You’re excited about the plans for a new backyard pool, and most homeowners don’t want to wait until they can take a dip in the privacy of their own yard. Keep in mind that the construction timeline is only one part of this schedule. If you are wondering how long does it take to build a custom pool in DFW, then you also need to account for everything from the first design conversation to the permit process, city approvals, curing time, and potential weather delays.
Our team at Mid City Custom Pools is here to help every step of the way. Rest assured knowing that we not only offer efficient services, but our skilled crews are proactive about ensuring the best quality results for your new swimming pool. Contact us today for a no-obligation consultation to learn more about your options for installing a new swimming pool in your yard.
The Two Timelines Every DFW Homeowner Needs to Understand
There are two things that need to be considered when discussing your custom pool construction timeline in Texas:
- Construction Timeline: This schedule answers how long does it take to build a pool from start to finish, starting with excavation and ending with the finished product. The construction timeline is when the crews are on-site, and you can see that work is happening in your yard. It typically takes between 8-12 weeks for a custom swimming pool.
- Total Project Timeline: On the other hand, the total project timeline is much longer than the construction timeline. This timeline includes the design phases, as well as the permitting process and HOA approvals (if needed). When you are working with a skilled team, such as Mid City Custom Pools, then you can expect around 4-6 months from design ideation to the final handoff.
Phase-by-Phase Custom Pool Construction Timeline in DFW
This phase-by-phase breakdown can help you manage expectations so that you know when your family will be able to start swimming in your new pool:
- Design and Permits (1-6 Weeks): We will meet to learn more about your preferences, then finalize all of the feature decisions for the design. These details need to be locked into place before the permitting process to avoid unnecessary time and cost. Most municipalities in the DFW area will issue permits in just a few weeks, but it can sometimes take up to 6 weeks. If revisions are needed, then it will extend this timeline.
- Pool Excavation (1-5 Days): Next, you are wondering how long does it take to excavate a pool? Once it’s time to complete the excavation, we can usually finish this step in less than a week. The actual excavation timeline depends on the size of the pool and the overall conditions of the site.
- Steel, Plumbing, Electrical, and Gunite (1-4 Weeks): Now it’s time to lay down the steel rebar and pass city inspections so the gunite can be applied. Once these steps are finished, there is a mandatory waiting period of 28 days so that the materials can cure. The plumbing and electrical can often be run at the same time. The biggest delays in this phase are usually due to issues with scheduling the inspections.
- Tile, Coping, Decking, and Equipment (4-6 Weeks): This is where the finishing touches start to take shape. While the gunite is curing, we can keep the schedule moving by working on the surrounding tile and deck. This is also the ideal period to install equipment such as the pump, filter, heater, and automation systems.
- Pool Plastering and Curing (4-6 Weeks): Once the plaster is in place, you need around 28 days of carefully managed water chemistry to ensure that it cures correctly. If this window of time is mismanaged, then it could cause permanent damage to your pool’s finish.
Delays That Could Impact Your Pool Build Timeline
While our experienced team takes a proactive approach to keep your pool installation on schedule, there are some unavoidable delays that could impact the timeline. So, when you are asking how long does it take to build a pool, it’s important to understand that potential delays could push back the finish date (and many of these things are out of our control).
The most common delays for a pool installation schedule include:
- Weather: Hailstorms, rain, and freezing temperatures can have an impact on excavation and curing timelines.
- Clay Soil: If additional soil prep is necessary, then it might trigger engineering reviews that require additional time.
- HOA and Permit Delays: We can’t move forward with construction if the necessary permits and HOA approvals haven’t come through yet. We recommend a buffer time of an extra 2-4 weeks, especially if your home is in an HOA community.
- Change Orders: The goal is to finalize your design and plans before breaking ground. If there are any change requests once construction starts, then you can expect delays.
- Material Lead Times: We can often get ahead of material sourcing by planning ahead. These delays are most common when you are ordering specialty tile, imported coping, or custom equipment.
FAQs
How long does it take to build a pool from start to finish in DFW?
Most of the time, we can complete the full process in 4-6 months. The actual construction takes around 8-12 weeks, with additional time needed for design, permits, and approvals.
What time of year is best to build a pool in DFW?
We offer pool installation services throughout the year. The best time to build a pool is usually in the fall season because the permit offices aren’t as busy and the crews are more available. Plus, your new swimming pool will be ready for the upcoming summer season.
Why DFW Homeowners Have Trusted Mid City Custom Pools Since 1973
You deserve to work with a reputable pool installation team to ensure quality results for your new swimming pool. At Mid City Custom Pools, we have been supporting families throughout the DFW area for decades, offering local knowledge and connections to ensure that your project stays on track.
For more information about available services, contact Mid City Custom Pools today.