool you’ve chosen:

Vinyl-liner Pools: These pools are quicker to install, typically requiring about 3 to 4 weeks from start to finish. The construction process is streamlined, but the accompanying patio or pool deck construction can add to the timeline.
Fiberglass Pools: A fiberglass pool can be installed relatively quickly, in 4 to 6 weeks. The pre-manufactured pool shells mean less on-site work, but preparation and finishing touches are still time-consuming.
Concrete Pools: Offering the most customization, a concrete pool takes the longest to install, usually between 3 and 6 months. This includes the time required for the concrete to cure before the pool can be finished and filled.

The Neave Group team forming the pool structure as part of building a pool

Finishing Touches (1-4 Weeks)

The final stage of the pool building timeline involves adding the finishing touches, such as landscaping, lighting, pool structures, and water features like waterfalls or spas. Depending on the complexity and scale of the finishing work, this phase can take anywhere from one to four weeks.

At Neave Group, we understand that time is of the essence. Our team works diligently to ensure that each phase of the pool installation process is completed efficiently without compromising on the quality of artistry or materials. We’re committed to keeping you informed and involved every step of the way, ensuring that your pool installation experience is as enjoyable and stress-free as possible.

Natural stone encasing a hot tub and a sublime electrical instalaltion showing limelight with this inground pool design

Types of Pools and Their Installation Timelines

When choosing the material for your inground pool, it’s essential to understand the installation timelines and the reasons behind these durations. Each material has unique characteristics influencing the installation process and the required completion time. Here’s a closer look at what goes into installing vinyl-liner, fiberglass, and concrete pools and why each material demands a specific timeframe.

Vinyl Liner Pools: Precision and Preparation

Vinyl liner pools are celebrated for their cost-effectiveness and adaptability to various shapes and sizes. The installation process, typically 2 to 4 weeks post-excavation, is streamlined due to the pre-fabricated nature of many pool components. However, the precision required in preparing the site and installing the frame that supports the liner is crucial. The pool’s base must be meticulously smoothed to prevent any damage to the liner, and the pool walls—often made of steel or polymer—require precise alignment to ensure the liner fits perfectly. While ensuring a swift installation, this attention to detail dictates the timeframe.

Fiberglass Pools: Speed Meets Strategy

A fiberglass pool is renowned for its strength and ease of maintenance, with installation times generally between 4 to 6 weeks. One of the critical factors in this relatively quick installation is the pool’s one-piece construction, which arrives ready to be placed into the pre-excavated hole. However, the speed of installation also depends on the careful coordination of site preparation, including ensuring the hole’s dimensions precisely match the pool shell. Additionally, setting the fiberglass pool in place requires the expertise of a professional pool builder to avoid damaging the shell and ensure it’s perfectly level. The transportation of large fiberglass shells can also present logistical challenges that impact the timeline, requiring careful planning and execution.

Gunite Pools: Customization and Curation

Gunite pools offer the pinnacle of customization, allowing for virtually any shape, size, or feature. This flexibility, however, comes with an extended installation period of 3 to 6 months. The reasons are manifold: constructing a gunite pool involves building a reinforced steel framework on-site and applying gunite or shotcrete. This method allows for intricate designs and features but requires significant time for the concrete to cure properly before the finishing touches can be applied.

The Neave Group Difference When it Comes to Pool Construction and Installation

At Neave Group, we don’t just build pools; we create personalized backyard oases. Our process begins with a detailed design consultation, during which we listen to your dreams and aspirations for your pool. We then guide you through the permitting maze, leveraging our local expertise in the counties we serve in New York and Connecticut to avoid unnecessary delays. Our skilled team, equipped with the best materials and techniques, ensures that the installation is seamless and efficient whether you choose a vinyl liner, fiberglass, or concrete pool.

Our holistic approach extends beyond the pool. We incorporate landscaping and patio construction into our pool projects, transforming your backyard into a stunning retreat. With Neave Group, you get a pool and a comprehensive backyard solution tailored to your lifestyle and preferences. Contact us today to see what we can do for you.