Update date: March 26th 2026
If you’re considering building a pool, consumers often want to know what does the process actually look like. The pool construction process contains carefully coordinated series of steps. Next, each stage ensures your pool is structurally sound, visually stunning, and built to last in Arizona’s desert climate.
At Shasta Pools, we’ve guided homeowners through this journey for more than 60 years. From initial design and final startup, every phase of the process is handled with precision and care. That experience is why Shasta has been recognized as one of the nation’s Top 50 Pool Service Companies and earned multiple honors for design and craftsmanship.
In this guide, we provide the stages of building a pool. We showcase the step-by-step construction process. Also, we explain the timeline and what happens at each phase. So, you can move forward with clarity and excitement about what’s ahead.
Table of Contents
- What Are the Stages of Building a Pool?
- How Long Does It Take to Build a Pool?
- A Process You Can Trust from Start to Finish
What Are the Stages of Building a Pool?
At Shasta Pools, the pool construction process follows a clear and proven sequence. We have refined building a pool over the last 60 years. The goal with each stage is deliver both structural integrity and long-term performance.
Series of Coordinated Phases
“A lot of people think building a pool is just one big step, but it’s really a series of coordinated phases from design and permits to excavation, structural work, and finishing. Each stage builds on the one before it, and when it’s done right, that’s what ensures the pool lasts and performs the way it should.” — Chris Woods, Sales Manager, Shasta Pools (17+ years experience)
Stages of Building a Pool
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Design & Planning
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Engineering & Permitting
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Site Preparation & Layout
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Excavation
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Structural Construction
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Plumbing & Electrical Installation
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Hardscape, Tile & Decking
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Interior Finish
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Startup & Final Preparation
What Happens Before Pool Construction Begins?
Before any excavation starts, your pool project goes through a series of important planning and preparation steps. These steps aren’t part of the construction phase. However, they are critical to ensuring your pool is built efficiently and on schedule.
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Finalizing Your Pool Design
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Site Evaluation
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Engineering Plans
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Permitting
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Scheduling & Preparation
What are the 9 Steps of the Pool Construction Process
Here’s what you can expect during each step of the pool construction process:
Step 1: Pool Layout and Staking - Your pool is staked and the design is laid out.
Step 2: Excavation (Breaking Ground) - Construction officially begins as the ground is excavated and shaped to match your pool design.
Step 3: Plumbing Installation - Plumbing is installed to support water filtration and features.
Step 4: Electrical Preparation - Electrical systems are installed for pumps, lighting, automation, and other features.
Step 5: Steel Reinforcement and Shotcrete Shell - Steel rebar is installed to form the structural framework of your pool. After inspection, shotcrete is applied to create the pool shell.
Step 6: Hardscape and Decking - Decking and patios including fire pits or kitchens are constructed.
Step 7: Tile and Coping Installation - Waterline tile and coping are installed.
Step 8: Interior Finish - The interior surface is applied. This is the PebbleTech product chosen earlier in the process.
Step 9: Startup and Final Preparation - Your pool is filled, equipment is activated, and water chemistry is balanced. The site is cleaned, and your pool is prepared for its first swim.
How Long Does It Take to Build a Pool?
Most in-ground pool projects in Arizona take approximately 8 to 16 weeks once construction begins. The full process from design and permits to completion can range from 3 to 6 months. Your pool’s complexity and site conditions can increase or decrease this timeframe.
At Shasta Pools, our construction steps follow a proven sequence. However, your timeline is effected by several key factors before and during the build.
Multiple Phase Timeline
“A lot of homeowners expect a simple start-to-finish timeline, but there are multiple phases involved design, permits, scheduling, and then construction. Once the construction begins the build moves efficiently through our proven process. Things like approvals, site conditions, and planning are what really shape the overall timeline.” — Chris Woods, Sales Manager, Shasta Pools (17+ years experience)
A Process You Can Trust from Start to Finish
Building a pool can be a stressful process. We want to add clarity to the step-by-step construction process and what to expect along the timeline.
At Shasta Pools, we’ve spent more than 60 years helping Arizona homeowners navigate every phase of pool construction. From the first design conversation, our focus is on craftsmanship and communication.
If you’re thinking about building a pool, start with a design that reflects your space and your lifestyle.
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