Top 10 Things to Consider When Building a Custom Pool in Horry County (Myrtle Beach, SC)
Quick List
If you just want the highlights, here are the 10 most important things to plan for before building a pool:
- Permits & inspections
- Hiring a licensed contractor
- Soil conditions & water table
- Coastal-rated materials
- Realistic budgeting
- HOA rules & setbacks
- Long-term maintenance costs
- Safety features
- Landscaping & drainage integration
- Construction timelines
Now let’s walk through each one in detail so you can avoid costly mistakes and build your pool the right way the first time.
Building a Pool in Myrtle Beach Isn’t the Same as Building Inland
At first glance, installing a pool seems straightforward — dig a hole, install the shell, fill it with water, and enjoy. However, construction in Horry County and along the Grand Strand comes with unique challenges that many homeowners don’t initially consider.
Because of our high humidity, salt air corrosion, sandy soils, flood zones, and strict permitting requirements, pools here require more planning and better materials than inland builds. Furthermore, skipping early steps often leads to delays, budget overruns, or repairs later.
At Stroudswood Construction, we always tell homeowners: the more you plan upfront, the smoother the build will be.
Here’s exactly what to watch for.
1. Understand Local Permit Requirements First
Before design or excavation begins, permits should always be your first step. In Horry County, in-ground assemblies are considered structural improvements and must follow local building, electrical, and safety codes.
Additionally, inspections are required at multiple stages — including bonding, electrical, and final completion — to ensure everything is safe and compliant. Skipping this process can result in fines or being forced to redo work, which costs far more than doing it correctly the first time.
You can review permit requirements here:
https://www.horrycountysc.gov/departments/code-enforcement/permits/building-permit/
Therefore, always confirm requirements with the county before starting design plans.
2. Hire a Properly Licensed & Insured Contractor
Choosing the right builder is just as important as choosing the pool design itself. South Carolina requires pool contractors to carry the proper licensing and insurance, which protects you legally and financially.
Furthermore, licensed contractors understand inspections, coastal requirements, and structural standards that unlicensed installers may overlook.
Always verify:
- State contractor license
- Liability insurance
- Workers’ comp coverage
- References and past projects
If a contractor cannot provide these, that’s a red flag.
More on licensing updates:
https://www.wmbfnews.com/2023/08/07/new-sc-law-requires-pool-contractors-get-another-license-protect-homeowners/
3. Evaluate Soil Conditions & Water Table prior to pool installation
This step is especially important near Myrtle Beach. Because much of our soil is sandy with a relatively high water table, excavation can become unstable if not handled properly.
Additionally, groundwater pressure can cause structural stress on pool shells if drainage isn’t installed correctly. Over time, this may lead to cracking, shifting, or expensive repairs.
Professional builders often recommend:
- Soil testing
- Compaction
- Drainage systems
- Reinforced foundations
Although these upgrades add some cost upfront, they significantly improve long-term durability.
4. Choose pool Materials Designed for Coastal Weather
Salt air is extremely corrosive. Therefore, standard metals, fasteners, and fixtures often fail much faster near the coast than homeowners expect.
In addition, constant sun exposure and humidity accelerate wear on finishes and equipment. Using higher-grade materials helps prevent rust, staining, and premature replacement.
Consider:
- Marine-grade stainless steel
- Composite or coated hardware
- UV-resistant finishes
- Durable pool coatings
Helpful resource:
https://www.aquabluepools.net/blog/swimming-pools/marine-grade-materials-for-coastal-pools/
Spending more now usually saves thousands later.
5. Budget Realistically (Not Just the Pool Itself)
Many homeowners only price the pool shell and forget about everything else that goes into the project. However, decking, fencing, electrical, landscaping, and upgrades can easily add 30–50% more to the total.
Therefore, it’s important to plan for the entire outdoor space, not just the water.
Typical Cost Breakdown
| Component | Cost Impact |
|---|---|
| shell & excavation | High |
| Decking & patios | Moderate–High |
| Electrical & lighting | Moderate |
| Safety fencing | Moderate |
| Landscaping & drainage | Variable |
| Heaters/automation | Add-ons |
Local Ballpark
- Basic builds: $30k+
- Mid-range custom: $40k–$60k
- Premium features: $70k+
Proper budgeting prevents mid-project stress and change orders.
6. Check HOA Rules & Setbacks Early
If you live in a subdivision or gated community, your HOA may require design approval before construction begins. Furthermore, local codes require specific setbacks from property lines, septic systems, and easements.
Failing to verify these can delay or even cancel a project after plans are drawn.
Therefore, always confirm:
- HOA approvals
- Property boundaries
- Utility locations
- Required distances
Doing this first saves time and redesign costs.
7. Plan for Long-Term Maintenance & Ownership Costs
Pools are ongoing investments, not one-time purchases. In addition to installation, you’ll have yearly operating expenses that should be factored into your decision.
Average Annual Costs
| Expense | Range |
|---|---|
| Chemicals | $800–$1,500 |
| Electricity | $600–$1,200 |
| Equipment repairs | $500–$1,500 |
| Professional service | $1,000–$2,500 |
Understanding these numbers helps you avoid surprises and keeps ownership enjoyable.
8. Design for Safety from Day One
Safety should never be an afterthought. Even if code requirements seem minimal, adding extra safety measures protects your family and reduces liability.
Furthermore, many insurance providers prefer or require these features.
Consider installing:
- Self-closing gates
- Slip-resistant decking
- Pool alarms
- Bright lighting
- Safety covers
These upgrades offer peace of mind and improve usability.
9. Integrate Landscaping, Drainage & Outdoor Living
The best pools feel like a natural extension of the home rather than something added later. Therefore, plan the entire backyard together.
Also, proper drainage keeps rainwater from washing debris into it or eroding surrounding areas.
Think about:
- Patio layouts
- Shade structures
- Outdoor kitchens
- Privacy landscaping
- Water runoff control
A well-designed space increases both enjoyment and resale value.
10. Set Realistic Timelines for your pool build
Finally, patience is important. Between permitting, inspections, weather delays, and material lead times, most pool builds take longer than homeowners expect.
Typically, projects last 6–12+ weeks, depending on complexity.
Therefore, start planning months ahead — especially if you want it ready for summer.
Final Thoughts
A custom pool can dramatically improve your property and lifestyle. However, success comes from planning, not rushing.
By addressing permits, licensing, soil, materials, budgeting, and safety early, you also protect your investment and avoid costly mistakes.
If you’re considering one in Myrtle Beach or Horry County, Stroudswood Construction can guide you through the process from start to finish with quality construction built for our coastal climate.
👉 Contact us today to discuss your project and start designing your backyard the right way.
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