How Tariffs Could Affect the Cost and Timeline of Your Inground Pool Project

If you’ve been thinking about building your dream backyard pool, now may be the perfect time to move forward. With rising tariffs on imported construction materials poised to impact the pool industry in 2025, homeowners who start their projects earlier may be able to lock in better pricing, avoid potential delays, and maximize their investment.

While tariffs might sound like a reason to hesitate, they can actually be the motivation you need to take action—before costs increase further and contractor schedules fill up fast.

What’s Happening with Tariffs in 2025?

Recent federal trade policies have introduced or reinstated tariffs on a range of imported construction materials. These include:

• Steel and aluminum (up to 25%) – commonly used in structural elements, pool enclosures, and equipment components
• Lumber (up to 14.5% on Canadian softwood) – affecting decking, framing, and fencing
• Select Chinese imports (tariffs now as high as 125%) – impacting equipment parts, electronics, and finishes

These cost increases are trickling down into pool construction pricing, particularly on custom or premium builds where materials and finishes are a key part of the design.

But here’s the good news: many of these cost increases haven’t fully hit the consumer market yet—which means there’s still a window of opportunity to act before pricing adjusts.

Why Starting Sooner Can Save You Money and Time

If you begin your inground pool project now, you may be able to:

• Avoid Tariff-Driven Price Increases: Materials already in inventory or sourced from domestic suppliers may still be available at pre-tariff prices.
• Get Ahead of Construction Delays: As tariffs increase demand for domestic materials and labor, lead times may stretch further into the year.
• Secure Preferred Installation Dates: Pool contractors book up fast, especially once spring hits. Starting now means you can beat the seasonal rush.
• Plan Around Your Ideal Completion Timeline: Beginning in early spring allows your pool to be ready before peak summer, giving you a full season of enjoyment.

Tariffs may eventually increase pool construction costs—but they don’t have to increase yours, if you act quickly.

It’s Still a Great Time to Build Your Dream Pool

Despite the headlines, now is still one of the best times to invest in your outdoor space. With expert guidance, smart planning, and access to high-quality materials, you can move forward with confidence.

At Sunset Pools & Spas, we specialize in custom inground concrete pools—engineered for long-term durability, beauty, and value. Our experienced team will help you:

• Navigate material options that reduce tariff impact
• Lock in pricing on materials currently in stock
• Create a design that maximizes both your budget and vision
• Coordinate permits, scheduling, and installation before construction timelines tighten

We’ll walk you through every step of the process so you can focus on what matters most—enjoying your new backyard retreat.

Don’t Wait for Prices to Climb—Start Your Pool Project Now

With tariffs on the rise and industry-wide cost adjustments expected throughout the year, now is the ideal time to plan and begin your pool construction. Acting early puts you in the best position to control costs, avoid delays, and ensure your pool is swim-ready for summer.

Contact Sunset Pools & Spas today to schedule a free consultation and take the first step toward building your inground pool before prices increase. Let’s bring your vision to life—beautifully, efficiently, and on your terms.