FAQs About Building a California Residential Pool

luxury SoCal odd-shaped swimming pool design and construction

Here at Pool Icons, we pride ourselves on designing and building world-class residential pools in California. We want you to have confidence through every step of the process, which means making every aspect as crystal clear as the waters you’ll soon be enjoying. 

As trusted California pool builders, we’ve helped hundreds of homeowners across the Golden State with their residential pool design and construction projects. Here are some of the questions we’re frequently asked by customers interested in building a pool for their family.

We hope these FAQs help prepare you for the process of building your own backyard oasis!

How long does it take to build a residential pool in California?

The exact time frames of constructing a pool will vary greatly from one project to the next due to a long list of variables. Some of the issues that may affect your project include, but are not limited to:

  • Size and complexity of the pool design
  • The time of year
  • Soil type and needs for site preparation
  • Local building inspections
  • Materials used for the project

As a rule of thumb, however, a concrete pool can take 6-8 weeks, while a vinyl pool takes roughly 4-6 weeks after the inspections have been completed.

What are the benefits of having a pool?

Swimming pools are seen as the ultimate symbol of luxury and status—not to mention that they keep you cool in the summer months, too, and are a limitless source of entertainment for your family. Before committing to a California residential pool development, though, you need to know that it’s right for you. Some of the most telling benefits of a California residential pool are:

  • It adds to the financial value of the property
  • It provides incalculable value in the form of entertainment for your family and friends
  • It encourages increased exercise and more time spent outside

In short, a luxury swimming pool will add value to your life and property. Our unique, luxurious designs take those rewards to a whole new level.

Should I add a spa while I’m building my pool?

There is no obligation or expectation to have a hot tub or spa incorporated within the pool design. Nonetheless, it is a very popular addition that is selected by a large percentage of homeowners for the following reasons:

  • Even greater financial value
  • It’s perfect for relaxation and stress relief therapy
  • It can additionally support detoxification
  • It makes the whole pool design look and feel more prestigious

The addition of a home spa or hot tub within the overall pool design is an affordable way to inject an extra sense of fun and excitement into the backyard.

You can, of course, add a spa at a later time, as long as there’s room in your yard; but if you’re already considering it, it’s generally a good idea to build out your hot tub at the same time as your swimming pool to cut costs, reduce total construction time, and ensure an aesthetically pleasing design that incorporates both your pool and hot tub.

How hard is it to maintain a pool in California?

Once upon a time, maintenance was the main drawback of having a residential swimming pool. Thanks to modern technology, though, pool maintenance can be completed in as little as 15 minutes per week. Generally, to keep pool maintenance low, it’s recommended that you:

  • Communicate your desired maintenance time to your pool builders so they can recommend low-maintenance options
  • Add automated pH balance and chlorine level checkers
  • Keep a cover on the pool overnight to reduce contaminants

The type of pool sanitation system you employ—chlorine, salt, or UV light—will also affect total maintenance time, as they may require adjusting to keep your pool’s pH balance at a safe level. Occasional servicing may also be required on a less frequent basis.

What are the potential problems a pool could create?

Every homeowner wants to protect their property and assets. As such, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the potential problems. The most likely issues that you could encounter are:

  • Leaks with the pool fittings, like the return jets
  • Vinyl pool liners shifting due to a lack of underground support
  • Cracks with concrete pools and fiberglass pools
  • Unsuitability for your home and backyard
  • The project running over budget or is delayed

The best way to avoid those problems is to work with a diligent team of experienced residential pool specialists. Our experts are here to help! Contact us today for a free pool estimate or more information on building your residential pool.