In-Ground Pools in Pittsburgh, PA

Build the backyard oasis of your dreams with a durable and custom designed concrete in-ground pool. RMK Services is the expert contractor for constructing high quality gunite and shotcrete pools in Pittsburgh, PA.

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The Top In-Ground Pools in Pittsburgh, PA

A concrete in-ground pool offers unlimited design flexibility and a level of durability that other pool types cannot match. RMK Services specializes in the construction of steel reinforced concrete pools, using the gunite or shotcrete method. As a family-owned Pittsburgh company, we are committed to building with integrity and turning your vision into a stunning reality. Our licensed and insured team manages the entire construction process with expertise. We are dedicated to providing a 5 star service from excavation to the final plaster finish. Concrete pools are a permanent, valuable addition to your home, built to last a lifetime. Trust us to build a custom pool that will be the centerpiece of your family’s summer fun. We offer free in-person estimates for all new in-ground pool projects.

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John Daly
September 20, 2025

Side walk is fantastic! Ryan fixed my retaining wall no one else would touch. Very extra professional job. All his people were great also. Great estimate and greater work. I highly recommend him. He has been a blessing!

Clinton Eastwood
September 14, 2025

I love RMK Services LLC because they truly take pride in their concrete work and always go above and beyond to deliver quality results. Whether it’s driveways, sidewalks, patios, or foundations, they handle every project with skill, professionalism, and attention to detail. Their team doesn’t just get the job done – they make sure it’s done right, built to last, and looks great too. RMK Services LLC is reliable, hardworking, and committed to customer satisfaction, which is why I trust them with any concrete job I need.

Jason I
August 22, 2025

Ryan and his crew were absolutely amazing on every level including attention to detail and transparency with everything from a fair and honest quote to the level of craftsmanship performed. They worked at a fast and efficient pace while considering safety of the homeowner and his crew at all times. The difference is he listens to his customers and goes the extra mile to make them happy. I had my retaining wall reconstructed and I couldn't be happier. I highly recommend RMK services for all your project needs.

Chris T.
August 20, 2025

Excellent service from Ryan. He poured a sidewalk for us at our rental property and got it done on time and in budget. We'll be using his services again very soon.

Nathan B.
August 19, 2025

From the beginning Ryan was on it! When I first searched yelp for help with fixing my glass block windows, lentals, and repointing on my brick outside my house he was one of the first to contact me. He scheduled to meet with me fairly quickly, was on time and realistic with what work was needed to be done and offered it at a very reasonable price. He kept me informed the whole time on everything he was doing and ensured me the job would be done correctly. Would recommend.

RMK Services OFFERS In-Ground Pools IN Pittsburgh’s Top Neighborhoods

RMK Services provides professional In-Ground Pools for homeowners and businesses throughout the greater Pittsburgh area. Below is a full list of nearby neighborhoods and townships we serve, all within our 60-mile service radius. If your property is located in one of these areas, we’re ready to help you with In-Ground Pools:

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Our In-Ground Pools Service

Our process begins with a collaborative design phase to plan your perfect backyard pool. We work with you or your landscape designer to create a pool that fits your space, style, and budget. The biggest advantage of a concrete pool is the limitless design freedom. We can create any shape or size you can imagine, from classic rectangles to freeform lagoons. We also help you design integrated features like spas, tanning ledges, benches, and water features. Our team will create a detailed plan and 3D rendering so you can visualize your new pool before construction begins.

Once the design is finalized and permits are secured, the construction process starts with excavation. Our team carefully excavates the area for the pool to the exact shape and depth specified in the design. We use precision equipment to sculpt the slopes and contours of the pool floor. This is a crucial step that defines the final form of your pool. We also dig the trenches needed for all the plumbing lines that will run between the pool and the equipment pad. Proper excavation is the foundation for a successful pool build.

After excavation, we construct a complex cage of steel reinforcement bars, or rebar, that follows every contour of the pool. This steel grid is the skeleton of your pool and provides the incredible tensile strength of the structure. Our experienced steel workers bend and tie the rebar by hand, creating a strong, interconnected web. This rebar cage is what allows the concrete shell to withstand thousands of pounds of pressure from the water inside and the ground outside. We ensure the steel work is done to the highest engineering standards for a lifetime of strength.

With the steel in place, we install all the plumbing and electrical systems. We strategically place the pipes for the main drains, skimmers, and return jets throughout the rebar structure. We also run the conduits for any underwater lighting. All of our plumbing is pressure tested to ensure it is leak free before any concrete is applied. The proper placement and installation of the plumbing are critical for ensuring your pool has efficient circulation and filtration, which is key to keeping the water clean and clear.

The next step is applying the concrete shell using either the gunite or shotcrete process. These methods involve pneumatically spraying a high strength concrete mixture onto the rebar cage. Our skilled nozzlemen apply the concrete to build up the floor and walls of the pool to the specified thickness, typically around 8 to 12 inches. This process creates a dense, seamless, and monolithic structure that is incredibly strong and watertight. The concrete shell is then allowed to cure for several weeks to reach its full strength.

After the concrete shell has fully cured, we install the tile and coping around the pool’s perimeter. The coping is the capstone or edge of the pool beam, and it can be made from materials like precast concrete, natural stone, or brick. We then install a band of decorative tile at the waterline. The tile is not just for looks; it provides a durable, easy to clean surface that resists staining from sunscreens and oils at the water line. The choice of coping and tile is a key design element that adds personality and style to your pool.

The final step in the pool construction is the application of the interior finish. The most common finish is plaster, which is a smooth, waterproof coating that is troweled by hand over the entire interior of the concrete shell. We offer a range of plaster finishes, from standard white to colored plasters and durable aggregate finishes that incorporate small pebbles or quartz crystals. This final surface is what gives the pool its smooth feel and beautiful water color. After the plaster is applied, we begin filling the pool with water immediately to allow the finish to cure properly underwater. Our 5 star service ensures we leave you with a sparkling clean, beautiful pool ready for enjoyment.

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All Concrete Services By RMK in Pittsburgh, PA

RMK Services offers In-Ground Pools in Pittsburgh, but we also offer many other residential concrete services for homeowners across Pittsburgh. From new installations to full tear-outs and replacements, we handle everything with precision and care. Below is a complete list of concrete services available alongside In-Ground Pools:

Why Homeowners Trust RMK Services in Pittsburgh, PA

At RMK Services, we focus on delivering honest, high-quality concrete work backed by real experience and dependable service. From the first estimate to the final pour, our team shows up, communicates clearly, and gets the job done right without sales pressure or surprises. We take pride in treating every property like it’s our own and standing behind everything we do.

  • Licensed & Insured in Pennsylvania (PA License #203908)
  • Over 10 Years of Construction Experience
  • Free In-Person Estimates With Honest, Fair Pricing
  • No Upsells or Games; Just Solid, Reliable Work
  • Family-Owned and Operated in Pittsburgh
  • Serving a 60-Mile Radius Around the City
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Years in Business
5-Star Reviews
Satisfied Clients
Jobs Completed

A Homeowner’s Guide On In-Ground Pools in Pittsburgh

For Pittsburgh homeowners, a concrete in-ground pool is the most durable option to withstand our freeze thaw cycles. Unlike vinyl liner pools, a concrete shell will not be damaged by the ground freezing in the winter. The key to a long lasting pool is the quality of the steel reinforcement and the concrete application. When choosing a builder, ask about their experience with gunite or shotcrete construction. Also, consider the interior finish carefully. While standard plaster is classic, an aggregate finish is more durable and stain resistant, which can be a better long term value. A concrete pool is a major construction project, so be sure to hire a licensed, insured, and experienced local builder who understands our climate.

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Common In-Ground Pools Questions

An in-ground pool is a major investment and a dream project for many homeowners. A concrete pool offers the ultimate in design freedom and durability. Homeowners in Pittsburgh who are considering this exciting project often have questions about the construction process, materials, and long term ownership. Here are answers to some of the most common questions about concrete in-ground pools.

Gunite and shotcrete are two very similar methods for pneumatically applying concrete to form a pool shell. Both result in a dense, strong, monolithic structure. The main difference between them lies in when the water is added to the concrete mix. With the gunite method, also called the dry mix process, a dry mixture of cement and sand is fed into a hose. A separate hose line delivers water to the nozzle. The nozzleman then controls the addition of water to the dry mix as it is being sprayed onto the rebar cage. This method requires a very skilled and experienced nozzleman to ensure the water content is consistent.

Shotcrete, also known as the wet mix process, is a more modern and common method. In this process, the concrete is fully mixed with the required amount of water at the concrete plant, just like regular concrete. This wet mixture is then pumped through a hose to the nozzle, where compressed air is used to propel it at high velocity onto the pool walls. Because the concrete is mixed in a controlled batch plant environment, the shotcrete process provides a more consistent and predictable mixture than gunite.

Both methods, when performed correctly by a skilled crew, can produce an equally strong and durable pool shell. The quality of the final product has more to do with the skill of the installer than with the specific process used. Shotcrete is often preferred today because of its consistency and the lower amount of dust and rebound (material that bounces off the wall) it produces. RMK Services is experienced in both methods and will use the best process for your specific project.

There is no single “best” type of pool; the right choice depends on your priorities, budget, and design preferences. Concrete pools, made from gunite or shotcrete, are the top of the line option in terms of durability and design flexibility. Because they are custom built on site, you can have any shape, size, or depth you want. You can also easily incorporate features like tanning ledges, built in spas, and custom steps. A concrete pool is a permanent, structural part of your landscape and is by far the most durable option, especially in a freeze thaw climate. The main downsides are a higher initial cost and a longer construction time.

Fiberglass pools are pre-manufactured, one piece shells that are delivered to your home on a truck and lowered into an excavated hole. Their biggest advantages are the speed of installation and the very low maintenance, non porous surface. A fiberglass pool can often be installed in a matter of weeks. The gelcoat surface is very smooth, stain resistant, and inhibits algae growth. The main limitations of fiberglass are that you are restricted to the shapes and sizes offered by the manufacturer, and they can be difficult to transport to sites with limited access.

Vinyl liner pools are the most affordable option upfront. This type of pool consists of a metal or polymer wall structure that is assembled in the excavation, with a sand or grout bottom. A custom fitted sheet of vinyl is then stretched over the structure to hold the water. The advantage of vinyl liner pools is their low initial cost and smooth surface. The main disadvantage is the durability of the liner. It can be punctured or torn by sharp objects, and it will need to be replaced every 7 to 10 years on average, which is a significant long term expense.

Building a concrete in-ground pool is a major construction project, and it is a process that cannot be rushed. The timeline can be affected by several factors, including the complexity of the design, the permitting process, and the weather. For a typical residential concrete pool in the Pittsburgh area, you should expect the entire process to take approximately 8 to 12 weeks from the start of excavation to the point where you are swimming.

The construction process involves a series of distinct phases, many of which require time in between for inspections or for materials to cure. The initial phases of excavation, steel installation, and plumbing can often be completed in the first one to two weeks. After the concrete shell is shot, there is a mandatory curing period. The concrete shell needs to cure and gain strength for about 28 days before the next phase of construction can begin. During this time, the homeowner is often asked to spray the shell with water daily to aid the curing process.

After the shell has cured, the process of installing the tile, coping, and pool deck can take another one to two weeks. The final step is applying the interior plaster finish, which is done in one day. The pool is then immediately filled with water, which takes another day or two. The final week involves starting up the equipment and balancing the water chemistry. While it is a longer process than for other pool types, the result is a custom built, permanent structure that is worth the wait.

Yes, one of the significant advantages of a concrete pool is that it is an ideal solution for building on a sloped or hilly property, which is very common in the Pittsburgh area. Because a concrete pool is a custom engineered structure, it can be designed to work with the natural topography of your yard. This often involves building a retaining wall as an integral part of the pool’s structure. This allows you to create a level area for the pool and patio on a site that would be unsuitable for a pre-manufactured fiberglass or vinyl liner pool.

On a sloped yard, one side of the pool will be built into the hillside, while the other side will be built up out of the ground. The exposed, out of ground side of the pool is essentially a very strong retaining wall that is holding back thousands of gallons of water. This is where the inherent strength of a steel reinforced concrete structure is essential. These types of designs require careful planning and engineering to ensure they are structurally sound and can safely handle the immense forces involved.

Building a pool on a slope can also create stunning design opportunities. It allows for the creation of unique features like a vanishing edge or infinity edge pool, where one side of the pool has a lowered wall that water flows over, creating the illusion that the pool extends to the horizon. It can also create beautiful multi level patios and tiered landscaping. While more complex and expensive to build, a concrete pool on a sloped lot can result in a truly breathtaking and one of a kind backyard oasis.

The interior finish of a concrete pool is the waterproof plaster coating that is hand troweled onto the entire surface of the concrete shell. There are several types of finishes available, offering different looks, feels, and levels of durability. The traditional and most affordable option is standard white plaster, which is a mixture of white cement and crushed marble sand. This classic finish gives the pool water a beautiful, light blue, sky like appearance. The main downside of standard plaster is that it is the softest and most porous finish, and it may need to be replastered every 10 to 15 years.

A popular upgrade from standard plaster is a colored plaster finish. The same basic plaster mix is used, but a pigment is added to create a variety of colors. Gray or black plasters can create a deep, dark lagoon look, while blue or green plasters can enhance the water’s color. Colored plaster can be beautiful, but it can be prone to mottling or slight variations in color as it cures, which is a natural characteristic of the material.

The most durable and popular type of finish today is an aggregate finish. These finishes replace the marble sand in the plaster mix with a harder, more durable aggregate. There are two main types: polished aggregate and exposed aggregate. Polished aggregate finishes, like a quartz finish, contain small, colored quartz crystals mixed with a polymer modified cement. The result is a durable, stain resistant surface with a speckled, colorful appearance. Exposed aggregate finishes, often called pebble finishes, contain small, smooth river pebbles. After the plaster is applied, the top layer of cement is washed away to expose the pebbles, creating a beautiful, natural, textured, and incredibly durable surface that can last for 20 years or more.

A concrete in-ground pool is a premium product and represents a significant financial investment in your home. It is the most expensive type of in-ground pool to build. The cost can vary dramatically based on a huge number of factors, so it is impossible to give a simple price. The biggest factors influencing the cost are the size of the pool, the complexity of the shape, and the depth. A larger, more complex pool will require more materials (steel, concrete) and more labor, and will therefore cost more.

The features and finishes you choose also have a major impact on the price. Adding a built in spa, a vanishing edge, a tanning ledge, or a waterfall will all add to the cost. The type of interior finish you select is another major variable; a pebble aggregate finish is significantly more expensive than standard white plaster. The amount and type of pool decking, the sophistication of the equipment (pumps, filters, heaters), and the addition of features like automatic covers or advanced lighting will also affect the final price tag.

Site conditions can also play a role. If your backyard has difficult access for heavy equipment, or if extensive excavation and earth moving are required due to a sloped lot, this will add to the labor costs. Because every concrete pool is a custom project, the only way to get an accurate price is to go through a detailed design and bidding process with a qualified pool builder. RMK Services can work with you to design a pool that fits your vision and provide a detailed, itemized quote for the entire project.

Maintaining a concrete pool involves three main components: maintaining water chemistry, regular cleaning, and caring for the interior finish. Maintaining proper water chemistry is the most important task. You will need to regularly test the water for pH, alkalinity, and sanitizer (chlorine) levels and add chemicals as needed to keep them in the correct balance. Balanced water is essential for keeping the water safe and clear, and it also protects the pool’s plaster finish and equipment from damage. This is typically a weekly task during the swimming season.

Regular cleaning is also necessary to keep the pool looking its best. This includes skimming leaves and debris off the surface, emptying the skimmer and pump baskets, and vacuuming the pool floor. Brushing the walls and floor of the pool is particularly important for a concrete pool. This should be done weekly to prevent algae from gaining a foothold on the plaster surface. You will also need to periodically clean the pool’s filter by backwashing it or cleaning the cartridges, depending on the type you have.

Caring for the plaster finish mainly involves maintaining proper water chemistry. Unbalanced water can cause staining or etching of the plaster surface. It is also important to avoid using harsh cleaning tools, like a wire brush, on the plaster (unless you are treating a specific type of algae). With an aggregate finish, the surface is much more durable and resistant to staining and chemical damage, making maintenance a bit easier. Proper opening and closing procedures for the Pittsburgh winter season are also a critical part of long term maintenance.

A high quality, well designed in-ground pool is generally considered to be a good investment in your family’s lifestyle and enjoyment of your home. It can be the centerpiece of summer activities, family gatherings, and outdoor entertaining. The value of the memories and enjoyment a pool can provide is often immeasurable. It encourages an active, outdoor lifestyle and can turn your backyard into a personal resort. From this perspective, many homeowners find it to be an excellent and worthwhile investment.

In terms of financial return, a pool’s impact on your home’s resale value can vary. In many markets, an in-ground pool can increase the value of your home, but it typically does not provide a dollar for dollar return on the initial investment. A concrete pool, being a permanent and high end feature, is more likely to add significant value than a vinyl liner pool. A beautifully designed pool that is well integrated into the landscape can make your home much more attractive to potential buyers and can help it sell faster.

The key is to view a pool not as a short term financial investment, but as a long term investment in your property and your quality of life. A concrete pool is a permanent addition that will last for the life of the home. When you consider the decades of enjoyment it can provide, along with the added aesthetic and market appeal, most homeowners who install a concrete pool feel that it is a very good and valuable investment.

Get The Best In-Ground Pools Near You

For a free in-person estimate on your project, book a call-back using our 24/7 self-service system or call us directly at (352) 978-5567.

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