Take a moment to imagine this: the sun begins to set, covering your backyard with a golden glow. The soft hum of a water feature dances in the background, while your family lounges poolside, laughter filling the warm evening air. This isn't a vacation, it's home. A custom-built pool by Paladina Pools transforms your outdoor space into a private retreat where memories are made daily and stress fades with every swim.

But before the first splash, most homeowners ask the same question:

"How long will it take to make this dream a reality?"

Planning for the Experience You Deserve

Understanding the project timeline is more than just watching the calendar; it's about setting realistic expectations, avoiding frustration, and ensuring every detail is handled with care. The pool-building process involves several key phases: design consultation, permits, excavation, construction, plumbing and electrical, finishing touches, and finally, the grand reveal. 

While this journey can take several months with traditional contractors, Paladina Pools completes most projects in just 4 to 8 weeks, a fraction of the time many homeowners expect.

Thanks to our all-in-house team, streamlined project management, and company-owned equipment fleet, we eliminate the delays that come from juggling subcontractors or waiting on outside vendors. That means less waiting and more enjoying.

A Pool Is More Than a Luxury—It's a Lifestyle Upgrade

While timelines matter, so do the lasting benefits a custom pool brings to your life. Here's what you gain along the way:

• Health & Wellness at Home: Swimming is one of the best low-impact exercises for cardiovascular health, strength, and flexibility. It's like having your own personal wellness center, steps away.
• Family Bonding & Entertainment: From pool parties to quiet moments with loved ones, your backyard becomes a hub for connection.
• Increased Property Value: A well-designed pool adds significant curb appeal and resale value, especially when it's integrated with beautiful hardscaping and outdoor living features.
• Stress Relief & Mental Escape: There's a reason spas and resorts center around water. Your pool becomes a daily source of calm, relaxation, and rejuvenation.
• Customization That Reflects You: Whether you want a tanning ledge, an infinity edge, mood lighting, or a waterfall, your pool is built to reflect your lifestyle, preferences, and personal style.

Faster Timeline, No Compromise

With Paladina Pools, you don't have to choose between speed and excellence. Our process is engineered to deliver both an efficient timeline and a luxury finish. We manage every detail, communicate clearly at each step, and treat your property like it's our own. That's the Paladina difference.

So, how soon could you be diving into your dream pool? Sooner than you think.

What's the Typical Timeline for a Custom Pool Project?

Custom pool installation is an intricate, multi-phase process. On average, a traditional custom pool project can take anywhere from 8 to 16 weeks to complete, depending on complexity and contractor efficiency. Here's a breakdown of the standard phases:

Design

The design phase typically takes one to two weeks and begins with an initial consultation in which the homeowner discusses their vision, lifestyle needs, and budget. During this period, designers gather site measurements, evaluate sun exposure and existing landscaping, and begin creating preliminary sketches or digital renderings. 

Clients have the opportunity to choose pool shapes, materials, and integrated features like tanning ledges, water features, or spas. Multiple revisions may occur before final approval, ensuring that the pool fits seamlessly into the surrounding landscape and satisfies both functional and aesthetic goals.

Permitting

Next is the permitting phase, which can vary greatly depending on your municipality. Generally, it takes between two and six weeks to receive the necessary approvals. Still, this timeframe depends heavily on how efficient the local permitting office is and whether the site falls under any special zoning rules or HOA restrictions. 

During this step, architectural drawings and engineering plans are submitted, and sometimes additional documents, such as stormwater runoff plans or soil studies, may be requested. Paladina's in-house permitting specialists help fast-track this phase by preparing accurate documentation and maintaining strong relationships with local authorities.

Excavation and Site Preparation

Once permits are secured, the site is prepared, and excavation begins. This phase usually takes about one week but involves more than just digging a hole. Crews first mark out the pool footprint and clear any trees, roots, or obstructions. 

Access paths for heavy equipment are created, and temporary safety barriers may be erected to protect the worksite. Excavation must be precise, as the depth and shape of the dig directly impact the structural integrity of the finished pool. Soil conditions are assessed and adjusted as needed to support the base, and excess soil is either redistributed for grading or hauled away.

Pool Construction

Construction is the most intensive phase, lasting approximately three to six weeks. It includes installing the pool shell, which could be concrete (shotcrete or gunite) or fiberglass, depending on the design. Concrete pools require the installation of steel rebar for reinforcement before the shell is sprayed and shaped, followed by a curing period. Plumbing and electrical systems are laid out to connect the filtration system, pumps, heaters, lighting, and automation controls. 

Once structural work is complete, waterline tiles and interior finishes such as plaster or aggregate are applied. Throughout this phase, inspections are often required to ensure our work complies with all building codes and safety standards.

Finishing Touches

Finally, the finishing touches bring the vision to life. This stage includes the installation of coping (the edge around the pool), decking materials such as pavers or stamped concrete, and any surrounding patios or outdoor living spaces. Landscaping elements are added to enhance privacy and beauty, while accent features such as pergolas, water bowls, or lighting are installed for ambiance and functionality. 

A final cleaning and startup of pool systems ensure everything is operational. The project wraps with a walkthrough and orientation session, during which homeowners are introduced to their new pool and shown how to use and maintain the equipment.

However, many factors influence these stages, including the property's terrain, scope of features, and weather. That's where Paladina Pools makes a difference.

The Paladina Pools Advantage: A Faster, Smoother Build

At Paladina Pools, we don't just build pools; we build confidence in the process. Homeowners deserve a streamlined, stress-free experience, and we've designed every aspect of our operation to deliver just that. While many builders rely heavily on third-party subcontractors, leading to miscommunication, scheduling mishaps, and costly delays, Paladina Pools sets a new standard by keeping everything in-house.

From the moment you approve your design, Paladina's full-time team of specialists handles every step of the journey. Our in-house professionals oversee and execute each phase: conceptual design, permitting, excavation, structural construction, plumbing, electrical work, tile and coping, patio installation, and final detailing. This integrated approach allows for seamless communication, consistent quality, and the kind of agility you can't get with outsourced crews.

Equipment That Keeps Projects Moving

A key reason we can maintain momentum and finish jobs ahead of schedule is our impressive fleet of owned equipment. With 26 company-owned trucks and 15 heavy-duty machines, including six bobcats, three excavators, one loader, one dingo, and one dozer, Paladina Pools is never at the mercy of rental companies or outside availability. 

We can mobilize quickly, stay on-site longer, and keep your project moving without gaps in progress. This operational independence also allows us to adapt in real time to weather conditions, unexpected site challenges, or design changes without missing a beat.

Total Control Over Scheduling

Because we don't rely on subcontractors, we maintain complete control over our construction schedule. Your project won't get pushed back because of someone else's delay. Instead, we manage a well-orchestrated timeline built around your expectations, and we stick to it. This level of coordination means we can confidently give you accurate start and finish dates.

Single Point of Contact = Clear Communication

Working with Paladina means no hand-offs, no third-party confusion, and no chasing down answers. Our clients benefit from having a single, dedicated project coordinator who stays involved from beginning to end. This clear line of communication reduces response times, accelerates decision-making, and provides peace of mind throughout your pool build.

Remarkably Fast Turnaround

Thanks to our unique structure and efficient practices, Paladina completes many full-scale projects—including custom pools, patios, and outdoor living features—in just 4 to 8 weeks. That's significantly faster than the 3–6 month average seen across the industry. You'll be relaxing in your new pool while others are still waiting for excavation to begin.

Step-by-Step Breakdown of a Paladina Pool Project

Phase 1: Design & Planning

Our design process begins with an in-depth look at the client's preferences and the property's potential. Paladina's designers conduct a site analysis, review topography, and explore how different pool shapes and configurations will complement the existing environment. This is followed by digital 3D renderings that help clients visualize the layout and features before construction ever begins. 

Materials such as tile, decking, and coping are selected, and optional add-ons like integrated spas, waterfalls, or sun shelves are discussed. The design team also ensures that all choices align with HOA guidelines and municipal regulations, reducing the chance of costly revisions later in the process.

Phase 2: Permits & Approvals

This phase is often a roadblock for less experienced contractors, but not for Paladina. The in-house permitting team prepares a detailed package of required documents, including structural drawings, site plans, and soil or drainage assessments if needed. 

Because they work closely with local planning departments and inspectors, Paladina's staff knows how to navigate bureaucratic hurdles quickly. They track applications closely and respond swiftly to feedback, helping avoid unnecessary delays.

Phase 3: Site Prep & Excavation

Site preparation begins with securing the work area and mapping out the pool footprint. Paladina's skilled operators use precision equipment to execute excavation with minimal disruption to the surrounding landscape. The team adjusts for any unexpected conditions, such as buried debris or high water tables. 

Soil is compacted or modified as needed to support the pool shell, and the foundation is double-checked to ensure long-term structural integrity.

Phase 4: Pool Construction

Depending on the pool type, construction may involve rebar framework and concrete spraying, or placement of a pre-formed fiberglass shell. Each plumbing line is pressure-tested, and electrical work is inspected for safety and compliance. 

The interior surfaces are completed with high-end finishes chosen by the client, and the equipment pad is assembled with components known for their reliability and performance. Paladina's cohesive team works in sync to prevent downtime between trades.

Phase 5: Patio & Outdoor Living Features

At this stage, the focus shifts beyond the water's edge. Paladina's masons and landscapers install patios, kitchens, fireplaces, retaining walls, and other outdoor features with precision. Materials are carefully matched to create visual harmony across the space. 

Grading and drainage are refined to protect structures from water damage and ensure proper flow. Lighting and automation systems are integrated to enhance convenience and security.

Phase 6: Finishing Touches & Handover

Final inspections confirm that all construction meets or exceeds code. The team then initiates the pool startup process, which includes balancing water chemistry and testing each piece of equipment for performance. 

The client walkthrough is comprehensive and hands-on. Homeowners receive a custom maintenance guide and product manuals, and the team is available for follow-up questions after the handover to ensure a smooth transition.

Factors That Can Extend a Pool Project Timeline

Even with a streamlined process, certain variables can influence the total build time. Weather is one of the most unpredictable and impactful elements. Prolonged rain can saturate the soil and delay excavation, while freezing temperatures can halt concrete pouring or plaster application. Excessive heat waves can also interfere with curing times and material performance. A week of poor weather can easily extend a project by 7 to 14 days, depending on the severity and timing. In especially harsh climates, cumulative delays from multiple weather events may add 3 to 4 weeks.

Permit delays are another common source of disruption. While Paladina's in-house permitting team expedites most applications, some municipalities require lengthy review cycles or may request plan revisions. A simple delay in approval or the need for a variance can add anywhere from 2 to 4 additional weeks, especially if meetings with planning boards or additional documentation are required. Properties located in historic districts or environmentally sensitive zones may face even stricter regulations, potentially extending the permit phase by 4 to 6 weeks.

Design complexity also plays a role. Pools featuring high-end elements like infinity edges, multi-tier patios, sunken seating areas, or integrated spas demand more time and precision during both the design and construction phases. These enhancements require advanced engineering, specialty materials, and extended installation timelines. For example, an infinity edge alone can add up to 1 to 2 weeks due to the need for precise leveling and water management. A fully integrated spa or multi-level entertainment area may add 3 to 4 weeks to the total build.

Client-driven changes can cause unexpected timeline shifts. Requests to switch materials, alter layout, or expand the project scope after construction begins often require returning to the design phase and resubmitting permits. Depending on the extent and timing of these changes, they can add anywhere from 1 to 4 weeks of added time. If the revision involves structural alterations or additional inspections, the delay could be longer.

Site-specific challenges such as poor soil quality, underground rock, or difficult equipment access may also lengthen a project. For instance, unexpected rock removal can add several days to excavation, while tight property lines or limited staging areas may slow the pace of machinery and material deliveries. In extreme cases, resolving these issues could extend the timeline by 1 to 2 weeks. Sites requiring retaining walls, drainage adjustments, or utility relocation may face delays of 2 to 3 additional weeks.

Paladina mitigates many of these risks through detailed site evaluations, clear communication, and maintaining control of the project schedule from start to finish. While some delays are outside of anyone's control, choosing a contractor with the foresight and resources to manage them efficiently makes all the difference.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pool Installations

How long does it usually take to build a custom pool from start to finish?

Most custom pool projects are completed within 8 to 16 weeks. However, Paladina Pools has completed full-scale installations, including patios and outdoor living features, in as little as 4 to 8 weeks thanks to our streamlined, in-house process.

What factors could cause my pool project to take longer than expected?

Weather, permit delays, design changes, complex features, and site challenges (like poor soil or limited access) can all extend a project timeline. In some cases, these issues may add 1 to 4 weeks to your schedule.

Can I make changes to the pool design after the project has started?

Yes, but be aware that mid-project changes often require redesigns or new permits, which can delay progress by 1 to 4 weeks or more, depending on the nature of the change.

Do I need to handle the permits myself?

No. Paladina Pools manages all aspects of the permitting process in-house, ensuring faster turnaround times and fewer administrative headaches for our clients.

What happens if bad weather delays construction?

If extreme weather occurs, Paladina will pause work to ensure safety and quality. We closely monitor forecasts and schedule around conditions to keep your project on track as much as possible.

Can you also build the patio, kitchen, or landscaping around the pool?

Yes. Paladina Pools is a full-service outdoor living contractor. We design and build everything from patios and pergolas to fire pits and outdoor kitchens, ensuring a cohesive, luxury finish.

Why Paladina Is Trusted for Efficient Custom Pool Projects



When it comes to building custom pools, efficiency doesn't mean speed; it means a well-coordinated, high-quality process that delivers exceptional results on time. Paladina Pools is known throughout the region for consistently completing full-scale pool and patio installations within an average of 4 to 8 weeks. This impressive timeline is made possible by the company's structure, where every phase of the project is handled by its own trusted team.

Paladina Pools brings decades of combined experience to each project. From the initial design phase to the final landscaping detail, clients work with seasoned professionals who understand how to streamline the process without cutting corners. By eliminating the need for third-party contractors and coordinating internally across departments, Paladina maintains direct control over every jobsite and schedule. This translates into fewer delays, greater accountability, and better quality control.

Another key advantage is our company-owned equipment and vehicles. With 26 trucks and 15 specialized machines at their disposal, the team can move quickly and efficiently from one phase to the next without waiting on rental availability or outside crews. Whether it's plumbing or installing outdoor kitchens, Paladina has the tools and talent to execute every task in-house.

Clients also appreciate Paladina's open and clear communication. A dedicated project manager ensures that homeowners are kept informed at every milestone and that questions are answered promptly. This transparent approach helps reduce stress and ensures everyone is aligned throughout the duration of the build.

Ultimately, what sets Paladina apart is reliability. At the same time, many pool contractors quote timelines they can't deliver on. Paladina Pools delivers, often faster than expected, while maintaining a commitment to quality craftsmanship and customer satisfaction.

Your Dream Pool Is Closer Than You Think- Call Paladina Pools Today! 

Imagine stepping into your own private oasis, a space that reflects your unique style, fits seamlessly into your lifestyle, and invites relaxation, entertainment, and unforgettable memories. At Paladina Pools, we believe your dream backyard shouldn't be a distant goal. With our streamlined, client-focused approach, it's within each.

When it comes to investing in a custom pool, timeline matters as much as craftsmanship. That's why we've built a process that balances speed with excellence, so you don't have to sacrifice quality for efficiency. From the initial design consultation to the final water test, every phase is thoughtfully managed to stay on schedule and exceed expectations.

Whether you're designing a sleek, modern lap pool, a resort-style retreat with waterfalls and lighting, or a full outdoor living area complete with a kitchen, fire features, and landscaping, Paladina Pools is your top choice among custom pool builders in Pittsburgh. We specialize in creating custom environments that are as functional as they are breathtaking.

Don't wait for the perfect moment to start. Explore our stunning portfolio to see what's possible or connect with our expert team to begin designing your ideal outdoor escape today.