You’re ready to turn your backyard into a private oasis, but there’s one question keeping you up at night: how long does it take to build a pool? The honest answer isn’t as simple as “X weeks,” because your timeline depends on several moving pieces, from your design choices to the weather outside your window.
Most homeowners in Southern California can expect their pool project to take anywhere from 8 to 12 weeks once construction begins. But when you factor in design approvals, permits, and scheduling, you’re looking at a more realistic 3 to 6-month journey from your first meeting to your first swim.
The Pool Construction Timeline: What Happens When
Building a pool isn’t a single process—it’s a series of carefully orchestrated stages. Here’s how the pool building process actually unfolds.
- Design and Planning (1-3 Weeks)
This is where your vision starts taking shape. You’ll sit down with designers to discuss what you want—maybe it’s a sleek lap pool, a resort-style lagoon, or something with a spa and water features. During this phase, you’ll nail down pool shape, size, materials, and any special features like waterfalls or lighting systems.
Your contractor will also conduct a site evaluation to check for any surprises lurking underground—like rock, high water tables, or utility lines that need relocating.
- Permits and Approvals (1-4 Weeks)
Every city has its own set of rules, and some are faster than others. In some areas of Southern California, you might get permit approval in a week. In others, it could take a month or more. Your contractor typically handles this for you, but don’t be surprised if this stage takes longer than expected—it’s often the most variable part of the swimming pool installation timeline.
- Excavation and Structural Work (1-2 Weeks)
Once permits are in hand, the real action starts. Heavy machinery shows up and digs out your pool’s footprint. If your soil cooperates, this phase moves quickly. But if crews hit rock or deal with unstable soil, expect some delays. After excavation comes the steel reinforcement installation—rebar gets carefully positioned to create the structural skeleton of your pool.
- Plumbing, Electrical, and Shell Construction (2-3 Weeks)
Before any concrete gets poured, all the plumbing lines and electrical conduits need to go in. This includes main drains, return lines, skimmers, lighting, and equipment wiring.
Then comes one of the most dramatic days—the gunite or shotcrete application. A specialized crew sprays the concrete mixture over the rebar framework at high pressure, forming the actual shell. The application happens in a single day, but the concrete needs about a week to cure before moving forward.
- Tile, Coping, and Decking (2-3 Weeks)
Now your pool starts looking like a pool. Craftsmen install the waterline tile, set the coping around your pool’s edge, and build out your deck. The pool building duration for this stage depends heavily on your choices. Simple concrete decking goes faster than elaborate stone pavers.
- Interior Finish and Startup (1-2 Weeks)
The final surface inside your pool gets applied—whether that’s traditional plaster, exposed aggregate, or pebble finishes. After the material cures, your pool gets filled with water and the equipment gets balanced. Any final landscaping or cleanup happens during this time.
What Can Speed Up or Slow Down Your Timeline?
Not all pool projects move at the same pace. Weather is the most obvious factor—rain delays concrete work, and extreme temperatures affect curing times. Soil conditions matter too. Rocky terrain or high groundwater tables require extra time and specialized solutions.
Custom features add personality but also time. Infinity edges, grottos, and elaborate water features can extend your pool construction stages by several weeks. Municipal requirements vary wildly too—some cities require multiple inspections, which can add delays if issues pop up.
Contractor availability plays a role as well. The best pool builders book months in advance, especially during peak season. Starting your project during the off-season can sometimes mean faster scheduling.
Planning Your Pool Project
If you’re hoping to swim by summer, start the conversation in late winter or early spring. Want it ready for next year’s pool season? Fall is a great time to begin designing.
The best approach? Start early, stay flexible, and choose a contractor who communicates clearly throughout the process. Your pool is a significant investment in your home and lifestyle. Taking the time to build it right matters more than shaving off a week or two.
Ready to start your pool journey? Explore our design services and let’s create something amazing together.
