Thinking about building a pool in Katy, Fulshear, Cypress, or the surrounding areas? You’re not alone. Texas homeowners are investing in outdoor living more than ever—but before you break ground, it’s critical to know what goes into a custom pool project.
At Sunset Pools, we’ve designed and built hundreds of luxury pools across Southeast Texas. Whether you’re dreaming of a resort-style escape or a sleek, modern design, here’s what you need to know before building your dream pool.
1. Set Your Budget Early (And Be Realistic)
Custom pools can range significantly in cost depending on design, features, materials, and site conditions. A basic pool may start in the $60K–$90K range, while luxury builds with spas, water features, and outdoor kitchens can exceed $200K.
💡 Pro Tip: Factor in not just the pool itself, but also decking, landscaping, fencing, automation, and utilities.
🔗 Curious about pricing? Use our Pool Cost Calculator to get a personalized estimate based on your dream design.
2. Know Your HOA & City Requirements
Different neighborhoods and cities have specific setback rules, height restrictions, and permitting timelines. In places like Katy and Cypress, HOA approval is often required before a builder can begin.
📋 Sunset Pools handles permitting for you—but it’s helpful to have plat maps, property surveys, and easements ready during your consultation.
3. Choose the Right Builder (Not Just the Cheapest)
Your builder will shape one of the biggest investments in your home. Look for:
- Proven experience in your area
- Transparent pricing and contracts
- Design creativity
- Strong communication
- Reliable project timelines
- A physical showroom you can visit to see finishes, features, and sample builds
- A high Google rating with real customer reviews
🔍 Sunset Difference: We’re locally owned, design-forward, and have completed award-winning pools across Fulshear, Cypress, Richmond, and beyond.
4. Understand the Timeline (It’s Not Overnight)
Most custom pool projects take 8–14 weeks once construction begins. Add 4–8 weeks on top of that for design, permitting, and approvals from the day you sign your contract—depending on HOA approval timelines and local permit requirements.
🕒 Not all subdivisions require HOA approval, but if yours does, starting early ensures no unnecessary delays.
5. Design Should Reflect Your Lifestyle
It’s easy to fall into the Pinterest rabbit hole (and we’ve got a fantastic Pinterest account to get you inspired!)—but the most successful pool designs are the ones that are tailored to you.
Ask yourself:
- Do you entertain? Add a swim-up bar or outdoor kitchen.
- Want quiet evenings? Opt for fire bowls and mood lighting.
- Have kids? Include shallow areas and tanning ledges.
🎯 We custom-design every project based on your lifestyle, space, and long-term vision.
6. Plan for More Than Just the Pool
Pool projects often include:
- Decking or pavers
- Drainage solutions
- Shade structures or pergolas
- Retaining walls or elevation grading
- Automation systems
🧠 The more integrated your plan is from the start, the more cohesive (and cost-efficient) the final build will be.
7. Think Long-Term: Maintenance, Warranties & Value
Ask about:
- Equipment warranties (pumps, heaters, automation)
- Finish durability (plaster vs. pebble)
- Long-term maintenance plans
- Smart pool controls (you can manage from your phone!)
🛠️ We offer trusted equipment brands and teach you how to care for your pool before handoff.
8. Elevation, Drainage & Site Prep Matter
Flat yards aren’t always as simple as they seem. Sloped properties may require retaining walls, fill, or drainage channels, which add to both cost and time.
📐 Sunset Pools will assess your lot conditions before finalizing your estimate—no surprises.
9. Be Prepared for Construction Disruption
Pool construction is exciting—but it’s still construction. Expect:
- Heavy machinery in your yard
- Some noise and mess
- Temporary access restrictions
👷♀️ Our team keeps communication clear, neighbors notified, and your site as tidy as possible throughout the process.
10. Choose a Builder Who Offers Full-Service Outdoor Living
Why stop at the pool? Many of our clients add:
- Outdoor kitchens + bars
- Lounge areas
- Fire pits
- Landscaping
- Outdoor lighting
🌿 With Sunset Pools, we help you style your space down to the last chair, planter, and light fixture.
Ready to Dive In? Let’s Build Your Dream Pool
Building a pool should be exciting—not overwhelming. At Sunset Pools, we guide you through every step with transparency, creativity, and a deep understanding of what Texas homeowners need.
👉 [Book Your Design Consultation]
👉 [Explore Our Gallery of Past Projects]
👉 [Follow Us @sunsetpoolstexas on Instagram & Pinterest for Daily Inspo!]
