A team of four skilled workers can set up a fiberglass pool shell in just three days. This makes it one of the quickest ways to build a pool without hiring a construction contractor. Most Florida homeowners still prefer concrete pools. But the shortage of qualified workers and tight schedules have made self-managed pool projects more appealing.
You can save a lot of money by taking charge of your inground pool installation. The options are plenty. You might want to think about a DIY-friendly fiberglass shell shipped right to your door. Or you could learn about budget-friendly installation methods by picking specific contractors for different jobs. Both approaches help you build your dream pool without depending on a full-service contractor.
Let me show you the best way to direct your pool construction project. We’ll cover everything from picking the right type of pool to working with contractors. You’ll discover which parts of the installation you can handle yourself and the right time to bring in experts for specific jobs.
Why Managing Your Own Pool Project Makes Sense
“Overall, installing your own inground fiberglass pool can save you between 6 and 10 thousand dollars. However, if something goes wrong, you might end up spending a lot more trying to fix it.” — River Pools and Spas, Pool manufacturing and installation company
Many homeowners now think over alternatives to hiring a pool construction contractor. Pool prices keep climbing, and homeowners want more control over their backyard projects. They’re finding benefits in managing their own pool installations. Let’s look at why this makes sense both financially and practically for smart homeowners.
The rising cost of full-service pool contractors
The swimming pool market has seen huge price increases. Inground pool costs have risen about 30% since 2021. Higher borrowing costs, increased wages for skilled construction workers, and supply chain challenges drive this trend.
Swimming pool companies typically work with profit margins of 15% to 18%. People often think professional builders double the costs of subcontractors. They don’t, but their markup adds a lot to your total investment.
PVC plastic, fiberglass, concrete, and steel shortages have pushed prices higher. These materials cost more now, which makes professionally installed pools more expensive. Budget-conscious homeowners see self-managed projects as a better choice.
Control over timeline and decision-making
Money isn’t the only factor. Managing your own pool project gives you complete control. You’ll have direct influence over communication, progress updates, and subcontractor scheduling as the project owner. This hands-on approach keeps your vision intact throughout the build.
You can schedule subcontractors based on your timeline. This means faster progress when crews are ready and available. You won’t depend on a pool company’s fixed schedules. You can adjust plans as needed.
Clear decisions early in the process speed up construction. Your detailed construction schedule will set clear milestones and deadlines. This optimizes resources and prevents delays that get pricey.
Potential savings of 20-30% on total project cost
The biggest draw? You can save a lot of money by managing your own inground pool install. Homeowners who manage their pool projects save 30-40% on total costs. Owner-builders save 8-15% compared to licensed companies.
DIY experts report saving at least 20% with their cheapest pool installation methods. In real numbers, you could save $6,000 to $10,000. The exact amount depends on your project’s details and materials.
These savings come from three main areas:
- You buy materials directly and avoid builder markups
- You pick your subcontractors and negotiate rates
- You can do some tasks yourself
Note that surprise material costs, subcontractor price changes, or mistakes might cost extra. Smart owner-builders weigh potential savings against the challenge of learning pool management.
There are DIY pool construction programs available that make the process significantly easier. The most well known one with the best reviews is DIY Pools and Spas. This plan streamlines the process and provides personalized guidance at each step.
Choosing the Right Pool Type for Owner-Management
Pool types differ in their suitability for DIY installation projects. Materials, construction complexity, and upkeep needs vary a lot. These factors affect your success and satisfaction down the road. Here’s a look at your options from simplest to most complex.
Fiberglass shells: The simplest DIY-friendly option
Fiberglass pools are the most available choice for DIY installations. These pre-fabricated shells come ready to install. The process is straightforward – you just need to “dig a hole and set it in”. Fiberglass pools work perfectly for DIY projects if you have simple excavation and plumbing experience.
Pool manufacturers often help with installation and sometimes send crews on setup day. DIY fiberglass pool installations save between $6,000-$10,000 compared to professional work.
Common challenges include:
- Getting the pool level (most frequent issue)[102]
- Keeping straight walls properly arranged[102]
- Setting aside enough time for proper setup
Vinyl liner pools: Moderate difficulty but doable
Vinyl liner pools sit right in the middle – they’re tougher than fiberglass but still manageable for DIY. These pools have the lowest original cost among inground options. This makes them attractive to budget-conscious homeowners.
In spite of that, vinyl installation needs prior construction experience. You must build wall panels, set elevations, pour concrete collars, and create smooth bottom floors. Vinyl liners need replacement every 5-9 years at about $4,000 per replacement. This creates ongoing maintenance costs to think about.
Concrete pools: Why you should skip DIY
Concrete pools let you customize everything but come with big drawbacks for DIY. Professional crews handle these pools almost exclusively. They need specialized work like shotcrete/gunite application, waterproofing, and plaster installation.
So concrete pools need much more maintenance. They use more chemicals and require frequent brushing to curb algae growth. You’ll also add lots of acid to balance pH levels. Replastering costs between $12,000-$20,000 every 10-15 years. This makes concrete the priciest long-term option despite lasting longer.
Creating Your Pool Installation Master Plan
A successful pool project starts with detailed planning before construction begins. After choosing your ideal pool type, you need a detailed master plan. This plan ensures your inground pool installation goes smoothly.
Designing your pool and getting permits
Your project starts with a detailed site plan drawn to scale (usually 1/8 inch = 1 ft). This plan shows property lines, pool dimensions, and special features. You’ll use this blueprint as your guide throughout the project. The steps before excavation include:
- A land survey determines property boundaries and identifies underground utilities
- Local building codes and zoning requirements define setbacks (minimum distances from property lines)
- Written HOA approval where needed
Your local municipality will need permits for pools. Application packages should include construction plans, site plans, dimensions, and relevant engineering reports. Permit approval can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months, so plan accordingly.
Breaking down the project into manageable phases
Smart owner-builders split their projects into distinct phases instead of tackling everything at once:
- Layout and excavation: Marking pool dimensions on ground, establishing elevation
- Structural framework: Installing plumbing, electrical work, steel reinforcement
- Shell construction: Applying concrete/gunite or placing fiberglass shell
- Finishing work: Installing tile, coping, decking, equipment setup
Each phase needs specific tools and expertise. This breakdown helps you decide where you’ll need professional help versus DIY work.
Creating a realistic timeline
Pool projects typically take 8 to 10 weeks from start to finish. Your timeline should account for weather delays, inspection scheduling, and material delivery times. Here’s a typical breakdown:
- Permit approval: 2-3 weeks average
- Excavation: 1-2 days
- Structural work: 1-2 weeks
- Curing time: 28 days for concrete
- Finishing touches: 1-2 weeks
Budgeting for materials, equipment, and subcontractors
Your budget needs to cover more than just the pool:
- Set aside 10-15% for unexpected expenses
- Essential utilities cost (electrical, gas lines, water)
- Safety requirements like fencing (often required by law)
- Equipment rental costs if you handle excavation yourself
DIY pool kits offer another option. These kits come with detailed installation manuals and need only additional PVC piping and concrete to finish the job. They provide a cost-effective solution while giving you all the guidance you need.
How to Hire and Manage Pool Subcontractors
“Our personal advice is to let the experts install the pool for you. It costs more, but the risks are lower, the project gets done faster, and you have experts on hand to make the right decisions the first time around.” — River Pools and Spas, Pool manufacturing and installation company
Smart pool owner-builders know that some aspects of an inground pool installation just need professional expertise, even when looking for alternatives to hiring a pool construction contractor. The right timing to bring in specialists can make all the difference between a smooth project and getting hit with pricey mistakes.
Identifying which tasks require professionals
Licensed electricians must handle all pool electrical work, including wiring equipment and installing automation systems. Pool circulation systems typically need specialized plumbing expertise. Fiberglass pools’ vital “set day” usually needs manufacturer assistance when the shell arrives to ensure proper installation.
Finding and vetting qualified subcontractors
Your search for qualified pool subcontractors should start with solid research. Here are some reliable sources:
- Local pool builder associations and chambers of commerce
- Referrals from other contractors, especially excavation specialists
- Online platforms specifically designed for pool projects
The next step involves proper vetting. Make sure contractors are licensed, bonded, and insured. Reach out to at least 5 previous clients and ask them: “Would you use this builder again?” and “How did they handle problems?”. Check their online reputation, looking for at least a 5:1 ratio of positive to negative reviews.
Managing the work schedule effectively
After assembling your team, create a detailed schedule showing which subcontractors can work at the same time and which can’t. Let everyone know their start times clearly and set expectations for delay notifications. Your subcontractors should understand their responsibilities to avoid finger-pointing when problems come up.
Quality control and problem-solving
Quality monitoring needs your hands-on involvement. Set clear quality protocols and acceptance criteria for each phase. Regular inspections throughout construction help catch issues before they become major headaches. Keeping records of all changes, inspections, and communication creates accountability and helps solve disputes quickly.
Note that without long-term relationships, you’re basically “disposable” to subcontractors who prioritize their regular builder clients. So, foster professional respect through quick payments and clear communication to keep quality service throughout your project.
Conclusion
A pool project needs careful planning, research, and oversight. Building your own pool might seem overwhelming at first. Our complete breakdown shows that many homeowners can handle it, particularly with fiberglass pools.
Homeowners who manage their pool projects save $6,000 to $10,000 compared to full-service contractors. These savings come when you buy materials directly, hire specific subcontractors, and get involved hands-on where you can.
Your success depends on smart decisions about what you can do yourself and what needs professional expertise. Leave electrical work, complex plumbing, and vital installation steps to professionals. You can handle project management and simpler tasks yourself effectively.
A full picture of the project is your best friend. Take time to review your skills, available time, and how comfortable you are with managing construction before you start. Your well-laid-out, owner-managed pool installation can give you great results and keep more money in your wallet.
FAQs
Q1. How long does it typically take to build an inground pool? On average, building an inground pool takes 8 to 10 weeks from start to finish. However, it’s important to note that various factors like weather delays, permit approvals, and unexpected issues can extend this timeline significantly. Many homeowners report their pool projects taking several months longer than initially estimated.
Q2. What are some key considerations for pool placement and design? Important factors include proper drainage, equipment location, lighting placement, and overall layout. Consider the number of lights, jets, and returns you want. Also, think about how the pool will integrate with your existing landscape and outdoor living areas. It’s crucial to plan for adequate decking space and potentially a fence or safety features as required by local codes.
Q3. How can I ensure quality work during the pool construction process? Stay actively involved throughout the project. Take photos of each construction phase, especially before areas are covered up. Regularly inspect the work being done and don’t hesitate to ask questions or raise concerns. Make sure all changes or agreements are documented in writing. Consider hiring an independent inspector at key stages of the build to verify that work meets code and quality standards.
Q4. What are some unexpected costs I should budget for when building a pool? Beyond the pool itself, budget for landscaping repairs, potential upgrades to your home’s electrical system, fencing, additional concrete work, and pool accessories. It’s wise to set aside a contingency fund of 10-15% of the total project cost for unexpected expenses. Also, factor in ongoing costs like increased utility bills, regular maintenance, and eventual equipment replacements.
Q5. Should I choose a saltwater or traditional chlorine system for my new pool? Both systems have pros and cons. Saltwater systems generally require less daily maintenance and provide softer-feeling water, but they have higher upfront costs and can be corrosive to certain pool materials over time. Traditional chlorine systems are less expensive initially but require more frequent chemical adjustments. Consider factors like your budget, desired maintenance level, and the compatibility of your chosen pool materials with each system before deciding.
