The Pool Guides Podcast
The Pool Guides Podcast helps homeowners make confident, informed decisions about building the backyard of their dreams.
Hosted by Cristian Shirilla of River Pools, each episode dives into a single question that every pool shopper eventually asks — from “How much does a fiberglass pool cost?” to “Which type of pool is right for my family and climate?”
Rather than marketing spin, you’ll hear honest, expert-driven conversations with the most trusted professionals in the swimming pool industry. Together, we break down pricing, design options, installation realities, and maintenance considerations so you can approach your pool project with clarity — not confusion.
Whether you’re comparing fiberglass, concrete, or vinyl-liner pools, exploring features like automatic covers or tanning ledges, or simply wondering how to choose the right installer, The Pool Guides Podcast is your friendly, trustworthy companion through every step of the journey.
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The Pool Guides Podcast
Episode 3; How Long Does It Take To Install a Pool?
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How long does it really take to install a pool?
In this episode of The Pool Guides Podcast, Cristian Shirilla talks with pool industry expert Jason Hughes about what actually controls your pool installation timeline — and why speed alone is a dangerous way to choose a pool.
Common Questions This Episode Answers:
- How long does it really take to install a pool?
- How long does it take to install a fiberglass vs vinyl vs concrete pool?
- What causes pool projects to take longer than expected?
- Do permits and inspections delay pool installation?
- How can I plan my pool project timeline realistically?
From the moment you sign a contract to the day you finally swim, pool timelines are influenced by far more than just pool type. Scope of work, permits, inspections, weather, contractor backlog, and even the time of year can quietly add weeks or months to your project.
You’ll also hear the true story behind a legendary fiberglass pool install completed in just eight hours and fifteen minutes — why it happened, what it proves, and why you should never expect that timeline for your own backyard.
This episode is designed to help you manage expectations, reduce stress during construction, and choose the pool you’ll enjoy for the next 10+ years — not just the one that promises the fastest install.
What You’ll Learn:
- Why installation speed shouldn’t drive your pool decision
- Realistic timelines for fiberglass, vinyl liner, and concrete pools
- How scope of work quietly adds weeks or months to your project
- Why weather, permits, and inspections affect every pool type
- How to plan your pool timeline without unnecessary stress or regret
Guest: Jason Hughes
Jason Hughes is a partner at River Pools Virginia and a GENESIS instructor with the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA). With more than 20 years of hands-on experience, Jason has worked on thousands of residential pool projects and helps homeowners understand what really matters when planning a pool.