Building a new pool is an exciting investment, but if you’ve never done it before, understanding the pool building process can feel overwhelming. Many homeowners want clarity on what actually happens from start to finish, and how the overall swimming pool construction process unfolds. Below is a clear, step-by-step overview of the pool building process for most custom pools, so you know exactly what to expect at each stage.
Before any dirt is moved, the project starts on paper. This phase includes:
- Finalizing the pool design, dimensions, and features (spa, sun shelf, steps, etc.)
- Engineering the structural plans
- Securing permits and approvals from the local municipality and HOA (if applicable)
Once permits are issued, construction can officially begin.
The pool is carefully laid out in the yard using the approved plans. Then excavation begins. During this step:
- Heavy equipment digs the pool to the exact shape and depth
- Soil is removed or redistributed on-site
- Elevations are checked to ensure proper depths and transitions
At the end of excavation, you’ll see the full footprint of your future pool.
After digging, the pool’s structural skeleton is built using steel rebar. This step includes:
- Installing rebar throughout the pool floor, walls, steps, benches, and spa
- Forming the pool shape and reinforcing stress points
- Ensuring proper spacing and bonding for strength and longevity
The rebar framework is critical; it’s what gives a concrete pool its strength.
Before concrete is applied, all plumbing and electrical components are installed. This phase typically includes:
- Running plumbing lines for skimmers, drains, returns, water features, and spa jets
- Installing conduit for pool lights and automation
- Pressure testing plumbing lines to ensure there are no leaks
Everything is inspected before moving on to the next step.
This is one of the most exciting milestones in pool construction. During this step:
- Concrete (gunite or shotcrete) is pneumatically applied to the rebar framework.
- Shotcrete comes premixed vs. gunite, so it is typically considered the best option, but at a higher pricepoint.
- The pool shell is shaped and smoothed by hand
- Backfilling takes place, where soil is carefully replaced and compacted around the pool shell to support surrounding decks and hardscapes.
- Steps, benches, sun shelves, and spas take their final form
Once complete, the pool has officially become a solid, permanent structure.
With the shell shot and cured, the pool starts to look more finished. This stage may include:
- Installing waterline tile
- Setting coping around the pool perimeter
- Pouring or installing decking materials (pavers, travertine, concrete, etc.)
These elements define the pool’s style and how it integrates with your outdoor space.
The interior finish is what you see and feel when you’re in the pool.
Here in southwest Florida, pools are typically built with a pebble or aggregate finish.
Once applied, the pool is immediately filled with water to protect the finish while it cures.
Then, the final steps of the proceess may include:
- Installation and activation of the final mechanical components, like pumps, filters, and heaters.
- Equipment insulation to help reduce noise and improve efficiency.
- Final inspections by local authorities
- A "Pool School" walkthrough to explain pool operation and maintenance
A professional start-up ensures everything is operating efficiently and safely, and any questions you may have are answered.
Once your pool is ready, don't forget to schedule ongoing service and maintenance. This offering includes:
- Regular pool cleaning and water balancing
- Filter, pump, heater, and automation system diagnostics
- Leak detection and professional repair
Regular service and maintenance will help ensure your new pool remains in good working condition for years to come.
While every project is unique, these core steps apply to most of our custom pool builds. Working with an experienced pool builder like Classic Pools of Naples ensures each phase is handled correctly, inspections are passed, and your pool is built to last.
If you’re considering a new pool build and want guidance from design through completion, partnering with the right team makes all the difference. Contact us today to begin to process.
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