Planning to build a pool in your backyard? Whether you’re digging it yourself or hiring professionals, understanding the excavation process is key to ensuring everything runs smoothly. From choosing the right equipment to managing soil conditions, there are several important steps involved in pool excavation. This comprehensive guide answers common questions about pool digging—covering everything from how to excavate for an inground or above-ground pool to selecting the right excavator size, and even how to handle the large amounts of dirt that come out during the process. Dive into these FAQs to learn how to prepare for your pool project, avoid common pitfalls, and ensure a successful build!
Excavating for a pool is a big step, but with a bit of planning, the right tools, and some know-how, you’ll be well on your way. Let’s break it down:
Before you even pick up a shovel, you’ll need to make sure you have the right permits and are following local guidelines. Here’s how:
Once the paperwork is handled, it’s time to outline where your pool will go. Use stakes, string, or marking spray to map out the exact shape and size. Don’t forget to double-check your measurements!
Now comes the exciting part—digging! For most pools, you’ll want to use a full-sized excavator:
Soil can vary a lot depending on where you are:
As you dig, make sure the base of the pool slopes slightly to allow for drainage. Use stakes or a laser level to check that the slope matches your pool design. This is especially important in places like San Diego, where higher water tables can be an issue.
Once you’re done digging, you’ll have a big pile of dirt. In some cases, you can repurpose it for landscaping. But if there’s a lot of it, especially in tighter spaces like Del Mar or Encinitas, you’ll probably need to haul it away.
After excavation, the site is ready for the installation of your pool, whether you choose concrete, fiberglass, or vinyl. Proper excavation ensures a smooth installation process and a stable pool foundation.
Excavating a pool typically takes about 1 to 3 days, but a few factors can speed things up—or slow them down. The size and design of your pool, the type of equipment being used, and, most importantly, the soil conditions and weather all play a role. Here are a few things that can impact how long the digging will take:
In California—especially around San Diego—soil conditions vary quite a bit depending on where you are. Let’s take a closer look at what you can expect in different areas:
By understanding the soil and geology of your area, you’ll have a better idea of how long it’ll take to excavate your pool. Whether you’re near the coast or further inland, getting a professional to assess your site will help ensure that everything runs smoothly.
When deciding between an excavator and a mini excavator for your pool project, the right choice depends on a few key things—like the size of your pool, the type of soil you’re working with, and how easy it is to access your site. Let’s break it down and see what’s best for your situation:
If you’ve got plenty of space and are tackling a bigger project, a full-sized excavator is usually the way to go. Here’s how the process works:
If your project is smaller or you’re working in a tight space, a mini excavator might be the better choice. Here’s how it works:
In coastal areas like San Diego, Oceanside, or Carlsbad, where sandy soil is common, either an excavator or a mini excavator will work just fine. But if space is limited or access is tricky, you’ll probably want to go with a mini excavator.
For inland spots like Rancho Santa Fe or La Cresta, where you’re more likely to hit clay or rocky soil, a full-sized excavator will save you time and effort. It’s built to handle tougher digging conditions and can get the job done quicker.
In the end, the choice between an excavator and a mini excavator comes down to the size of your pool, the type of soil, and how easy it is to get the equipment onto your site. If you’re not sure, a professional assessment of your property will help you figure out the best approach for your project.
Excavating a pool creates a surprising amount of dirt! Planning ahead for how you’ll handle that soil—whether removing or repurposing it—is an important part of the process. The amount of dirt depends on the size, shape, and depth of your pool, but let’s take a closer look at what to expect.
There’s a simple way to estimate how much dirt will come out. For a standard rectangular pool, you can use the basic formula: length × width × depth = volume.
For example: Imagine a pool that’s 15 feet wide, 30 feet long, and 6 feet deep. That’ll give you around 2,700 cubic feet of dirt. Since 1 cubic yard equals 27 cubic feet, that’s roughly 100 cubic yards of soil you’ll need to deal with.
If your pool has a more complex shape (like a kidney design) or includes a deep end, you can expect to have even more dirt to manage.
Once the dirt is excavated, you’ll need to figure out what to do with it. Here are a couple of options:
Not all soil is the same! The type of soil on your property can affect how easily it’s removed and how much of it there is:
When budgeting for your pool, don’t forget to factor in the cost of dirt removal. It’s typically priced by the cubic yard, and the cost can vary based on how far the soil needs to be hauled, local regulations, and any landfill fees. Depending on how much dirt you’re moving, the costs can add up—so it’s good to plan ahead.
When it comes to digging a pool, picking the right size excavator makes all the difference. The size of the pool, the type of soil, and how easy it is to access your yard all factor into the decision. Let’s look at what you should keep in mind:
Think about how big your pool will be. For larger pools (like 15×30 feet or bigger), you’ll want a full-sized excavator. These machines are powerful, able to dig deep and move large amounts of soil quickly. If your pool has a deep end or a more complex design, you’ll definitely need the extra muscle.
For smaller or medium-sized pools, you might get away with a smaller excavator, but keep in mind that full-sized machines usually get the job done faster, even for standard pool sizes.
What’s the ground like where you’re digging? In coastal areas like San Diego, Oceanside, or Carlsbad, sandy soils are easier to work with. You could use smaller equipment, but a full-sized excavator will still speed things up and save time.
On the other hand, if you’re digging in areas with tougher, clay-rich, or rocky soil—like Rancho Santa Fe or La Cresta—you’ll need a bigger, more powerful machine to get through that dense ground. Smaller equipment might struggle and take much longer.
Got plenty of space to work with? A full-sized excavator needs room to move around, so it’s a great choice for larger properties.
But what if you’ve got a smaller lot or tight access (like many homes in Del Mar, Encinitas, or Solana Beach)? In those cases, a smaller excavator might be a better fit, though it might take a bit more time to finish the job.
For most pool projects—especially larger ones in places like San Diego County, where soil conditions can vary—a full-sized excavator is usually your best bet. It’ll help get the job done quickly and efficiently, no matter how deep or tricky the digging might be.
Not sure what size is right for you? It’s always a good idea to have a professional take a look at your property. They can recommend the best equipment for your specific needs, helping you avoid delays or extra costs.
Excavating a pool creates a surprising amount of dirt! Planning ahead for how you’ll handle that soil—whether removing or repurposing it—is an important part of the process. The amount of dirt depends on the size, shape, and depth of your pool, but let’s take a closer look at what to expect.
There’s a simple way to estimate how much dirt will come out. For a standard rectangular pool, you can use the basic formula: length × width × depth = volume.
For example: Imagine a pool that’s 15 feet wide, 30 feet long, and 6 feet deep. That’ll give you around 2,700 cubic feet of dirt. Since 1 cubic yard equals 27 cubic feet, that’s roughly 100 cubic yards of soil you’ll need to deal with.
If your pool has a more complex shape (like a kidney design) or includes a deep end, you can expect to have even more dirt to manage.
Once the dirt is excavated, you’ll need to figure out what to do with it. Here are a couple of options:
Not all soil is the same! The type of soil on your property can affect how easily it’s removed and how much of it there is:
When budgeting for your pool, don’t forget to factor in the cost of dirt removal. It’s typically priced by the cubic yard, and the cost can vary based on how far the soil needs to be hauled, local regulations, and any landfill fees. Depending on how much dirt you’re moving, the costs can add up—so it’s good to plan ahead.
When it comes to digging a pool, picking the right size excavator makes all the difference. The size of the pool, the type of soil, and how easy it is to access your yard all factor into the decision. Let’s look at what you should keep in mind:
Think about how big your pool will be. For larger pools (like 15×30 feet or bigger), you’ll want a full-sized excavator. These machines are powerful, able to dig deep and move large amounts of soil quickly. If your pool has a deep end or a more complex design, you’ll definitely need the extra muscle.
For smaller or medium-sized pools, you might get away with a smaller excavator, but keep in mind that full-sized machines usually get the job done faster, even for standard pool sizes.
What’s the ground like where you’re digging? In coastal areas like San Diego, Oceanside, or Carlsbad, sandy soils are easier to work with. You could use smaller equipment, but a full-sized excavator will still speed things up and save time.
On the other hand, if you’re digging in areas with tougher, clay-rich, or rocky soil—like Rancho Santa Fe or La Cresta—you’ll need a bigger, more powerful machine to get through that dense ground. Smaller equipment might struggle and take much longer.
Got plenty of space to work with? A full-sized excavator needs room to move around, so it’s a great choice for larger properties.
But what if you’ve got a smaller lot or tight access (like many homes in Del Mar, Encinitas, or Solana Beach)? In those cases, a smaller excavator might be a better fit, though it might take a bit more time to finish the job.
For most pool projects—especially larger ones in places like San Diego County, where soil conditions can vary—a full-sized excavator is usually your best bet. It’ll help get the job done quickly and efficiently, no matter how deep or tricky the digging might be.
Not sure what size is right for you? It’s always a good idea to have a professional take a look at your property. They can recommend the best equipment for your specific needs, helping you avoid delays or extra costs.
While above-ground pools don’t need deep digging like inground pools, preparing the site properly is still super important to make sure your pool stays stable over time. Plus, it’s a good idea to check if you need any local permits before you start. Let’s go through the steps to get your site ready:
Use stakes and string to outline the exact size of your pool. Be sure to leave a little extra space around the edges so you have room to work when installing the pool.
Before you start digging, make sure you don’t need any local permits. Here’s what to check:
Once the ground is level and the excess dirt is cleared:
Lay down a pool pad or tarp over the base. This will protect the pool liner from damage and add a bit of extra cushioning for the bottom of the pool.
Before moving forward with installing your pool, double-check that the ground is completely level. Even small bumps or dips can cause long-term problems, like uneven water levels or added stress on the pool structure.
If you’re not confident about leveling the site yourself, or if the terrain is tricky, it might be worth consulting a professional. A well-prepared base is the key to a smooth installation and helps prevent issues down the road.
Digging your own pool can be a rewarding project, but it’s also hard work! While it’s totally possible to tackle the excavation yourself, it takes some serious planning, the right equipment, and a good understanding of your local soil. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:
Depending on the size of your pool and the type of soil, you’ll need the right tools for the job:
Good drainage is key to avoiding issues with erosion or structural damage later on:
Once the digging is done:
While digging your own pool can save money on labor, it’s a physically demanding job that takes time, the right tools, and careful attention to detail. For larger pools or more challenging soil conditions, hiring a professional for the excavation can save you time and reduce the risk of problems, like uneven walls or drainage issues, later on.