The first step to building a new pool is deciding whether it will be an inground or above-ground pool. This will determine how much pool digging and excavation you’ll need to do.
Before you attempt to dig your own hole for a pool, you might want to read about the differences between these two types of pools.
In this article, we’ll discuss the difference between an on-ground and an inground pool and answer some common questions about pool digging.
Inground Pools

This type of pool is built directly into the ground and requires pool excavation. When creating inground pools, it is important to determine exactly how much dirt needs to be removed beforehand. That’s why it’s best to hire a professional pool company to take care of this task for you.
These permanent fixtures add value to your property and enhance your landscape. Whether you choose river pools or an Olympic-sized pool, the sky’s the limit when it comes to inground pools.
The On-ground or Above Ground Pool

An on-ground or above-ground pool is just as it sounds—a pool built above the ground! When creating this type of pool, there is much less digging involved. This type of pool can give you the look and feel of a traditional pool at a lower cost. Moreover, since there is less digging, installation is much faster.
Which One Should You Choose?
When choosing a pool for your home, the truth is that inground pools offer more options for customization. You can choose from a range of designs to create a permanent fixture. While they may be more expensive to install, these pools are worth the extra cost because they add to the value of your home.
However, if you want to install your pool quickly, you can choose from a range of above-ground pools. Ultimately, the pool you choose depends on your personal preferences, budget, and needs.
Depending on your state’s guidelines, there are certain requirements that need to be followed when building a pool. Make sure to read Arizona’s pool safety guidelines here.
Frequently Asked Questions

In the section below, we answer some of the most-asked questions about pool construction.
1. How Much of the Cost of a Pool Goes To Digging?
Excavation will take up most of the budget when it comes to building a pool. This is because it is the most important part of the process and the pool builder you hire will use heavy machinery to start digging, which can be costly to hire.
[Read: 2022 Pool Excavation Cost In Arizona]
2. What Do You Use to Dig a Pool?
An excavator or backhoe is used at the pool site to dig up the ground.
3. How Do Professionals Dig a Hole for a Pool?
Before a contractor can begin your pool project, they will first assess and mark the underground utilities. Next, they will go over the design with you and mark the pool area before removing any grass and dirt covering the spot.
After that, a technician will mark the area with string lines and stakes before digging up the ground in the deep end of the pool. Once the shallow end has been completed, the company will remove the land with a dump truck.
[Read: Swimming Pool Excavation: 4 Things To Ask Your Contractor]
4. How Hard Is It to Dig Your Own Swimming Pool?
While it is possible to build your own pool in your backyard, you can actually save money and time by hiring a professional.
That’s because to do it yourself, you’ll need to buy your own tools, including a range of flat shovels, drills, rakes, and more, as well as materials. Then there’s labor. Since most pools excavated manually generally take a long time, you can expect to pay a lot for labor.
Moreover, you may be met with unexpected challenges. You could hit a rock before getting to the pool bottom, for example, or encounter groundwater. A professional will have the skills and experience to handle these issues.
[Read: Pool Excavation Contractors Near Me: Are They Worth Hiring?]
Need Pool Digging and Excavation? Contact Specialty Grading Today!
If you need a reliable service provider to help you with pool excavation, give us a call! At Specialty Grading, we have decades of experience creating inground and above-ground pools, so give us a call today at +1-928-899-8313 for a free estimate!

Specialty Grading
We are a family-owned and operated business in different areas of Yavapai County such as Prescott, Prescott Valley, Dewey, and Chino Valley for over 20 years since 1995. With the help of our certified and licensed excavating and grading contractors, we take pride in providing our customers with efficient services and excellent value.