Installing an inground concrete pool is one of the most exciting upgrades you can make to your home. It turns your backyard into a gathering place for family, friends, and relaxation for years to come. But because a concrete pool is also a significant investment, choosing the right builder is one of the most important decisions you’ll make during the process.

The right contractor will guide you through design, construction, and long-term maintenance. The wrong one can leave you dealing with delays, unexpected costs, and costly repairs down the road. If you're considering building a pool, here are some key factors to consider when choosing the right inground concrete pool builder.

Start With Experience and Reputation

One of the first things to look at is how long a company has been building pools. Experience matters in pool construction because every property is different. Soil conditions, drainage, slope, utilities, and local regulations can all affect how a project needs to be designed and built.

An experienced builder has already faced and solved these challenges many times. They know how to plan properly, anticipate potential issues, and keep the project moving forward.

Look for companies with a strong track record in your area. Local builders who have worked in your community for years will understand regional climate factors, permitting requirements, and soil conditions that can affect construction.

For example, Rising Sun Pools has been building pools in North Carolina since 1972. With more than five decades of experience, our team has encountered nearly every design and construction challenge imaginable, and knows how to solve them efficiently.

Review Previous Projects

Before choosing a builder, take time to look at their past work. A reputable pool builder should be able to show you a portfolio of completed projects or provide examples of pools they’ve installed.

When reviewing previous work, pay attention to:

Overall craftsmanship

Variety of pool shapes and designs

Integration with landscaping or outdoor living areas

Finishing details and tile work

Concrete pools are highly customizable, which means a skilled builder should be able to create designs that fit many different property layouts and aesthetic styles.

Seeing real projects can also help you visualize what’s possible in your own backyard.

Understand the Construction Process

A trustworthy pool builder should clearly explain how their construction process works. Inground concrete pools are typically built using either shotcrete or gunite, both of which involve spraying concrete over a steel rebar framework.

The general process includes:

Design and planning

Excavation

Steel rebar installation

Concrete application (shotcrete or gunite)

Curing period

Plumbing, electrical, and equipment installation

Interior finishing and filling the pool

Concrete requires time to properly cure and strengthen, which is why most projects take several months from start to completion. A typical concrete pool installation takes about 12 to 20 weeks, depending on weather conditions and design complexity.

A good builder will walk you through each stage so you understand the timeline and what to expect.

Ask About Customization Options

One of the biggest advantages of a concrete pool is the ability to fully customize the design. Unlike pre-formed pool shells, concrete allows you to create nearly any shape or layout that fits your property.

A quality builder will help you think through details such as:

Pool shape and size

Depth variations

Steps, tanning ledges, and seating areas

Water features or lighting

Integrated spas

Decking and outdoor living areas

Finishes also play a major role in the final appearance of your pool. Modern pool finishes can create a wide range of water colors from bright Caribbean blues to deep lagoon tones.

Working with experienced builders ensures your pool design fits both your aesthetic vision and the practical layout of your yard.

Verify Credentials and Industry Recognition

Professional credentials can also help you evaluate a builder’s reliability and expertise.

Look for companies that are active in professional industry organizations or have received recognition for their work. Awards, certifications, and industry affiliations demonstrate a commitment to quality and ongoing professional standards.

Rising Sun Pools, for example, has been recognized as a Top 50 Pool Builder in the United States since 2009 and has received national awards from the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance and Pool & Spa News. These recognitions reflect a consistent dedication to craftsmanship and customer satisfaction.

Look for Strong Customer Support

Building a pool doesn’t end when construction is finished. Pools require ongoing maintenance, water testing, equipment care, and occasional service.

Working with a company that offers ongoing support after the pool is finished can make ownership much easier. Pools require regular care, and having a team you can rely on for service, water testing, and equipment guidance helps keep everything running smoothly year after year.

Communication during the project matters just as much. A good builder should keep you updated on progress, explain what’s happening at each stage, and be available to answer questions along the way. When everyone stays on the same page, the project tends to move more smoothly and the final result is much closer to what you originally envisioned.

Consider Value, Not Just Price

Installing a concrete pool is a significant investment. Depending on the design, size, and conditions of your property, most projects fall somewhere between $100,000 and $200,000.

While it’s tempting to go with the lowest quote, price alone doesn’t always tell the whole story. The materials used, the experience of the construction crew, and the quality of the engineering behind the project all play a role in how well the pool holds up over time.

Pools that are built properly can last for decades. On the other hand, shortcuts during construction can lead to problems like cracking, leaks, or costly repairs down the road.

Rather than focusing only on the initial cost, it’s often smarter to look at the full picture: experience, quality of work, reputation, and the level of support the company provides before and after the project is complete.

Partner With a Builder You Trust

At the end of the day, building a pool is a collaborative project. You’ll work closely with your builder for several months, making design decisions and watching your backyard transform.

Choosing a company you trust makes the entire process smoother and more enjoyable.

Rising Sun Pools has been serving homeowners in North Carolina for more than 50 years. As a locally owned, family-run company, we enjoy helping people create pools that truly fit their homes and the way they want to spend time outside.

If you’re thinking about adding a concrete inground pool, schedule a consultation today. Our team can walk you through design ideas, answer your questions, and help you start planning a pool that fits your space, your style, and your budget.