Imagine turning your backyard into the envy of the neighborhood—after all, new residential inground pool construction in the U.S. surged at an average annual growth rate of 8.2%, according to the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA) Market Report—so there’s never been a better time to dive into design.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything from defining your pool’s purpose and selecting its ideal size, shape, and style, to setting a realistic budget and gathering design inspiration. You’ll also learn how to evaluate key site conditions—sun exposure, slope, and access—so you can finalize a concept plan that’s both stunning and functional.
Did you know that 67% of Americans swim under pools built to a single safety standard? Getting into the swimming pool building process, you understand that The International Swimming Pool and Spa Code (ISPSC) has been adopted in 30 states, D.C., and Puerto Rico, according to the International Code Council.
Prepping your backyard for a DIY pool can feel like diving into a sea of red tape—but with the right roadmap, you’ll clear every hurdle on time and within budget. In this article, you’ll learn how to research local building codes, apply for all necessary permits, commission surveys and soil tests, clear vegetation, and finalize your site prep. Proper groundwork now protects your schedule and wallet later.
