How Long Does It Really Take to Build an Inground Gunite Pool?

Ask a pool builder how long it takes to build a pool, and you’ll usually hear a number of weeks. At Arista, a typical gunite pool takes about 6 to 8 weeks from start to finish, depending on weather and the features involved. That’s accurate, but it’s only part of the story.

Those 6 to 8 weeks describe construction. The full journey from “we want a pool” to “we’re swimming” also includes planning and permitting, and those phases can take longer than the build itself. If you’re hoping to swim in 2027, understanding the difference is important.

The Three Phases of a Pool Project

Think of building a pool like planning a wedding. The ceremony takes an afternoon, but nobody plans a wedding in an afternoon. The venue, the guest list, the permits for the tent and the vendor schedule all come first. A pool works the same way.

Phase 1: Planning and Design

This is where your pool takes shape. It includes the consultation, a look at your property, the design, feature choices and material selections.

How long it takes depends mostly on you. Some homeowners know exactly what they want and move quickly. Others like to take their time, compare options and revise the design. Both approaches are fine. At Arista, free design consultations with 3-D renderings help you see the finished pool and make decisions with confidence.

Phase 2: Permitting

Once the design is final, the permit application can be submitted to your township. This is the phase homeowners most often underestimate. Some townships approve permits quickly. Others can take months, depending on their review process, zoning requirements and workload.

Permitting is largely out of your control and ours, which is exactly why starting early matters. A permit submitted in winter is much more likely to be approved in time for spring construction.

Phase 3: Construction

This is where those 6 to 8 weeks come in. With the design finished and permits in hand, construction moves through a series of steps.

What Happens During the 6 to 8 Weeks

Layout and Excavation

The pool shape is flagged out in your yard so you can see exactly where it will sit. Elevations are set, topsoil is stripped and stockpiled, and the pool is excavated.

Groundwork, Plumbing and Steel

A stone base goes in to help manage groundwater. Plumbing and equipment are installed and pressure tested, and the pool is caged in steel rebar.

Gunite

The gunite shell is shot over the steel framework. The shell then needs to be kept wet for several days as it cures, which is an important step that can’t be rushed.

Tile, Coping and Decking

Waterline tile and coping are installed, followed by the deck and patio surfaces.

Plaster and Fill

The interior finish is hand-troweled, and the pool is filled with water.

What Can Change the Timeline

Weather is the biggest factor. Heavy rain can pause excavation or gunite work, and cold temperatures affect curing and finishes. Complex features like extensive stonework, raised walls or large water features can also add time. Inspections required by your township can add short pauses between stages.

Why Speed Isn’t the Only Goal

A fast build is great, but a well-built pool matters more. Steps like curing the gunite, pressure testing plumbing and preparing the base for freeze and thaw cycles are what give a pool decades of life. We don’t skip them to shave off a few days.

Planning for a 2027 Swim Season

Here’s the takeaway. If you want to swim by next summer, don’t just count the 6 to 8 weeks of construction. Add the time for design and the time for permits. For most homeowners, that means starting in the fall or winter.

Built by Gunite Specialists

Arista Pool & Spa only builds inground gunite pools. We build them because they are the most durable, most customizable and longest-lasting pools available. You can see every step on our gunite pool construction process page.

Start Your Timeline Today

The sooner you start, the sooner you swim. We offer free estimates and we’ll help you map out a realistic timeline for your project. Contact Us today to schedule your time or to visit our state-of-the-art showroom.