How to Build a Pool: Complete A to Z Process Guide 2026

Pool Construction: The Ultimate Complete Process Guide

Building a pool is a significant investment that transforms your home and lifestyle. This comprehensive guide takes you step by step through the entire process, from initial planning to your first swim. With the right information, you can make informed decisions and create the pool of your dreams.

Phase 1: Planning and Design (Weeks 1-4)

A. Initial Assessment

1. Define Your Budget

• Basic pool (12' x 24'): $25,000 - $40,000
• Standard pool (16' x 32'): $40,000 - $65,000
• Luxury pool (20' x 40'+): $65,000 - $150,000+
• Additional costs: Landscaping (10-15%), deck (15-20%), equipment (5-10%)

2. Evaluate Your Property

• Topography and land slope
• Soil type (clay, sand, rock)
• Water table level (groundwater)
• Access for heavy machinery
• Location of utilities (water, electricity, gas)

3. Verify Local Regulations

• Required building permits
• Local building codes
• Zoning restrictions
• Fencing and safety requirements
• Minimum distances from neighboring property

B. Pool Design

1. Choose Pool Type

2. Determine Shape and Size

• Rectangular: Classic, ideal for swimming and exercise
• Freeform: Natural, integrates with landscaping
• Geometric: Modern, clean lines
• Infinity/Vanishing Edge: Dramatic visual effect

Common sizes:

• Small: 10' x 20' to 12' x 24' (200-288 sq ft)
• Medium: 14' x 28' to 16' x 32' (392-512 sq ft)
• Large: 18' x 36' to 20' x 40' (648-800 sq ft)

Phase 2: Excavation (Week 7)

Excavation Process

Day 1-2: Main Excavation

• Excavator removes earth according to design
• Dig 6-12" deeper than final depth
• Create gradual slope toward main drain

Day 3: Refinement

• Manual excavation of fine details
• Creation of benches for steps
• Leveling of bottom and walls

Phase 3: Plumbing and Electrical (Weeks 8-9)

Plumbing System

• Suction lines: From main drain and skimmers to pump
• Return lines: From pump/filter back to pool
• Material: PVC Schedule 40 (minimum 2" diameter)
• Pressure test: 30-40 PSI for 24 hours

Electrical System

• 100-200 amp sub-panel for pool equipment
• GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) required
• Pump: 220V, 20-30 amp
• Heater: 220V, 30-50 amp
• Lighting: 12V transformer

Phase 4: Pool Structure (Weeks 10-12)

Concrete Pools (Gunite)

Week 10: Steel Installation

• Rebar (reinforcement rod) #3 or #4
• 8-12" spacing in grid pattern
• Tied with wire at all intersections

Week 11: Gunite Application

• Mix of cement, sand, and water applied at high pressure
• Thickness: 8-10" on walls, 10-12" on floor
• Process takes 1 day for average pool
• Initial curing: 7 days with regular watering

Week 12: Complete Curing

• Full cure: 28 days
• Daily watering during first week
• Surface becomes harder over time

Phase 5: Interior Finish (Weeks 13-14)

Finish Options

1. Glass Pool Tiles (Recommended - Premium)

• Advantages: Extreme durability, incomparable beauty, low maintenance
• Cost: $12-$21/sq ft installed
• Lifespan: 50+ years
• Formats: 1"x1", 1"x2", 2"x3", 3"x6" and more
• Features: 100% frost-proof, won't fade, easy cleaning

Glass Tiles Installation Process:

1. Surface preparation (plastering if concrete)
2. Application of modified thin-set adhesive
3. Placement of 12"x12" mesh-mounted sheets
4. Leveling and uniform spacing
5. Drying time: 24-48 hours
6. Application of epoxy grout
7. Final cleaning and sealing

Coverage: 5 sq ft per box | Time: 5-7 days for average pool

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2. Recycled Glass Tiles (Eco-Friendly Premium)

• Advantages: Sustainable, same performance as new glass, competitive price
• Cost: $6-$12/sq ft installed (30-50% savings vs new glass)
• Environmental impact: Saves 200-300 bottles per 100 sq ft
• Coverage: 10-20 sq ft per box (greater efficiency)
• Lifespan: 50+ years (identical to new glass)

See our Recycled Glass collection with 30 eco-friendly designs from $5.97/sq ft

3. Iridescent Tiles (Ultra Premium)

• Advantages: Color-changing visual effects, maximum luxury
• Cost: $12-$19/sq ft installed
• Effect: Colors change based on light and viewing angle
• Ideal for: Infinity pools, luxury spas, high-end projects

See our Iridescent collection with 36 exclusive designs from $11.75/sq ft

4. Plaster (Traditional)

• Cost: $3-$6/sq ft
• Lifespan: 7-15 years
• Maintenance: High, requires re-plastering
• Disadvantages: Stains, rough, requires frequent brushing

Coping and Deck Installation

Coping (Pool Edge):

• Materials: Natural stone, concrete, brick
• Function: Transition between deck and pool
• Cost: $15-$50 per linear foot

Deck:

• Stamped concrete: $8-$18/sq ft
• Pavers: $15-$30/sq ft
• Natural stone: $20-$50/sq ft
• Recommended area: Minimum equal to pool area

Phase 6: Equipment Installation (Week 15)

Main Components

1. Filter Pump

• Variable speed (saves $300-$800/year in electricity)
• Size: 1-2 HP for residential pools
• Cost: $800-$2,000

2. Filter

• Sand: $300-$600 (low maintenance)
• Cartridge: $400-$800 (better filtration)
• DE: $500-$1,000 (superior filtration)

3. Heater (optional)

• Gas: $2,000-$4,000
• Heat pump: $2,500-$5,000
• Solar: $3,000-$7,000

4. Chlorination System

• Salt chlorinator: $1,500-$2,500
• Chemical chlorinator: $200-$500
• UV/Ozone: $1,500-$3,000

5. Automation (optional)

• Basic control: $500-$1,000
• Complete system: $1,500-$3,000
• Smartphone control included

Phase 7: Filling and Initial Chemistry (Week 16)

First Fill

• Time: 24-48 hours for average pool (20,000 gallons)
• Water cost: $80-$200
• Fill to middle of skimmer

Initial Chemistry

Target parameters:

• pH: 7.4-7.6
• Total alkalinity: 80-120 ppm
• Calcium hardness: 200-400 ppm
• Free chlorine: 1-3 ppm

Curing process (Plaster pools):

• Daily brushing of all surfaces
• Keep pump running 24/7
• Daily chemistry adjustments
• Duration: 7-10 days

Phase 8: Landscaping and Safety (Weeks 17-18)

Landscaping

Recommended Plants:

• Palm trees (don't shed many leaves)
• Agaves and succulents
• Lavender and rosemary (aromatic, resistant)
• Ornamental grasses

Avoid:

• Trees that constantly shed leaves
• Plants with invasive roots
• Flowers that attract many bees

Fencing and Safety

Code Requirements:

• Fence: Minimum 4-5 feet height
• Gate: Self-closing and self-latching
• Spacing: Maximum 4" between vertical bars

Fencing options:

• Tempered glass: $150-$300 per linear foot
• Aluminum: $30-$60 per linear foot
• Removable mesh: $15-$25 per linear foot

Additional safety:

• Pool alarm: $200-$500
• Safety cover: $1,500-$5,000
• Life ring and rescue equipment

Phase 9: Final Inspection (Week 19)

Municipal Inspection

Areas inspected:

• Electrical installation and bonding
• Plumbing system
• Fencing and safety
• Drainage and code compliance

Owner Orientation

Contractor should explain:

• Equipment operation
• Basic maintenance
• Water chemistry
• Winterization (if applicable)

Final Documentation

• Equipment warranties (5-10 years)
• Structural warranty (10-25 years for concrete)
• Operation manuals
• As-built plans
• Certificate of completion

Complete Timeline

Total time: 3-5 months from start to first swim

Detailed Budget (16' x 32' Concrete Pool)

Post-Construction Maintenance

Weekly Maintenance

• Test and adjust water chemistry (2-3 times/week)
• Clean skimmers and pump baskets
• Brush walls and floor
• Vacuum bottom
• Check water level

Monthly Maintenance

• Backwash filter (or clean cartridges)
• Inspect equipment
• Clean waterline
• Complete chemistry check

Annual Maintenance

• Professional equipment service
• Tile and grout inspection
• Deep cleaning
• Winterization (cold climates)

Annual Maintenance Costs

• Chemicals: $300-$800/year
• Electricity: $300-$1,200/year
• Water: $100-$300/year
• Professional service: $500-$1,500/year
• Total: $1,200-$3,800/year

Expert Tips

Save Money Without Sacrificing Quality

• Invest in quality tiles: Glass tiles last 50+ years vs plaster lasting 7-15 years
• Variable speed pump: Saves $300-$800/year in electricity
• Salt system: Reduces chemical costs 50-70%
• LED lighting: Uses 75% less energy than incandescent

Avoid These Common Mistakes

• ❌ Choosing cheapest contractor without checking references
• ❌ Not obtaining permits (problems when selling house)
• ❌ Skimping on finish (most visible and used)
• ❌ Not planning adequate drainage
• ❌ Ignoring safety codes

Maximize Your Investment

• ✅ Choose location with maximum sun (reduces heating costs)
• ✅ Install automation from the start (cheaper than later)
• ✅ Use premium tiles like Glass Pool Tiles (last a lifetime)
• ✅ Plan landscaping from the beginning
• ✅ Consider solar heater (ROI in 3-5 years)

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to build a pool?

Typically 3-5 months from start to completion. Fiberglass pools can be ready in 4-6 weeks, while custom concrete pools can take 4-6 months.

What's the best time of year to build?

Spring or fall are ideal. Avoid peak summer (contractors busy, high prices) and deep winter (weather can delay construction).

Do I need permits?

Yes, virtually all jurisdictions require permits for pool construction. Building without permits can result in fines and problems when selling property.

Which type of pool is best?

Depends on your priorities. Concrete offers maximum customization and durability. Fiberglass is quick and low maintenance. Vinyl has lowest initial cost but requires liner replacement.

How much does it increase my property value?

Generally 5-8% in warm climates, less in cold climates. A well-designed and maintained pool can recover 50-70% of its cost when selling.

What's the best finish?

Glass pool tiles are the best long-term investment. They last 50+ years, don't require replacement, are easy to clean, and maintain their beauty. Although initial cost is higher, lifetime cost is lower than plaster which requires re-plastering every 7-15 years.

Conclusion: Your Dream Pool is Within Reach

Building a pool is a major project, but with proper planning and the right decisions, you can create an oasis you'll enjoy for decades. Key points to remember:

• ✅ Plan carefully: Time invested in planning saves money and headaches
• ✅ Choose experienced contractor: Verify licenses, insurance, and references
• ✅ Invest in quality where it matters: Finish, equipment, safety
• ✅ Obtain all permits: Protect your investment
• ✅ Consider long-term: Maintenance and operating costs

Typical budget: $40,000-$80,000 for quality standard pool

Construction time: 3-5 months

ROI: Invaluable in quality of life, 50-70% in resale value

Next Steps

1. Define your budget and priorities
2. Interview 3-5 experienced contractors
3. Get detailed written quotes
4. Check references and visit completed projects
5. Select premium materials like Glass Pool Tiles for finish
6. Obtain permits before starting
7. Enjoy the process - you'll be swimming soon!

Ready to start your project? Explore our premium tile collections:

• Pool Tiles - 60+ designs from $12/sq ft
• Recycled Glass - 30 eco-friendly designs from $5.97/sq ft
• Iridescent - 36 premium designs from $11.75/sq ft

Last updated: January 2026