Planning Your Inground Pool: What to Know Before You Build
Thinking about adding a pool to your backyard?
An inground pool is more than a place to swim — it’s a lasting investment in your home and lifestyle. But with so many design, construction, and finish options, knowing where to start can feel overwhelming.
In this guide, we walk you through the essentials of planning an inground pool — from choosing the right build method and waterproofing to selecting a finish that’s as beautiful as it is durable. You’ll learn why we recommend ICF for unmatched strength and efficiency, plus get the facts on other popular pool types so you can make an informed decision that fits your vision.
A backyard pool isn’t just a place to cool off — it’s a lifestyle investment. Whether you’re picturing lazy summer afternoons, evening swims, or hosting friends by the water, a pool can completely transform how you enjoy your home. But before you dive into construction, it’s important to understand your options and plan carefully so you get a pool that fits your vision, your property, and your budget.
Start with your purpose. Are you building for relaxation, exercise, entertaining, or all of the above? Your goals will influence everything from shape and size to depth and features. A lap pool for daily workouts looks very different from a resort-style pool with a sun shelf, spa, and integrated seating.
Know your construction options. Inground pools generally fall into three main build methods:
ICF (Insulated Concrete Form) – Uses insulated concrete forms to create an incredibly strong, energy-efficient structure. ICF pools are highly customizable in shape and design, maintain water temperature more consistently, and are built to last for decades with minimal maintenance.
Gunite/Shotcrete (Traditional Concrete) – A popular choice for fully custom shapes. Durable and versatile, but can require more maintenance over time, including resurfacing every 10–15 years.
Fiberglass Drop-In – Pre-manufactured shells installed in one piece. They’re quick to install and smooth to the touch but have size and shape limitations due to transportation.
Understand the waterproofing step. Before any finish is applied, your pool structure needs to be properly waterproofed to protect against leaks and extend its life. At Kimmons Design and Build, we use Basecrete, a high-performance cementitious coating that provides exceptional waterproofing, chemical resistance, and durability — especially important for ICF pools.
Choose your pool finish. The finish is what you’ll see and feel inside the pool, and it’s a big part of the final look. Popular options include:
Plaster – Classic, smooth, and budget-friendly, but may require resurfacing more often.
Pebble – Durable with a natural texture and slip resistance. Pebble finishes use small, smooth stones for a timeless, organic look. For our ICF pools, we recommend PebbleTec — the original and highest-quality pebble finish on the market. Known for its beauty, durability, and wide range of colors, PebbleTec resists staining and fading, making it an excellent long-term investment.
Tile – Elegant and long-lasting; often used for accents or the entire surface.
Vinyl Liner – Smooth and comfortable underfoot; generally lower upfront cost but needs periodic replacement.
Evaluate your site. The slope of your yard, soil type, drainage, and existing landscaping will influence what’s possible. A professional site assessment early on can help avoid costly surprises during construction.
Plan the space around your pool. Your pool should feel like part of a larger outdoor living experience. Think about decking, shade structures, lighting, landscaping, outdoor kitchens, or fire features at the same time you’re designing the pool. Planning these elements together ensures a cohesive, functional space.
Budget realistically. Beyond the pool itself, factor in decking, landscaping, fencing, permits, pool equipment, and long-term maintenance. Choosing quality construction and materials will save you money over time, even if the upfront cost is higher.
Understand your timeline. Custom inground pools can take anywhere from several weeks to several months to complete, depending on complexity, permits, and weather. If you want to be swimming next summer, start the process now to avoid feeling rushed.
Choose the right builder. Experience matters — especially if you’re considering ICF construction. Look for a builder with proven results in your preferred pool type, transparent communication, and a portfolio that matches your style.
By taking the time to understand your options, evaluate your property, and choose quality construction, you’ll create a pool that you can enjoy for decades. Whether you go with the energy efficiency of ICF, the custom versatility of gunite, or the quick installation of fiberglass, your pool will be a lasting investment when it’s planned right from the start.
At Kimmons Design and Build, we specialize in custom ICF pools, waterproofed with Basecrete and finished with PebbleTec for unmatched durability and beauty. From design through completion, we help you create a backyard oasis that’s as functional as it is stunning.
Ready to start planning your dream pool? Fill out our quick online form or give us a call — we’ll take care of the rest.
