Generally speaking, you should expect to wait 24 to 48 hours after filling a pool before you use it. However, the actual timeline depends on a few factors. Most importantly, you need to shock the water with chlorine or an alternative to swimming pool chlorine and let the concentration come down to a safe level before using the pool. Additionally, most water sources will be cold, and it can take days before the sun or your pool heater warms your water to a comfortable temperature. Alternatively, getting water professionally delivered could have you swimming in just a few hours.

Small backyards are not a reason to write off fun upgrades like an above ground pool. You can find both soft and hard-sided above ground pools as small as 8 feet in diameter as well as 9-by-18-feet rectangles or 10-by-16-feet ovals. You will need at least 2 to 3 feet around the outside of your pool for additional support and for placing pool equipment, but a professional pool installer can help you find a model that's right for your tiny outdoor space.

Before deciding to install a swimming pool in your yard, there are many factors to consider. Even if you still need to figure out the specifics with your pool installer, having an idea of what you'd like will help the initial consultation. Some topics to consider include:

• Will you use salt water for your pool or traditional hose water?

• How big of a pool do you want to install? How deep?

• What special zoning laws do you need to follow for your area?

• Do you want to keep it simple or add special features like underwater lighting and waterfalls?

You cannot DIY a gunite pool—unless, of course, you’re a homeowner who happens to also be a professional pool installer. And even pros need to have experience with gunite pools, in particular, before installing one. Only a skilled gunite pool technician can install this type of pool—it’s not a project you can do yourself.