Inground Swimming Pool Kit Installation and Construction Overview
Plan and permit first, then lay out, dig, set the walls, square and level, add coping, and pour the footing. Each stage links to its step-by-step guide below.
This page is your roadmap for building a Royal Swimming Pools inground pool kit. Work through the stages below in order. Each stage links to a detailed article.
Before you start
- We email your installation guide with your order, along with your parts breakdown and packing list. Your dig specification drawing (dig spec), which you approve during ordering, sets your layout and excavation depths, so keep it on hand throughout the build.
- Get the required permits before you start. Pool codes vary from one county to another, and your building department may ask to see your dig spec.
- Have underground utilities located before excavation begins. Utility companies will usually locate underground pipes and cables at no charge.
- Wait until your pool kit arrives before you start digging. Heavy rain can wash out an open excavation.
- Plan for what the kit does not include: concrete for the footing and deck, plumbing, electrical, and the material for the 2" pool base.
- Hire licensed professionals for electrical work. Poorly installed electrical systems can create safety hazards.
Installation steps, in order
- Questions to Answer Before Installing an Inground Pool: permits, required utilities, choosing your pool site and equipment location, hiring an excavation contractor, and the minimum tool list.
- How to Set Up Your Pool Layout: mark the pool perimeter and over dig on the ground from your dig spec, for rectilinear, oval, and freeform pools.
- How to Excavate for your Inground Pool: set your finished elevation, dig the shelf and hopper to your dig spec, and trench for plumbing.
- How to Set the Panels for your Inground Pool: place the skimmer and returns, fit your step, and bolt the wall panels and braces together.
- How to Square, Level, and Set Up the Main Drains for your Inground Pool: square and level the walls and stake the panels. Main drains are optional. If you install them, you must use two, and they go in before the footing is poured.
- How to Install Coping on your Inground Pool: attach the coping that holds your liner bead and forms the edge of your concrete deck. If you are using cantilever coping with foam forms, bottom preparation and liner installation move to the very end of your build. The coping article explains the change.
- How to Pour the Concrete Footing for Your Inground Pool: a final level check, footing requirements, and how much concrete to order.
After the footing
The step-by-step series currently ends at the concrete footing. For the remaining stages, including plumbing, the pool base, and the liner, download your inground pool installation guide and use these articles:
- How Do I Route My Plumbing Lines and Set Up My Equipment Pad?
- How Do I Trowel the Pool's Base?
- How Do I Install an Inground Pool Liner?
Watch the install video
The video below shows the installation of an inground pool from excavation to the finished pool.
Important: This video does not show the correct way to install main drains. Main drains are optional. If you install them, follow the instructions included with your main drains and the How to Square, Level, and Set Up the Main Drains article above. Main drain installation must comply with the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act.
More on planning your build
- How Long Does It Take to Install an Inground Pool? covers typical timelines by pool type and common causes of delays.
- What is Included with an Inground Pool Kit?
- Where are the Installation Instructions to Build an Inground Swimming Pool?
- Shop our inground pool kits.
Still need help?
Didn't find the answer you were looking for? You can always contact us at support@royalswimmingpools.com or choose the category below to see our most frequently asked questions for that topic: