One common question we get asked is “how long it will take to build my new pool?” The answer to that question depends on a number of different factors which include (but are not limited to):
- The planning process
- The type of pool (concrete or fibreglass for example)
- The time of the year
- Your local authorities
- Other contractors
Let’s take a look at how these factors can influence your pool construction:
The planning process
Planning your new pool can be a lengthy process as there are many decisions to be made:
- What type of pool is best for you?
- What pool shape?
- What size?
- What colour?
- Where will you place the pool?
- If you’re building a new house, should the pool be installed before or after?
- What landscaping needs to happen before or after your pool is installed?
- What kind of pool fencing will work best for you?
It stands to reason that one of the biggest influencing factors of how long it will take before you are swimming in your new pool is the time spent making decisions on your preferences. For some people pool planning can take days and for others it can take many months of discussions and brainstorming.
The thing about swimming pools is that once they are in the ground, they are there forever so it pays to give yourself a comfortable time frame to work within. You can also consider the space available and terrain when purchasing a new property, before you move homes in Sydney North.
The type of pool you choose
The length of time it takes to build your new pool is heavily influenced by the type of product you choose. The difference in construction time between fibreglass and concrete can be huge. One of the benefits of installing a pre-moulded fibreglass pool is that the pool arrives pre-built. Instead of having a construction crew on site for weeks, your pool installation can usually be completed in a number of days.
While one benefit of concrete is that you are not limited by shape or size, it pays to remember that concrete pools with detailed and complex shapes may take as long as 8 weeks or more to build.
Of course, the installation of the pool is only one aspect of the pool area. While it only takes a week or two to install a Compass Pool, on average it takes most households between 3 and six months to feel satisfied that they have completed their pool landscaping. That means that your pool can be up and running while you put the finishing touches in at your own pace.
The process is a bit more complex if you decide on an infinity pool. Placing the pool into your site can be quite straightforward, however, you need to allow more time to built a second tank to allow the water circulation. Pool water features can also add a bit of time to create, depending on their type.
The time of the year
As you can imagine when weather gets warmer more people start to think about swimming pools. In summer time, most pool builders are inundated with enquires from people who want to be swimming in their new pools as soon as possible. If you want to enjoy a lengthy first summer in your newly built pool it is a good idea be talking with your pool builder at the June/July point or even earlier.
Naturally, summer weather lends itself to construction. Many people choose to renovate, build and undertake other major projects when the weather is more stable. Because of this, the demand for mid-summer pool builds does increase dramatically and spaces fill up quickly.
That’s not to say that if you enquire in November (or even December) you will miss out on swimming this season however it does pay to get in early!
Often in January or February people make the mistake of thinking “we’ve missed out on this summer so there’s no rush”. The reality of the situation is that if you plan your pool, install it early and then complete the landscaping in spring, you will have a pool area that is finished and ready for the entire next summer. No mess and no disappointment at a time when you want to be enjoying your pool.
Local authorities
Every new pool that is built needs to be passed by local authorities. Once you have completed your planning process, a development application (or permit submission) will need to be lodged. In most cases this is something that your pool builder will do for you (although separate fees may apply). This application needs to show the detail of the construction process and outline how safety standards will be met.
The processing time for a permit varies from town to town and can also change depending on demand (4-6 weeks is not unusual). As mentioned above, summer is a busy time for construction so processing times are often at the higher end of the guidelines you are given.
The construction of your pool cannot start until approval has been given from your local authority. The earlier your application is submitted the less likely your project will be delayed.
Other contractors
Most pool projects require several different contractors from electricians to concreters, fencers and pavers. The availability of your contractors can also have an effect on how long it takes before you are swimming in your new pool.
From time to time there are elements of a pool installation that will rely on another contractor completing their project first (for example your pumps can not be switched on unless an electrician has established a power supply). Because of this, we like to suggest having a firm plan before the project commences. If everyone knows when to show up and the scheduled timeline of events you don’t run the risk of having your project delayed.
In most cases your pool builder will have a list of preferred contractors whom they trust and work closely with.
Generally speaking, the amount of time it takes to install a Compass Pool is not very long at all and in most situations our authorised Compass pool dealers plan to be onsite for around 10 working days. However, outside influences can effect when the pool can be installed. It is a good idea to speak to your pool builder early so that they can help you ensure that your pool is ready to swim in when you are.
We at Compass Pools Sydney will be very happy to talk to you about your new pool project. Get in touch with us today to start getting answers to your questions!