When the Dream Begins
There’s something magical about the idea of an inground pool. Pinterest boards full of tropical backyards, perfect lounge chairs, and crystal-clear water that feels like a mini vacation every day. That dream pulled me in fast. I imagined summer parties, kids splashing, quiet Sunday floats, and coffee by the water.
But here’s what no one told me: as dreamy as pools look online, the real-life experience is messier, pricier, and way more complicated than I expected. And still—yes—it can be worth it.
If you’re even thinking about putting a pool in your backyard, this is what I wish someone had told me first.
What I Wish I Knew
1. The Yard Will Look Like a Construction Site
Let’s start here. When the digging begins, your yard stops being a backyard. It’s a job site. Heavy machines roll in, the ground turns to mud, and things get loud and chaotic fast. Our grass? Gone. Plants? Flattened. Fence? Removed and reinstalled. If you love your garden, prep yourself mentally—and budget for re-landscaping afterward.
2. Pinterest Pools Take Planning (and Professionals)
The pool you’re picturing probably includes chic tile, floating steps, an umbrella-shaded sun shelf, or maybe a cozy hot tub corner. Those features are amazing—but they don’t just happen. A designer can help you avoid awkward layouts or missed details, like putting bubblers where your lounge chairs end up covering them (yes, I did that).
We also learned that pool orientation matters. Ours ended up looking best when placed perpendicular to the house—not what we expected, but it changed everything.
3. The Timeline Is Always Longer
We were told six weeks. It took four months. Between permits, rain delays, electricians, plaster crews, inspections—it dragged on. And once the pool was filled, we still had to finish the patio, add furniture, and fix the yard.
If your builder gives you a timeline, add at least 30% to it—minimum.
4. The Real Cost Includes Everything Around the Pool
We budgeted for the pool itself… but didn’t realize how quickly costs would add up. Here’s what we didn’t fully account for:
- Concrete or paver decking
- Outdoor furniture
- Landscaping
- Fencing
- Pool cover
- Pool heater and lighting
- Permits and utility work
All those extras easily matched the price of the pool shell itself. It’s not just a pool—it’s a whole backyard remodel.
5. It Will Change Your Lifestyle (In a Good Way)
Despite all the headaches, I’ll say this: it has changed our life. We spend more time outside than ever. The kids swim daily, we host more get-togethers, and even quiet evenings feel different when you can dip your feet in the water with a drink in hand.
I’ve had some of my best summer memories right there, sitting on the edge, watching the sun go down. It made our home feel like a place we don’t want to leave.
Would I Do It Again?
Yes. But with more planning. I’d map out the whole backyard—not just the pool. I’d hire a designer earlier, be more realistic about costs, and plan for the long haul. I’d also wait until I’d seen the yard through one or two heavy rainstorms (hello drainage problems).
A pool isn’t just a project—it’s a commitment. You’ll spend money, time, and energy maintaining it. But if you love the water, love entertaining, or just want a reason to spend more time outside, it’s worth exploring.
Final Thoughts
If you’re thinking about installing an inground pool, don’t just dream—research. Plan out your full space, talk to real homeowners, ask about regrets, and build in buffer time (and budget) for the unexpected. And know that the best part of a pool isn’t the Instagram shot—it’s how it makes your home feel like a retreat, every single day.
If you’re ready for the splash, go in informed. You won’t regret it.
