Why You Should Start a Pool Construction Project in the Winter
When it’s cold outside, a swimming pool may be the last thing on your mind - but it’s actually the perfect time to start a pool project. Landscaping and pool installation schedules often fill up fast, so you want to get your pool construction order in before the rush.
If you’ve been considering getting a new pool installed this summer, we’ll explain why it’s better to plan early so you can start your swim season with a splash. Keep reading to explore the timelines of a pool order from conception to installation and see why winter is the best time to start planning your new swimming pool.
Related Content: FAQ: In-Ground Pool Construction Process, Budget, and Timeline
Why You Should Start Planning Your Pool Construction Early
Visualizing your beautiful backyard is easy, but the actual process takes some time. Your designers have to create a blueprint that matches your goals and home, get it approved, start gathering materials, and finish building a project that could be small or large depending on what additions you’d like included. As a result, this process could take a little longer than you expected. By speaking to a swimming pool contractor or landscaping team early, you can get a better idea of timing so your expectations stay realistic.
1. Building a Pool Requires Some Research
There are a lot of different options when it comes to pools, so you’ll want to do your research to find out what you’d like. Some pool installers like Outdoor Innovations have designers on hand to help you come up with ideas, but that won’t always be the case. It can be helpful to understand your goals and backyard needs beforehand—especially if you opt for team that doesn’t do the design work themselves.
Before you start calling for bids, it helps to have an idea of what you want. With so many different options on the market, it can be tough to know where to start. Here are a few things to think about as you begin your research:
- Pool Shape and Backyard Space: Consider what shape of pool you want. Custom, in-ground pools allow for a wide variety of options to make the most out of your space.
- Pool Usage and Design: Think about how you’ll use your pool. If you have young children, you may want to consider a shallow wading pool or a slide as an accessory. If you’re looking to swim laps, a rectangle-shaped pool is probably your best bet. And if you’re simply looking for a place to relax, consider adding a spa or hot tub to the job as well.
- Overall Aesthetics: Consider the overall aesthetics of your swimming pool and how you want it to come across. Do you want it to be a sophisticated space for hosting events? Is your goal to have it be the most fun house on the block? Is lighting a crucial part of your focus? These are all questions you’ll want to consider before deciding who should build your pool construction. Once you decide, your landscaper should align with your goals.
- Pool Design and House Design: Oftentimes, families like a cohesive appearance between their pool design and house design so everything blends together naturally. If you’re hoping for your pool design to match, make sure you tell your swimming pool designers and installers.
Whichever type of pool you choose, be sure to do your research and select a reputable contractor—this will ensure that your pool provides years of enjoyment and looks the way you want it to.
2. Pool Constructions Take Time
You might be wondering, Why is it a good idea to put in your order for a pool now—in the middle of winter? There are a few different answers to this question, but the number one reason is that pool constructions take time to prepare.
Lots of people may have it in their head that a pool can be completed in a couple of days or weeks. However, what most people don’t account for is the planning it takes, other customers, and the project scope.
While you may think it’s “just a pool,” the reality is that it’s a pool plus everything else you’d like in your project. Most times—if not every time—, it’s a pool plus a new deck, sidewalk and/or patio, fire pit, waterfall features, gazebo, pool house, etc. It’s rarely just the pool—and these things take time—especially when done the right way.
Whether you have a bunch of unique ideas for your backyard creation or you’re just now thinking it’s a good idea, now is the time to get started so everything is ready come pool season.
Need some ideas for inspiration? Check out our backyard swimming pool gallery.
How Long Do Pool Installations Take?
The time it takes a landscaping company to finish a pool installation depends on how big the project scope is, how many projects they have under their belt, how many people are available to work on the project, ordering times for materials, and more. It’s important to keep in mind that a project could take a mere couple of weeks (if your project is small, you’re excluding the design time it takes, and you reach out early), but it could also take up to three months or more if you have a large ask or there are a lot of clients ahead of you. Most of the time, an average project will take 8 to 12 weeks to complete, but every project is different—so ask early so you and your pool installer are on the same page.
What’s the Timeline Breakdown for Pool Projects?
So, what’s the timeline breakdown for pool projects? Depending on how much back and forth you have with your landscapers, finalizing the design can take 2 weeks to a month. There are many permits to acquire before breaking ground, and it typically takes 1 to 3 months to get them. Then the final phase, construction, can last 1 to 6 months depending on how in-depth your project is and the weather. Booking ahead means that the design and prep stage can be taken care of during the off season rather than when you’re ready to swim.
When is the Best Time to Get a Pool Quote?
Many landscaping or pool companies have extensive lead times for pool installation, so if you want to be swimming next summer, contact them during the off season. Before making the call, you’ll want to do your research. Get a few different bids and ask questions about their process to make sure you’re getting a quality pool from a reputable company. If you’ve found a company that matches your budget and needs, go ahead and put in your order today. Your summer self will thank you!
Ready to start designing your swimming pool for this summer? Contact our team at Outdoor Innovations Landscaping to get started.
Outdoor Innovations Landscaping creates elevated backyards for homeowners in Minnesota. From in-ground pools to luxurious grilling stations to outdoor living rooms, we do it all. Explore our past projects and get a quote online to make your dream backyard a reality.
