Installing an inground pool is a major home improvement project that can enhance your outdoor living space, boost your property value, and provide years of enjoyment. Whether you’re dreaming of summer pool parties, peaceful weekend lounging, or daily laps for fitness, an inground pool transforms your backyard into a personal oasis. But pool installation isn’t as simple as digging a hole and adding water—it involves multiple phases, permits, and planning.
This guide walks you through the step-by-step process of installing an inground pool, including material options, preparation, installation timeline, and expert tips to ensure your project is a success.
Step 1: Choose Your Pool Type
1. Vinyl Liner Pools
- Constructed with a steel or polymer frame and a vinyl liner
- More affordable with flexible designs
- Liner needs to be replaced every 7–10 years
2. Fiberglass Pools
- Pre-molded shells delivered as a single unit
- Quick installation and low maintenance
- Limited to manufacturer’s shape and size options
3. Concrete (Gunite) Pools
- Completely customizable shape and size
- Ideal for large, complex designs
- Takes longer to build and requires more maintenance
Your choice should reflect your budget, design preferences, and long-term maintenance expectations.
Step 2: Planning and Permits
Before breaking ground, there’s significant planning and preparation to complete:
- Site Evaluation: A pool contractor will assess your backyard for size, slope, access, and soil stability.
- Design Selection: Choose the pool shape, size, and features like tanning ledges, stairs, lighting, and built-in spas.
- Permit Acquisition: Most municipalities require building permits for pools, as well as electrical, plumbing, and safety inspections.
Some HOAs or local zoning boards may also have rules regarding fencing, setbacks, or easements. Always check with your local building department or hire a contractor who handles permitting.
Step 3: Excavation
Once planning is complete and permits are approved, excavation begins. This phase involves:
- Marking the pool outline
- Digging the hole to precise depth and shape
- Removing excess soil from the property
Excavation typically takes 1–3 days depending on weather, access, and soil conditions. It’s a loud and messy process, but it’s the first visible sign of transformation.
Step 4: Structural Installation
This phase varies depending on the type of pool being installed:
Vinyl Pools
- Install steel or polymer wall panels
- Secure wall braces and bottom track
- Add a concrete or sand bottom base
- Fit the custom vinyl liner over the structure
Fiberglass Pools
- Set the pre-fabricated shell into the excavated hole using a crane
- Level and plumb the shell with sand or gravel backfill
- Ensure shell is stable and aligned
Concrete Pools
- Construct steel rebar frame for shape and support
- Spray gunite or shotcrete mixture to create the pool shell
- Allow shell to cure for several weeks before finishing
Step 5: Plumbing and Electrical Systems
Your pool needs a complete system for water circulation, filtration, and lighting:
- Install skimmers, drains, return lines, and water features
- Lay down PVC plumbing lines
- Install electrical systems, including pool pumps, heaters, LED lighting, and control panels
- Grounding and bonding for safety compliance
This step ensures your pool will function efficiently and safely once operational.
Step 6: Pool Surround and Decking
Once the pool structure and systems are in place, attention shifts to the surrounding area:
- Backfill and compact soil around the pool
- Install coping (the edge finish between pool and deck)
- Pour or place pool decking (concrete, pavers, natural stone, or wood)
- Add landscaping, fencing, or outdoor features
Your pool deck is where you’ll relax, entertain, and sunbathe—so make it both attractive and functional.
Step 7: Interior Finishing (Concrete Pools Only)
For concrete (gunite or shotcrete) pools, a finishing layer is applied:
- Choose from plaster, pebble, quartz, or tile
- Apply and cure for several days
- Fill pool once finish is complete
Vinyl and fiberglass pools already have their finish built-in and are ready to fill much sooner.
Step 8: Fill, Test, and Balance
Your pool is now ready to be filled with water! Once full:
- Test all plumbing and filtration systems
- Balance the water chemistry (pH, alkalinity, sanitizer levels)
- Check for any leaks or performance issues
- Inspect lighting and water features
A professional startup service may be included by your contractor to help you get started with proper pool care.
Step 9: Safety Measures
Before opening your pool for use, install all required safety measures:
- Fencing with self-closing and self-latching gates
- Alarms on doors or pool areas
- Pool covers (manual or automatic)
- Anti-entrapment drain covers per federal regulations
These features are not just legal requirements—they’re essential for protecting children and pets around water.
Step 10: Pool School and Maintenance Plan
Most contractors offer a “pool school” to show you how to operate and maintain your new pool. You’ll learn:
- How to run the pump and filter system
- How to clean and vacuum the pool
- How to test and adjust water chemistry
- Seasonal opening and closing procedures
Installation Timeline Overview
Pool TypeTypical TimelineVinyl Liner3 to 5 weeksFiberglass1 to 3 weeksConcrete6 to 12+ weeks
Weather, permitting delays, and change orders can affect these timelines. Always ask your contractor for a realistic project schedule.
Final Thoughts
Installing an inground pool is one of the most rewarding projects a homeowner can undertake. From the first excavation to the final splash, it requires planning, patience, and expert workmanship. By choosing the right pool type, working with a reputable contractor, and understanding each phase of the process, you’ll set yourself up for a smooth Fishers pool installation and years of enjoyment.
Whether you’re building a family fun zone, a peaceful retreat, or a stylish outdoor entertainment space, your inground pool can turn your backyard into a dream destination.
