One of the biggest misconceptions we hear from customers is that pool installations can only be done during spring and summer. But, while there are certain challenges to fall and winter projects, a cool-weather build offers its fair share of perks.

In this article, we discuss both the complexities AND benefits of Raleigh, NC fall and winter pool installations.

Challenges of Cool-Weather Pool Installations

Below-freezing temperatures in late fall and winter can impact several aspects of a pool installation project. 

Here are some potential complications Raleigh, NC pool builders face between October and February.

The ground may be too hard.

When the ground freezes, excavation becomes a lot more difficult. More often than not, pool contractors will have to wait to start (or continue) digging until the ground thaws. Fortunately, temperatures rising into the 70s or 80s in winter is not unforeseen in the Raleigh area.

Cool weather CAN cause delays.

On occasion, icy and snowy conditions in central North Carolina can put a temporary pause on winter pool installations. These unexpected interruptions can throw off your predetermined timeline and prolong the construction process by several weeks. 

Concrete can’t be poured when it’s chilly.

In freezing weather, concrete tends to crack. A gunite pool installation that requires a significant amount of concrete can take considerably longer than other in-ground pool projects, such as fiberglass pools.

Vinyl liners are cold-sensitive.

Similar to concrete, vinyl liners can crack when temperatures drop. For the best results, vinyl pool liners need to be laid while warm. Summer heat makes it a lot easier to stretch and manipulate the liner into the precise shape desired. 

Testing may have to wait until spring.

It’s not a good idea to test your pool equipment for the first time when the water could freeze in the pipes. On the off chance there is a small problem with your system, it’s safer to discover the issue when temperatures are a little higher.

Expert Insights:

• According to the National Weather Service, the average low temperature in Raleigh, North Carolina in November is 48 degrees Fahrenheit. The ground is typically considered to be hard enough to impede excavation work when temperatures fall below freezing, which occurs in Raleigh from December to February.
• The average snowfall in Raleigh, North Carolina is 10 inches per year, with most of it falling between December and February. While this amount of snow is not usually enough to cause significant disruptions, it can delay pool installation projects if the ground becomes too icy or if the snowpack is heavy enough to prevent access to the construction site.
• Concrete is most susceptible to cracking when the temperature is between 40 and 50 degrees Fahrenheit. If the temperature falls below this range, the concrete may fail to cure properly, which can lead to cracks and other problems.
• Vinyl liners can crack or become brittle when the temperature dips below 40 degrees Fahrenheit. For this reason, vinyl liners are typically installed in the spring or fall when the weather is warm.
• It is not advisable to test your pool equipment for the first time when the water could freeze in the pipes. If there is a small problem with your system, it is safer to discover the issue when the temperatures are a little higher.

Benefits of Fall & Winter Pool Installations

Even with the complexities listed above, building your in-ground pool during the Raleigh, NC off-season is still a great option.

There are many benefits to a cool-weather pool installation:

You will pay less.

Most in-ground pool builders get a big rush of customers in the spring and summer. Then, when temperatures fall, their inboxes seem to ice over. This phenomenon – paired with the reduced cost for materials – is why you’ll see many pool contractors offering discounted rates for fall and winter pool builds.

(Source: Pool Contractor Search)

The pool will be ready well before summer.

You will be able to enjoy a nice cool swim the very first day the toasty 80-degree weather hits. No waiting for your pool contractor to finish up their work mid-summer!

There’s plenty of time for landscaping.

Building your pool before springtime means you’ll have a chance to clean up your yard and prepare poolside living spaces before you go for your first swim.

You won’t have to wait so long.

There’s not a long line like there will be during the summer. If you decide to build your pool in fall or winter, you’ll probably be able to start pretty quickly. 

Snow isn’t a BIG concern in Raleigh, NC.

Yes, the Raleigh area gets snow on occasion. But excessive rainstorms in spring and summer are far more likely to delay your pool installation.

Expert Insights:

• Pool contractors often offer discounts on pool installations in the fall and winter, as they are typically less busy during this time of year and are looking to fill their schedules.
• By starting your pool project in the fall or winter, you can have your pool ready to enjoy in time for the summer swimming season.
• Building your pool before springtime means you’ll have a chance to clean up your yard and prepare poolside living spaces before you go for your first swim.
• There is typically less demand for pool installations in the fall and winter, so you may be able to get on a schedule sooner than you would in the summer.
• While Raleigh does get snow on occasion, excessive rainstorms in spring and summer are far more likely to delay your pool installation.

Rising Sun Pools – Raleigh, NC Pool Contractors

At Rising Sun Pools, we not only design spectacular in-ground and above-ground pools. But we also do our best to accommodate your unique pool project timeline – whether you want to build in summer or winter, spring or fall!

The sooner we get your project on the books, the more likely we will be able to stick to your preferred timeline. 

Want to schedule a pool installation this fall or winter? Contact us now!

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