Pool Construction Overview

Alright alright alright. Time to talk about this pool in our backyard! I am sure everyone reading this knows that we put a pool in our backyard a few weeks ago, so I figured I would talk more about the process and the ins-and-outs that come with building a pool.

I also thought it would be fun to summarize the project with a slide show of pictures. I tried to take 1 photo a day throughout the project, so that I could see how it changed day-to-day. You can find that towards the bottom of this post!

So…..why did we decide to build a pool?

• It’s hot in Houston!
• Seriously, it is very warm here (not complaining!). We can use the pool year-round, which is why we wanted to do it. We knew it would be something we would get a lot of use out of.
  • I would have never built a pool if I was still living in Nebraska or Wisconsin – the season is just too short!

When did we decide to build a pool?

• We decided in the Spring/Summer of 2016 that this is something we really wanted to do. When Alex and I talked it over, we wanted to try to have the project completed by the Summer of 2017.
• From that point forward, we made sure we were putting a huge portion of each paycheck into savings. A pool is a HUGE investment, so if you are thinking of doing a pool soon, start saving!

When did we start talking to pool companies?

• We started our research in the early Fall of 2016 and starting talking to pool companies in late October of 2016. It does take a while to do the research and find a company that you want to work with.

How long does it take to get a design?

• Typically it takes 1-2 weeks to get your initial design back.
  • You will probably go through a few iterations of the design to get it just the way you like. It really just depends how picky you are and how accurate the initial design was.

How long does it take for them to start digging from the moment you commit?

• From the day we put our deposit down, it took about 3 weeks before they started digging.
  • It took 2 weeks to get approval from our HOA.
  • Then, it took another 1-2 weeks before they started digging. It really just depends on their schedule and how many pools they are building.

How long did it take to build?

• Ours took 5 weeks, but it can be anywhere from 3-6 weeks.
  • Our neighbors behind us said their pool took 8 months – I was shocked! I have never heard of such a thing.

How deep is your pool?

• It ranges from 3.5 feet to 6 ft.

How much did it cost?

• Several dollars

What is our favorite pool feature?

• I love the sun shelf. We have 2 ledge lounger chairs we are going to put in the pool – I am excited to get the best of both worlds: laying out and being in the pool!

What is the best part about having a pool?

• I think just having our own little outdoor oasis! I have always loved swimming and being in water, so I love relaxing in the pool. I don’t need much more entertainment than that!
• Also, the hot tub is AMAZING.

What is the worst part about having a pool?

• I am not sure we know yet since it has only been a few weeks, but it will most likely be the maintenance of it. I don’t think it will be too time consuming, but we will have to brush it, check the chemicals, and make sure everything is running properly.

Would I ever build a pool again?

• Probably not unless I lived on several acres of property. Don’t get me wrong, I am SO HAPPY with the end result, but the process of getting there was very very painful. I will spare you all the details.

Also, did you know that you aren’t supposed to heat your pool or spa for 2 weeks after the plaster goes in? I was shocked (and a little bummed)!

Below is a slide show of the pool construction process over the course of 5 weeks. It was really interesting to see how it changed day-to-day.

I am so glad it is done. It was hard to look at our backyard when there was mud, dirt and piping everywhere. What a disaster zone! You just have to keep telling yourself it will be worth it in the end.

Also, if you are considering putting in a pool, I would recommend thinking about all of the “extras” that are not included with the cost of the pool. This stuff can add up really quickly and to be honest, we didn’t even think about some of these things. Be prepared to spend a lot of money after your pool is built.

Extras:

• Putting your grass back in
• Repairing/Replacing your sprinkler system
• Landscaping around your pool
• All pool accessories and furniture (duh)
  • I mention this because this stuff IS NOT cheap.
• Your water and gas bills will increase
• Pool Cleaning Service (unless you do it yourself)

I am sure there other hidden expenses we don’t know about yet, but I thought it would be good to list a few here. I am hoping this helps someone else that may be considering a pool. I wish we would have been given a list like this when we started.

Anyways, the pool is done and we have already been having so much fun! We have several visitors coming this summer, so I am excited for all the pool parties and margaritas.

As always, let me know if you have any questions or want to learn more. I am happy to share more about our experience.

Have a great Wednesday!