Pool chemical levels should include a pH between 7.4 and 7.6, alkalinity between 80 to 120 ppm, and chlorine from 1 to 3 ppm. The size and type of your pool determine additional chemical levels, such as stabilizers and pool shock, but you can get to know these numbers using our pool maintenance 101 guide.

Gunite pools are not exactly easy to maintain—but we wouldn't call them "high maintenance." It's one of the longest-lasting pool options, but its porous surface does require a lot of care. You’ll need to thoroughly clean the pool often to prevent stubborn algae growth, and the pool will require higher chemical levels to keep it clean. 

The total time to install an inground pool typically ranges from 8 weeks to 4 months. This timeline can be influenced by several factors, including permitting, site preparation, and the construction process itself.

Key phases and their typical durations include:

• Permits: Obtaining necessary permits can take anywhere from two to six weeks.

• Excavation and Site Preparation: This phase takes about a week but can be extended by problematic soil, unexpected ground conditions, or the need to move underground utility lines.

• Construction: The actual build, including plumbing and electrical work, often takes one to two months. The pool material is a major factor here; a concrete pool needs about 30 days to cure, while installing a fiberglass or vinyl liner is much faster.

External factors can also cause significant delays:

• Contractor Availability: Spring and summer are busy seasons, and high demand can lead to long waitlists, potentially adding months to your start date. It is often recommended to start planning and getting estimates up to a year in advance.

• Other Delays: Weather, material shortages, complex designs, and other unforeseen challenges can extend the project timeline.

There are a few differences when it comes to winterizing above- vs. inground pools. Above ground pool winterization usually involves less hassle, time, and expense than the process for winterizing an inground pool. All the lines on an above ground pool are easy to access, making draining easier. Plus, above ground pools are typically smaller, meaning cleaning is quicker, and chemicals cost less.