What to Expect During Your Custom Pool Construction Sacramento Project

Building a custom pool in Sacramento is an exciting journey, but many homeowners have questions about what to expect during the construction process. From the initial design to the final reveal, understanding each phase of your custom pool construction in Sacramento can help reduce stress, manage expectations, and ensure a smooth, enjoyable experience.

At Family Time Pools, we specialize in creating custom pools tailored to your lifestyle, backyard space, and design vision. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the entire process—from planning to completion—so you know exactly what to expect when building your dream pool.

1. Initial Consultation and Design Planning

Every custom pool project starts with a detailed consultation. During this stage, our team learns about your goals, budget, and lifestyle to create a pool that fits your unique needs.

Key aspects of the consultation:

• Discussing your vision for the pool and backyard

• Reviewing potential design options, including shapes, sizes, and features

• Considering outdoor living elements like patios, decking, and spas

• Establishing budget parameters and priorities

• Reviewing timelines for construction and seasonal considerations

By the end of this stage, you’ll have a clear understanding of what your custom pool can look like, how it will function, and how it integrates with your Sacramento home.

2. Site Evaluation and Permitting

Before construction begins, your backyard must be evaluated to determine feasibility and identify potential challenges.

Site evaluation includes:

• Measuring your yard and identifying property lines

• Assessing soil conditions and slope

• Evaluating drainage and utility locations

• Checking for obstacles like trees or underground infrastructure

Additionally, building a pool in Sacramento requires proper permits and approvals. Family Time Pools handles all permitting processes, ensuring your project complies with local regulations and safety standards.

3. Excavation and Preparation

Once permits are approved, construction begins with excavation. This phase involves removing soil to create the pool’s shape and footprint.

What to expect during excavation:

• Heavy machinery will be used to dig the pool area

• Temporary fencing or protective barriers may be installed

• Equipment and materials will be staged on-site for construction

• Access paths are prepared to protect your landscaping and minimize disruption

Excavation is a critical step, as it lays the foundation for a structurally sound pool that meets design specifications.

4. Structural and Plumbing Installation

After excavation, the pool’s structural components are installed. This phase includes steel reinforcement, plumbing, and electrical systems.

Key steps:

• Steel rebar is placed to strengthen the pool shell

• Plumbing lines for water circulation, filtration, and jets are installed

• Electrical lines for lighting, pumps, heaters, and automation systems are laid

• Equipment pads are prepared for pumps, filters, and heaters

Family Time Pools ensures all plumbing and electrical systems meet industry standards, providing long-term durability and efficiency.

5. Pool Shell Construction

The next step is creating the pool shell, which can be made from concrete, shotcrete, or gunite depending on your design.

What happens during shell construction:

• Steel-reinforced framework is sprayed or poured with concrete

• The shell is shaped according to your design specifications

• Curves, steps, benches, and tanning ledges are formed

• Initial plumbing and lighting connections are finalized

This is one of the most visually transformative stages, as your pool begins to take shape in your backyard.

6. Surface Finishing and Tile Installation

Once the shell is complete, finishing materials are applied. The pool’s interior surface plays a major role in aesthetics, durability, and water quality.

Options for finishes:

• Plaster for a classic, smooth look

• Pebble aggregate for a natural texture and long-lasting durability

• Glass beads for a vibrant, sparkling appearance

Tile work is also installed along the waterline, steps, and any custom features like spas or waterfalls. Family Time Pools provides a variety of colors, textures, and patterns to complement your design.

7. Decking, Hardscaping, and Landscaping

While the pool itself is being finished, construction of the surrounding outdoor area begins. This includes decking, patios, and landscaping elements.

Typical hardscaping options:

• Pavers, stamped concrete, or travertine decks

• Built-in seating or planters

• Fire pits or outdoor kitchens

• Pathways and steps leading to the pool

Strategically planned landscaping enhances the overall aesthetic, provides privacy, and complements your Sacramento backyard’s natural features.

8. Equipment Setup and Water Fill

Once the pool shell and surrounding features are complete, equipment installation and initial water filling take place.

Equipment installation includes:

• Pumps, filters, and heaters

• Automated pool controls and lighting systems

• Spa jets, waterfalls, or other water features

After installation, the pool is filled with water and circulation begins. At this stage, the Family Time Pools team tests all systems to ensure proper operation.

9. Chemical Balancing and Water Testing

Before your pool is ready to swim in, the water must be properly balanced. This ensures safe, clear water and extends the life of your equipment.

Key steps:

• Adjusting pH, alkalinity, and calcium hardness

• Setting chlorine or saltwater levels

• Testing for proper circulation and filtration efficiency

• Confirming all spa jets, waterfalls, and lighting work correctly

Family Time Pools provides guidance on ongoing maintenance to keep your pool clean, safe, and beautiful year-round.

10. Final Walkthrough and Handover

The final stage of your custom pool construction in Sacramento is a thorough walkthrough with your Family Time Pools project manager. During this visit:

• You’ll inspect every feature and system

• Receive instructions on equipment use and pool care

• Learn maintenance routines for chemicals, cleaning, and equipment

• Ask questions about seasonal care and upgrades

Our goal is to ensure you feel confident and excited about your new pool.

11. Enjoy Your Dream Backyard Oasis

After months of planning, design, and construction, your custom pool is ready to enjoy. Whether it’s hosting family gatherings, relaxing after work, or entertaining friends, your pool becomes the centerpiece of your Sacramento backyard.

A custom pool adds more than beauty—it provides lifestyle benefits, health and wellness opportunities, and increases your property’s value. With Family Time Pools, every step of the process is handled professionally, ensuring a smooth, worry-free construction experience.

Custom Pool Construction in Sacramento

Understanding what to expect during your custom pool construction in Sacramento makes the process enjoyable and stress-free. From the initial consultation and design planning to excavation, structural work, finishing, and final handover, each stage is carefully managed to ensure your vision becomes reality.

Family Time Pools has years of experience helping Sacramento homeowners create pools that are both stunning and functional. If you’re ready to take the first step toward your dream backyard, schedule a free consultation today and discover how easy it is to bring your perfect pool to life.