Pool Construction Process
Our Pool Building Process is composed of 9 distinct steps. Below is a step-by-step summary of what you can expect when building a pool with Westbank Pools. We want to be as transparent as possible to manage your expectation: not to overpromise as others may, but deliver.
How long does it take to build a custom pool?
Usually 12 to 16 weeks after permits are approved, depending on design complexity and weather. Westbank Pools works in 9 steps: site visit, design and engineering; permitting, HOA and materials; the dig; steel and plumbing; the gunite shell; electrical and equipment; tile, coping and decking; interior finish; and start-up with Pool School.
Westbank Pools Building Process
Usually 12 to 16 weeks after permits are approved, depending on design complexity and weather.
On site visit, Design & Engineering
Our process begins with an onsite visit to discuss your ideas, review codes, and assess your backyard. We take measurements, photos, and your property survey to plan around easements, utilities, and tree roots.
Next, our designers and engineers create a custom 3D design of your pool, spa, and outdoor living space, including options like pergolas, kitchens, and fire pits. You’ll review the design and proposal with pricing.
Once the contract is signed, we prepare engineered construction drawings and mark the layout in your backyard. This phase typically takes 1–2 weeks.
Permitting, HOA & Material Selection
Permitting timelines in Central Texas vary. Some are quick, while others require multiple approvals and can cause delays. Our engineers and schedulers work directly with city jurisdictions, handling impervious cover, tree protection, easements, and structural concerns. We also assist with HOA approvals when needed.
If you’re in an unincorporated/ETJ area, delays are minimal. During this time, our team helps finalize your tile, coping, plaster, and appliance selections. This phase can take anywhere from one week to several weeks, depending on your jurisdiction.
The Dig
We begin construction by marking the pool layout from engineered drawings and confirming location and size. After reviewing plats and utility clearances, excavation starts. Though it looks simple, it requires precision and expertise, especially with Central Texas soil and stone.
Once the base is compacted, we set wooden forms outlining the pool and spa. Irrigation may need rerouting, and while the process can get messy, we keep the site as tidy as possible. Excavation, compaction, and forming are typically completed within 1–3 days after final layout approval.
Steel & Plumbing Installation
In Week 2, we install steel reinforcement and plumbing, a process that takes 2–5 days plus inspections if required. Steel rebar is placed to form the pool’s shell, with extra support in high-stress areas and double mesh for complex structures.
The plumbing system is custom-designed for proper water circulation, keeping your pool clean and powering the spa and water features efficiently. All plumbing is permitted and inspected as required.
Shooting Your Pool
Step 5 is the gunite phase, where pressurized concrete is shot and sculpted to form your pool, spa, steps, and features. Our engineers require 10–12” wall thickness for superior durability, exceeding industry standards.
The application takes 1–2 days, followed by a curing period of up to 28 days.
Electrical & Equipment Installation
Next, we install the electrical system, including pumps, filters, heaters, and lighting, all handled by a licensed electrician with proper permits and inspections. A key step is bonding: connecting all electrical and metallic components with a ground wire to ensure safety for people, pets, and equipment. This phase typically takes about two days, plus time for permitting and inspections.
Tile, Coping & Decking
This step brings your design choices to life with waterline tile, pool coping, and decking. Tiles not only enhance beauty but also provide a durable, easy-to-clean finish. Coping, typically stone or concrete, creates a clean edge around the pool, while your deck (available in concrete, wood, stone, travertine, Kool Cote, and more) sets the stage for outdoor living with furniture, fire pits, pergolas, and kitchens.
Tile and coping take about 4–7 days, while decking usually takes 1–2 weeks depending on design and size. Our design team is available to help you select the best finishes.
Interior Finish
The interior finish is applied to the pool walls and floor in your chosen plaster or aggregate style (pebbles, glass beads, quartz, etc.). Craftsmen spray and trowel the surface to achieve the final look. The next day, the pool is acid-washed, polished, and filled with water. This step typically takes 2–3 days.
Pool Start-Up & School
Our start-up technician tests all pool systems (pumps, lights, heater, water features) and programs the equipment, including wireless controls. They clean and brush the pool, balance the water, and begin the chlorine start-up. Within a few days, your pool will be crystal blue.
Next, you’ll receive “Pool School,” where we walk you through equipment, features, phone app controls, and proper care. We also review warranties. At this point, your pool is ready to enjoy!
Honest Reviews from our Customers
Google rating
from 25 reviews
“We had an excellent experience with the entire Westbank Pools team. Even when we had a fairly big rain setback, they took it in stride, waiting for the ground to stabilize and pumping out the excess water to get our project back on schedule. We’ve given their contact info to anyone we know that’s been looking to build a pool. We would definitely use them again”
“Westbank employees are kind, and most of all, responsive. I could count on them to answer me anytime of day. They installed very high end equipment by default and also assisted us with design. We have a very sloped yard, and with their guidance, we found the right spot for it and had drainage installed as well. I would use them again in a heartbeat!”
“Armando and West Bank are excellent - they built our home’s pool in tarrytown and have continued for the last 2 years supporting us through the winter storm of 2020, the early learnings of a pool, and maintaining the electronics and machinery.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the first step in the custom pool process?
It starts with a consultation where we discuss your ideas, budget and site details to create a personalized pool design.
How long does the design phase take?
Typically 2 to 4 weeks, depending on revisions and your approval.
What happens after the design is approved?
We handle permitting and scheduling construction, keeping you informed every step of the way.
How long does the construction phase take?
Usually 12 to 16 weeks after permits are approved, depending on design complexity and weather.
Can I make changes during construction?
Minor changes may be possible early on, but major changes could affect cost and timeline.
How do you ensure quality during construction?
Our experienced team follows strict quality standards and conducts inspections at every stage.
What about pool maintenance after construction?
We provide maintenance guidance at Pool School, where we walk you through your equipment, features, phone app controls and proper care.
Who will manage my project?
A dedicated project manager will be your main point of contact throughout the build.
Will I need permits for my pool?
Yes, and we take care of obtaining all necessary permits for your project.
Ready to transform your outdoor space?
Contact us today to schedule a consultation or learn more about our services. Our expert team will guide you from concept to completion, creating a personalized outdoor retreat.
- 1We call youWe get in touch to hear what you have in mind.
- 2We visit your yardFree consultation: measurements, photos, site and code review.
- 3You see it in 3DA custom 3D design and proposal before you sign anything.
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