The In-Ground Pool Planning Guide
In this local guide, we share everything worth knowing when planning a dream pool.
Thinking about installing an in-ground pool? Start by planning the entire backyard, not just the pool. When you plan the full project from the beginning, you make better decisions, avoid costly surprises, and end up with a backyard that feels intentional.
Start by planning your entire backyard, not just the pool. That is one of the smartest things a homeowner can do.
1. Why planning your pool early matters
A pool project involves much more than choosing a shape and breaking ground. Before construction begins, there are important decisions that affect the layout, budget, timeline, and finished look of the yard.
Planning early gives you more time to:
Define your goals
Compare pool types
Understand the true project cost
Think through the full backyard layout
Prepare for permits and local requirements
Make smart choices about features and finishes
For homeowners in Rochester and the Finger Lakes, planning in fall, winter, or early spring can also help position your project to be ready for the swimming season sooner.
Download the Pool Planning Worksheet to start mapping your goals, backyard priorities, and budget.
Get organized and plan your dream pool. Click here to download and edit your own copy.
2. Start by defining your goals
Before you compare pool types or ask for pricing, get clear on why you want a pool in the first place.
Ask yourself:
How will we use the pool most often?
Is this mainly for relaxing, entertaining, exercise, kids, or family time?
Do we want a simple pool project or a full backyard renovation?
How important are low maintenance, quick installation, and long-term durability?
What do we want this space to feel like when it is done?
Your answers will help guide decisions about pool size, shape, depth, add-ons, surrounding patio space, and the overall design of the backyard.
A good pool project should match the way you live, not just the size of your yard.
3. What type of in-ground pool is right for you?
There are three main types of in-ground pools: fiberglass, vinyl liner, and gunite. Each has different strengths, costs, and maintenance needs. The right choice depends on your budget, goals, design preferences, and how much maintenance you want long-term.
Fiberglass Pools
Price range: $45,000 to $100,000.
Fiberglass pools are one of the most popular options for homeowners who want a beautiful, durable, and low-maintenance pool.
Because the shell is pre-manufactured, installation is usually faster than with gunite. Fiberglass pools also have a smooth, non-porous surface, which helps reduce algae buildup and makes routine maintenance simpler. They work well with saltwater systems and come in a wide range of attractive shapes and finishes.
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faster installation
simpler maintenance
a smooth, comfortable finish
salt system compatibility
a clean, polished look
a pool that works well as part of a larger backyard project
Fiberglass does have limits. Because the shells are manufactured in set shapes and sizes, there is less design flexibility than with gunite. But for many homeowners, the available options are more than enough.
Vinyl Liner Pools
Price range: $50,000 to $75,000.
Vinyl liner pools are often chosen by homeowners looking for a lower upfront cost and more flexibility in size and shape.
They can be a strong option for buyers who want to maximize pool size while keeping the initial investment lower. The surface is soft and smooth, and there is room for customization. Over time, though, the liner will need to be replaced (10-12 if well cared for). That long-term cost should be part of the planning process.
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a lower initial price
more design flexibility than fiberglass
a larger pool for less upfront cost
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Liners typically need replacement every 10 to 12 years
Punctures or tears can happen
Long-term ownership costs may be higher than expected
Gunite Pools
Price range: $100,000 to $150,000
Gunite pools offer the most customization of the three main pool types.
Because they are built on-site, they give homeowners more freedom with shape, depth, size, and custom design details. That makes them a strong fit for people who want a one-of-a-kind pool design. Gunite pools also typically involve a longer build time, more upkeep, and a higher total investment.
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maximum customization
unique design features
a highly tailored pool layout
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longer installation timeline
more maintenance
higher overall cost
Pool type summary:
Fiberglass is often best for homeowners who want lower maintenance, faster installation, and long-term durability.
Vinyl liner can make sense for homeowners who want a lower initial cost and more shape flexibility.
Gunite is usually best for homeowners who want the most customization and are comfortable with a longer timeline and more ongoing upkeep.
The choice comes down to your budget, maintenance preferences, and a design that best fits your backyard space.
4. How much does an in-ground pool cost?
In-ground pool pricing varies based on pool type, size, access to the yard, site conditions, features, economic factors, and how much of the surrounding backyard is included in the project.
For fiberglass pool installs, these are helpful starting points:
Smaller fiberglass pools: Average around $75,000
Medium fiberglass pools: Average around $110,000
Larger fiberglass pools: Average around $115,000
These ranges are useful for planning, but they only tell part of the story. Remember, the pool is the star of the show but not the full project. Homeowners should always plan for a patio, pool surround, landscaping, drainage, fencing, utilities, and final site restoration.
That is why it is so important to think about the entire backyard from the start!
Download Your Free Pool Planning Worksheet!
Get your budget and ideas organized! Click below to download and edit your own copy.
5. What should you budget for besides the pool?
This is where many homeowners get caught off guard. A new pool is a major investment, but the pool shell is only one part of the overall cost. To create a backyard that looks finished and functions well, you also need to budget for the space around it.
Additional project costs beyond the pool include:
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Heavy equipment affects more than the pool footprint. Lawn restoration, planting, grading, and site cleanup are often part of the final phase of the project. Source pricing also notes that landscaping and lawn repair can range widely depending on complexity.
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Fencing is often required for safety and code compliance. Some properties already have adequate perimeter fencing, while others need new fencing or modifications.
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Pool equipment, lighting, automation, heaters, and electrical hookups all need to be planned and coordinated.
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These details are easy to overlook, but they have a big impact on how the backyard performs after the project is done. Water needs a place to go, and the site needs to be shaped properly to protect the finished space.
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Pool owners should also plan for maintenance, seasonal opening and closing, and long-term care. The source guide includes annual DIY maintenance, maintenance contracts, and yearly opening and closing as part of ownership costs.
A good rule of thumb is to think in three buckets:
the pool
the required site and code items
the finished backyard around the pool
That approach creates a more realistic plan from the beginning.
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This includes decking, coping, walkways, lounging space, and hardscape around the pool.
A rough planning range:
simple pool surround: around $45,000 to $60,000
mid-level surround: around $80,000 to $120,000
high-end surround: around $125,000 to $300,000+
For pricing on additional outdoor features, please refer to our landscape pricing guide.
6. What shape, size, and depth should your pool be?
The right pool design depends on your goals, your yard, and how you plan to use the space.
A great pool design thoughtfully balances beauty, function, safety, and the bigger picture of the entire backyard.
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Rectangular pools often feel clean, classic, and modern. Freeform pools feel softer and more natural. The right shape usually depends on your home style, patio design, and the mood you want for the backyard.
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Bigger is not always better. A larger pool can reduce patio space, lawn area, or room for landscaping and entertaining. The best size is the one that fits your yard and still leaves space for the rest of the experience.
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Think about how your family will actually use the pool. Lounging, family recreation, games, diving, and lap swimming all call for different design choices.
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Tanning ledges, built-in spas, beach entries, bubblers, water features, and upgraded finishes can add comfort and visual impact when they fit your lifestyle and budget.
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5. Permits and Fencing Regulations
Let’s turn our focus to the behind-the-scenes details. Every locality has specific codes for pool installations. A property survey map is required for permitting, so be sure to find yours when the time comes! Typical permitting processes take 2-4 weeks, depending on your town’s requirements.
Oasis Pools handles the permitting for you, ensuring your project meets all safety and zoning requirements. Not all companies do this so be sure to ask!
We also help with fencing. Fencing around the pool will be required for safety purposes, although many homes already have adequate perimeter fencing that satisfies this mandate. Whatever your situation is, we’re here to help guide you through the process.
Quick access to popular town codes in Rochester, NY:
Town of Pittsford, NY- https://ecode360.com/5126952
Town of Fairport, NY - https://ecode360.com/10645780
Village of Victor, NY - https://ecode360.com/9479630
Town of Mendon, NY - https://ecode360.com/29608756
Town of Webster, NY - https://www.villageofwebster.com/pools.html
Don’t see your town? Google search: “ecode360 + your town/zip code”
6. Dig to Swim Timeline
Full Backyard pool projects can take 6-9 months from initial design to final completion.
Design and Planning: 3-6 weeks.
Permitting: 2-4 weeks
Pool Install: 30-60 days
Construction: 1-3 months.
Finishing Touches: 1-2 months for landscaping and custom hardscape features.
“For fiberglass pools, we strive for a dig-to-swim time of 30 days from commencement. ”
A Detailed Overview of a Pool Install:
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Starting with the design and planning phase, you'll work closely with a designer to transform your vision into reality.
This crucial stage involves exploring different ideas and possibilities for your project, including the layout, pool shape, materials, colors, and aesthetic preferences.
It's important to consider the functionality, practicality, budget, space constraints, and local regulations, ensuring that the final result aligns perfectly with your vision through collaboration with the designer.
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In the scheduling phase you'll work closely with your designer and project manager to set up a specific timeline for the installation process.
This stage involves coordinating with the pool installation team to determine a suitable date and time for the actual installation to take place. Additionally, you will focus on finalizing smaller details related to your pool surround, such as confirming the chosen materials, colors, and any additional features or amenities.
The scheduling phase ensures that all necessary preparations are made and that you are well-prepared for the upcoming installation of your pool surround.
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During the excavation phase of an in-ground pool installation, the pool company begins the exciting process of breaking ground to create your new pool. This significant milestone marks the official start of construction. It's important to note that this phase can be a bit messy and noisy, as heavy machinery is used to excavate the area where the pool will be located. The specific details of the excavation phase can vary depending on the type of pool you choose, such as the shape, size, and depth.
Despite the temporary disruption, this phase represents the beginning of transforming your vision into a tangible reality!
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During the installation phase, the unique characteristics of the pool type you selected come into play, resulting in varying processes and timelines.
For instance, if you opted for a gunite pool, the installation process is typically more involved and time-consuming. In this case, the construction crew would begin by laying a framework of rebar to provide structural reinforcement. Next, they would proceed to spray a mixture of concrete and sand, known as gunite, which is meticulously shaped and smoothed to form the pool shell. Other pool types may involve different steps, such as assembling pre-formed panels or installing a vinyl liner.
The installation phase showcases the specialized techniques and materials used to bring your chosen pool type to life, ensuring that every detail is carefully executed to create the ideal swimming environment.
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The pool surround phase is where the pool portion of your project finally starts to come together, combining the natural beauty of landscaping with the practicality of hardscaping to create a complete and enjoyable outdoor oasis.
This phase can begin during the pool installation, especially if you’re incorporating additional features such as a patio, or outdoor structure, like a pool house or cabana.
Landscaping elements such as plants, trees, shrubs, and flowers are strategically placed to create a visually appealing and inviting atmosphere. Also, don’t forget about yard repair!
Hardscaping features like pathways, patio areas, seating, and decking are installed to provide functional spaces for relaxation, entertaining, and easy access to the pool.
7. Selecting Pool Add-Ons
Popular Add-Ons Inlcude:
Lighting: LED lights not only provide illumination for safe night swimming, they also contribute to your overall backyard aesthetic.
Heating System: a pool heater is a must-have in Rochester for extending your swimming season!
Fiberglass Spa: Fiberglass spas are designed with open seating flexibility in mind.
Bubblers: Bubblers replicate the bubbly nature of hot springs, adding spa-like features to your tanning ledge.
iAqualink Pool & Spa Automation
UV Sanitizer
Salt Generator
Auto Cover
ClearDeck Solar Cover System
Water Slide
Safety Cover
Cantilever Coping
Sound Systems: Create a relaxing or party-ready atmosphere.
8. Adding Landscaping
Did you know Oasis is the only pool company in Rochester that handles your entire pool project?
This includes permits, electric hook-up, fencing, lawn repair, landscaping, and beyond. Integrate your pool into the surrounding landscape for a cohesive look. Choose low-maintenance plants, create privacy screens, and add functional elements like walkways and patios. Consider:
Ornamental grasses and evergreens for year-round appeal.
Retaining walls and grading to ensure proper drainage.
Flowering shrubs for seasonal color.
9. Designing Your Pool Surround
A “pool surround” refers to everything that goes around the pool. This includes features like coping, patio, decking, planting, fencing, etc. A classic choice is going with a paver patio pool surround. This is great thanks to its durability, ease of use, and varied looks. Pavers, concrete, and tiles are the most common pool coping options. There are many different stone materials used to make pavers, such as sandstone, travertine, and marble, and porcelain is another popular paver material. This gives you a world of color options to create the look you’ve always dreamed of.
How much does a pool surround typically cost?
A simple pool surround starts at around $45,000 - $60,000. This could include a small concrete patio, fence, grading, and small plants.
Mid-level pool surrounds cost around $80,000 to $120,000. This can include a paver patio, fencing, lighting, fencing,
High range $125000 to $300,000 - large patios, water features, walls, steps, water features, outdoor kitchens, structures, pool houses, pergolas, grottos
10. Hiring the Right Pool Company
Choose a reputable company with a proven track record of delivering high-quality, custom pool projects.
Look for:
Online reviews and testimonials.
A physical office location
Portfolios showcasing diverse projects.
Clear communication and transparency in pricing.
Warranty explanations
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