Why Building a Pool Takes 6 Weeks — And Why That’s a Good Thing

Simone
Jul 14
2 min read

At GW Oliver, we’re known for delivering high-end, custom pools with an efficient, streamlined build process. One of the most common questions we get is:“Why does it take about six weeks to build a pool?”

The short answer? Because we do it right.

The slightly longer answer? Gunite pools require time to cure properly—at least 28 days—and we use that time wisely to complete surrounding work so the project keeps moving forward.

Why the 28-Day Gunite Cure Matters

Gunite is the strong, steel-reinforced concrete shell of your pool. Once applied, it doesn’t just dry—it cures. This is a chemical process that slowly strengthens the shell, ensuring it performs well for decades.

Rushing this phase can cause surface cracking or structural problems later. That’s why we give the shell the full 28 days to cure, even as other aspects of your project continue around it.

Your Pool Build: A Week-by-Week Breakdown

Here’s how a typical 6-week pool build at GW Oliver unfolds:

Week 1 – Excavation & Gunite

Excavate the pool and form the structure
Install rebar
Apply gunite shell

Week 2 – Tile & Coping

Begin installing pool tile and coping around the edge
Shell begins curing process

Week 3 – Drainage & Deck Sub-Slab

Install drainage infrastructure
Pour concrete sub-slab for decking areas

Week 4 – Equipment Set & Feature Construction

Set pool equipment
Begin finish work on decking
Build water feature walls, fire features, and any other vertical elements

Week 5 – Final Utilities & Prep for Finish

Wire pool equipment and make gas connections
Install backflow preventers
Final grading and surface prep for interior finish

Week 6 – Plaster & Pool Fill

Apply interior finish (plaster, pebble, etc.)
Fill the pool and balance the water
Final walkthrough and pool start-up

Fast Doesn’t Always Mean Smart—But We Do Both

At GW Oliver, we’ve refined our process over decades. While some builders take shortcuts or skip curing time, we prioritize long-term performance. Our 6-week timeline allows us to maintain the highest quality standards without unnecessary delays.

We don’t just build pools—we build beautiful, lasting outdoor experiences.

Pools Are a Major Investment—Choose a Builder Who Gets It Right

A swimming pool is more than a backyard upgrade—it's a significant investment in your home, lifestyle, and family time. Whether you’re planning to entertain, relax, or create a space for your kids to make lifelong memories, a pool should be built to last.

That’s why choosing the right builder matters.You need someone who understands the technical details of gunite application, proper curing times, equipment sizing, drainage, and finish work. At GW Oliver, we don’t just build pools—we engineer and craft outdoor spaces with the same care and precision you’d expect in the construction of your home.

We’ve spent over 20 years refining our process to deliver both beauty and performance. When corners are cut or timelines are rushed, those mistakes may not show up right away—but they almost always lead to issues down the road.