How Long Does It Take to Build a Pool? A Timeline from Your Trusted Pool Builder Ponte Vedra

If you’re dreaming of transforming your backyard into a relaxing oasis, one of the first questions you may have is: How long does it take to build a pool? At Southern Elegance Pools — a trusted pool builder Ponte Vedra homeowners count on — we know timeline and transparency matter. That’s why we guide you through each step from design to dive-in day.

While every project is unique, most inground pools take about 10 to 16 weeks to complete. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect.

Phase 1: Design & Permitting (4–8 Weeks)

This stage is where your vision begins to take shape. We collaborate with you to create a custom design—selecting the size, shape, features, and finishes that suit your lifestyle. At Southern Elegance Pools, a pool builder Ponte Vedra families trust for detailed planning, we also manage all permitting requirements with your county and HOA, which can impact the overall timeline.

✅ External Tip: Learn more about pool permit requirements in St. Johns County

Phase 2: Excavation & Steel (1 Week)

Once permits are approved, excavation begins. Within days, your yard starts transforming. We dig the shell and install the steel rebar framework that forms the pool’s structural foundation. It’s a fast and exciting stage that sets everything in motion.

Phase 3: Plumbing, Electrical & Shotcrete (2–3 Weeks)

We install all plumbing and electrical systems needed for your pump, filter, lighting, water features, and spa equipment. Then we apply the shotcrete—a high-strength concrete mixture that’s sprayed onto the steel framework to form the shell of your pool. As a skilled pool builder Ponte Vedra homeowners rely on for quality craftsmanship, we ensure this step is built to last.

✅ External Resource: What is shotcrete? – American Shotcrete Association

Phase 4: Tile, Coping & Decking (2–3 Weeks)

This is where your pool’s personality starts to shine. Whether you’ve chosen sleek white tile, elegant coping, or custom pavers, this phase brings beauty and texture to the design. As a trusted pool builder Ponte Vedra residents recommend for high-end finishes, we take pride in the details.

🖼️ View examples in our Photo Gallery

Phase 5: Interior Finish & Water Fill (1 Week)

After all the hardscaping is complete, we apply your interior finish—such as a smooth quartz, pebble, or plaster surface. Once the finish cures, we fill the pool with water and begin balancing the chemistry so it’s safe and swim-ready.

Phase 6: Startup, Maintenance & Pool School (4 Weeks)

After your pool is filled, our team performs the full system startup. Over the next 4 weeks, we maintain your pool to ensure all equipment is running properly and your water stays perfectly balanced. You can swim during this time while we fine-tune everything. At the end of the 4-week maintenance period, we’ll schedule your Pool School to walk you through how to use your equipment, maintain water chemistry, and keep your pool sparkling year-round.

So, How Long Does It All Take?

From design to swim, most Southern Elegance projects are completed in 10 to 16 weeks, depending on design complexity, permitting, and weather. As a full-service pool builder Ponte Vedra locals turn to for quality and communication, we ensure your project is seamless every step of the way.

📞 Ready to design your dream pool?
Call Southern Elegance Pools at 904-982-6789 or follow us on Instagram @southernelegancepoolsjax to see our latest work.

Let’s make your backyard the best part of your home.