---

🏗️ How to Build Your Own Pool and Save Thousands of Dollars

---

🏊♂️ Overview

Building your own swimming pool might sound like a big project — but with the right planning, equipment, and a little guidance, you can save tens of thousands of dollars compared to hiring a traditional pool builder.

The owner-builder method puts you in control: you coordinate the project, hire the subcontractors, and source your own equipment. The result? A custom pool built to your exact preferences — at a fraction of the cost.

Whether you’re installing a fiberglass, vinyl, or gunite pool, this guide will walk you through the essentials of DIY pool construction and how to make smart, budget-saving decisions along the way.

---

🧱 Key Steps to Building Your Own Pool

1. Design Your Pool Plan

Start with a detailed layout of your dream pool — size, shape, depth, and location. Many online pool design services or owner-builder pool companies (like Sierra Fiberglass or DIY Pools & Spas) will help you with professional blueprints and permitting documents.

Tip: Keep your design simple. Custom curves and water features look amazing but can dramatically increase cost and labor time.

---

2. Obtain Necessary Permits

Every city and county has different building requirements for pools. You’ll need permits for:

• Excavation and construction

• Electrical and plumbing work

• Safety fencing and barriers

Contact your local building department early to confirm what’s required. It’s much cheaper to plan correctly than to fix issues later.

---

3. Source Your Equipment Wisely

The smartest way to save money as an owner-builder is buying your equipment directly instead of paying builder markups.

Here are some essentials you can source from trusted suppliers like Pool Supply Depot:

• Pump & Filter System: Pentair IntelliFlo3 VSF 011076 (energy-efficient and smart-connected)

• Salt System: Pentair iChlor or IntelliChlor

• Heater: Pentair MasterTemp or UltraTemp Heat Pump

• Control System: Pentair IntelliCenter or EasyTouch

• Dummy Cell: PSD Bypass/Dummy Cell for off-season protection

By purchasing these components yourself, you often save 20–40% over retail builder pricing.

---

4. Hire Specialized Subcontractors

Instead of hiring a general contractor, you can directly hire specialists for:

• Excavation

• Steel/rebar

• Gunite or fiberglass installation

• Plumbing and electrical

• Tile, coping, and decking

Each trade is responsible for a specific stage of the project — you just coordinate their schedule. Websites like HomeAdvisor or Thumbtack can help you find qualified, licensed subcontractors.

---

5. Schedule and Oversee Each Phase

A typical DIY pool build follows this order:

1. Layout & Dig

2. Steel/Rebar & Plumbing

3. Electrical Rough-In

4. Gunite/Shell Installation

5. Tile & Coping

6. Equipment Pad Setup

7. Decking & Finish

8. Final Inspection & Fill

As the owner-builder, you’ll check that each trade completes their work correctly before the next step starts. Many DIY pool kit companies provide on-call project support if you have questions during installation.

---

6. Add Finishing Touches

Once your pool is filled and circulating, it’s time for the fun stuff:

• Install lighting and automation

• Balance water chemistry

• Landscape the area

• Add furniture, fencing, or a safety cover

The best part? You’ll have a fully customized pool built under your direction — and likely for 30–50% less than what a full-service builder would charge.

---

💰 How Much Can You Save?

That’s a potential savings of $20,000–$40,000 — just by managing the process yourself.

---

🧠 Customer-Facing Q&A

Q: Can I really build a pool without a contractor?
A: Yes! Many states allow homeowners to act as their own general contractor under “owner-builder” laws. You’ll hire licensed subs for electrical and plumbing work but oversee the overall project yourself.

Q: How long does a DIY pool take to complete?
A: On average, 8–12 weeks depending on weather, materials, and subcontractor scheduling.

Q: What type of pool is easiest for DIY builders?
A: Fiberglass pool shells are the easiest — they’re pre-molded and delivered ready to install. Vinyl liners are next. Gunite (concrete) pools require more coordination and specialized crews.

Q: Can I still get a warranty on my equipment?
A: Yes — as long as your equipment is purchased from an authorized retailer (like Pool Supply Depot) and installed per manufacturer guidelines.

Q: Is it worth the time investment?
A: Absolutely. You’ll save tens of thousands, understand every part of your pool system, and gain pride in completing a major project yourself.

---

🏁 Conclusion

Building your own pool isn’t just about saving money — it’s about taking control of your project, choosing high-quality components, and creating a backyard oasis built exactly the way you want it.

By acting as your own builder, purchasing your equipment directly, and hiring skilled subcontractors, you can easily save $20,000–$40,000 while ending up with a professional-grade pool system.

If you’re ready to take the next step, check out our line of Pentair equipment, salt systems, and plumbing kits at Pool Supply Depot — everything you need to start building smarter and saving bigger.