Pools & Hardscaping
A custom pool is a permanent, in-ground swimming pool designed and built specifically for your property. Hearthstone Design Build builds gunite and vinyl pools with integrated hardscaping—patios, outdoor kitchens, fire features, and landscape lighting—to create complete outdoor living environments.
Serving Loudoun, Fauquier, Clarke, and Albemarle counties.
What types of pools can you build?
From lap pools to resort-style retreats—designed to complement your property, lifestyle, and long-term investment goals.
Gunite (Concrete) Pools
$85,000–$200,000+
Custom-shaped concrete pools with endless design possibilities. The gold standard for luxury pool construction.
Vinyl Liner Pools
$55,000–$85,000
Cost-effective option with a smooth finish. Faster installation and lower initial investment.
Infinity Edge Pools
$120,000–$300,000+
Vanishing edge designs that create stunning visual effects, perfect for hillside properties with views.
Spas & Hot Tubs
$15,000–$40,000 (as pool add-on)
Integrated spas with spillover into pool, or standalone hot tubs with custom surrounds.
What site constraints affect pool construction?
Pool projects require careful site integration. These factors determine feasibility, design options, and cost.
Drainage & Grading
Water must flow away from pool, house, and deck. Improper grading causes flooding and erosion.
Cost impact: $5,000–$25,000+ for regrading
Utility Access
Electrical (240V), gas (for heaters), and water connections needed. Distance from house affects cost.
Cost impact: $3,000–$15,000
Setback Requirements
Most counties require 10–15 ft from property lines. HOAs may have additional restrictions.
Impact: Pool size and placement options
Soil Conditions
Rock, clay, or high water table affect excavation difficulty and shell engineering.
Cost impact: $5,000–$30,000+ for rock removal
Access for Equipment
Excavators need 8–10 ft wide access. Limited access requires smaller equipment and more time.
Cost impact: $2,000–$10,000
Septic System Location
Pools must maintain required separation from drain fields. May limit pool placement.
Impact: Design constraints
What permits are required for pool construction?
Pool construction requires multiple permits and inspections. We manage all permitting as part of our process.
Required Permits
- Building permit — Required for pool shell, electrical, and mechanical
- Health department — Required for pool water systems
- Fence permit — 4 ft self-closing, self-latching fence required
- Electrical permit — For pool pump, lights, and bonding
Permit Timeline by County
- Loudoun County4–6 weeks
- Fauquier County3–5 weeks
- Clarke County2–4 weeks
- Albemarle County4–8 weeks
How much does a pool cost in Virginia?
Pool costs depend on construction type, size, features, and site conditions. Here's what to expect for 2024–2025 pricing:
Pool Construction
Hardscaping Add-Ons
Flagstone, bluestone, or travertine
Concrete pavers with various patterns
Grill, refrigerator, sink, counters
Gas or wood-burning, built-in
Stone or stucco, with hearth
Freestanding or attached
Stone, block, or timber
LED path, accent, and pool lights
Complete Project Examples
Entry-Level Pool Package
16×32 vinyl pool, basic deck, no features
$70,000–$95,000
Mid-Range Custom Pool
18×36 gunite, spa, paver deck, fire pit
$150,000–$220,000
Resort-Style Retreat
Infinity edge, outdoor kitchen, full hardscape
$300,000–$500,000+
How long does pool construction take?
Most pool projects take 4–6 months from signed contract to first swim. Complex projects with extensive hardscaping may take 6–8 months.
Design & Permits
4–8 weeks
3D design, engineering, health dept & building permits
Excavation
2–5 days
Dig pool shape, haul dirt, prep for steel
Steel & Plumbing
1–2 weeks
Rebar grid, plumbing lines, electrical conduit
Gunite/Shell
1 day
Concrete spray application, cure time follows
Tile & Coping
1–2 weeks
Waterline tile, coping stones, deck prep
Decking & Hardscape
2–4 weeks
Pool deck, patios, retaining walls
Plaster & Equipment
1 week
Interior finish, pump, filter, heater installation
Fill & Startup
3–5 days
Fill pool, balance chemistry, owner orientation
Best Time to Start a Pool Project
Fall and winter are ideal for design and permitting. Starting construction in February or March means you'll be swimming by Memorial Day or early June. Waiting until spring to begin design often means missing the summer season entirely.
What permits are needed for a pool in Virginia?
Pool construction requires multiple permits and inspections. We manage the entire process as part of every project.
Required Permits & Approvals
- Building Permit: Structural, pool shell, and deck construction
- Electrical Permit: Pool equipment, lighting, bonding requirements
- Health Department: Water quality, barrier/fence requirements
- Zoning Review: Setbacks, lot coverage, easement clearance
Barrier & Safety Requirements
- Minimum 4-foot fence with self-closing, self-latching gate
- No climbable objects within 3 feet of barrier
- Pool alarms or safety covers may be required
- GFCI protection for all pool-area electrical
Permit processing typically takes 4–8 weeks depending on county workload.
What mistakes should I avoid when building a pool?
Pool construction is a significant investment. These common mistakes can cost tens of thousands of dollars to correct:
Undersizing the pool deck
Problem: A narrow deck feels cramped; you'll wish you'd invested in more entertaining space
Solution: Plan for minimum 8–10 feet of deck on the main lounging side
Ignoring grading and drainage
Problem: Water flows toward house or pools on deck after rain
Solution: Proper site grading should be engineered before excavation begins
Choosing the wrong pool type for your lot
Problem: Vinyl pools can't handle complex shapes; gunite costs more but lasts 3× longer
Solution: Discuss lot conditions and long-term plans before selecting construction method
Skipping the heater or undersizing equipment
Problem: Swimming season limited to 3 months; pump can't handle water features
Solution: Size equipment for future additions; a heat pump extends season to 6+ months
Ready for Your Backyard Oasis?
Let's design the pool and outdoor living space you've been dreaming about. Schedule a free consultation to discuss your project.