Backyard pools are an ideal structure that you may want to construct in your yard. But before you start the building the pool, you need to consider several things.
The styles, sizes, and materials used to build a pool ultimately define the cost of a pool. There are two main types of pools that you choose, above-ground and inground pools. Consider the advantages and disadvantages of the pool to determine if it is worth the price.
In this article, we will discuss how much it costs to build a pool, the factors you need to consider in the construction, and the advantages and disadvantages of having a backyard pool.
How Much Does It Cost to Build a Pool?
The cost of building a pool depends on its type. Inground pools cost around $36,700 to $66,500. Meanwhile, above-ground models range from $700 to $3,600. Bear in mind that the pricing is also affected by the pool’s size, style, and the materials used. You can also upgrade it by adding elements like slides.
Having a pool will not only add a fresh atmosphere to your backyard but also give you the advantage of having a space for recreation and relaxation. You won’t need to go out anymore as you’ll already have a pool at home. Like when building a backyard sports court, you can save time and money spent on renting a court for the rest of your life.
Although building a pool is pricey, you can get various advantages out of it. In planning to build a pool, you should consider several factors that affect the cost, such as the labor, materials, style, and additional equipment you may want to incorporate into your pool.
Note that having a pool means that you are required to conduct regular maintenance to it. That means you should be prepared for the upcoming costs, apart from the construction.
Costing Factors to Build a Backyard Pool
Pools come in two main types, above-ground and inground pools. Above-ground models range from $1,700 to $5,000, while inground pools may cost you around $20,000 to $65,000. These costs are estimated based on the materials used, sizes, and styles.
- Above-ground pools
Above-ground is one of the main types of pools. This type of structure is installed above the ground, and the materials used can be bought and installed by yourself if you have proper knowledge regarding how to do it.
If you want to do the installation yourself, you need to look for a leveled ground base that doesn’t contain hollows or obstacles like rocks. Moreover, it is highly recommended you hire a professional to help you install the materials for a durable and guaranteed product. Although DIY can save money, you can’t be sure it will last as long as a professional’s job.
The walls of above-ground pools are estimated to be around 48 to 52 inches high. Although these are considered to be the minimum measurements, if you want to make your walls taller, you can, but the cost will increase as well. Some above-ground pool materials come in a package. If you buy those individually, it can cost you from $500 to $1,500.
The total cost for installing an above-ground pool is affected by the size, materials used, and installation.
- 15×30 pool
- Materials = $2,000
- Installation = $2,000
- Total costs = $4,000
- 12-foot round pool
- Materials = $1,000
- Installation = $700
- Total costs = $1700
- 24-foot round pool
- Materials = $1,800
- Installation = $1,200
- Total costs = $3,000
Other types of pools and their total costs:
- 18-foot round pool = $1,850
- 30-foot round pool 2,450
- 12′ x 24′ = $3,300
- 15′ x 30′ = $4,000
- 18′ x 33′ = $5,000
Some above-ground pools cost more than estimated. Their price may range from $500 to $15,000 depending on the construction.
- Inground pools
Inground pools are probably the most widely used pools. In terms of durability and longevity, they are undeniably strong. This type of pool is more convenient to maintain but also more difficult and expensive to build than above-ground pools.
The total price of the whole inground pool construction goes from $25,000 up to $50,000. If you want to upgrade your pool by adding some equipment and elements like slides, lights, etc., the total may reach $100,000. The size and style also affect the final cost.
There are three styles that you can incorporate into the type of pool you want: concrete, vinyl liner, and fiberglass. The total cost for each type of pool goes as follows:
- Fiberglass: $20,000 to $65,000
- Concrete/Gunite: $30,000 to $65,000
- Vinyl liner: $20,00 to $45,000
Since this type of pool is built in the ground, you are required to excavate the ground. Note that the excavation costs may cover about half of the total amount you need to spend for a specific style of pool. For example, you will spend $65,000 for a fiberglass inground pool, and the excavation cost may range from $20,000 to $30,000 of the total cost.
- Small pool
Small pools are also one of the best options for your backyard. This type of pool is inground and, as the name suggests, smaller than a standard inground pool. If you are eyeing to construct this, you may prepare the final cost of $18,000 to $26,000, depending on the materials you are going to use.
Since a small pool is the smaller version of a standard inground pool, you can also construct it with fiberglass, concrete, and vinyl liner.
- Fiberglass: $23,600
- Concrete/Gunite: $27,000
- Vinyl liner: $18,000
- Lap/Endless pool
The total price cost of constructing a lap or endless pool ranges from $24,000 to $75,000 depending on the size of the pool. As with other types, the cheaper the total cost of this kind of pool, the smaller its size. If you plan to only spend around $30,000 to $40,000, expect your pool to be smaller. You can also install a pool current generator.
- Plunge pool
Plunge pools’ total cost ranges from $10,000 to $25,000. This type of pool may also fit your backyard if you have a small space. Since it is relatively small, you cannot dive into it and it is more designed for party purposes.
- Saltwater pool
Building a new saltwater pool is more expensive than converting chlorine ones to saltwater. A newly created saltwater pool may cost you around $30,000 to $60,000. If you have a pool but only want to convert it, then the cost ranges from $500 to $5,000.
The difference between a chlorine pool to a saltwater one is the process of chlorination. Instead of using chlorine, this type of pool uses dissolved salt.
Is a Pool Worth the Money? 10 Points to Ponder
Before you build a pool in your yard, weigh the pros and cons first. Having a pool in your yard may cost a lot of money from construction, repair, and maintenance, but you are guaranteed free recreation and relaxation without leaving the house.
- Installation cost
Before you consider installing an above-ground pool or constructing an inground pool in your backyard, you need to consider its cost. You may compare the cost of these two types of pools and see if it fits your budget or may not favor you. If you are not sure about this, think twice about the downsides and advantages a pool may bring you.
- Maintenance and repair
After the construction of the pool, don’t be surprised as you still need to spend more money on the maintenance and repairs. The daily opening and closure is also your responsibility. The installation of a pool in your backyard requires regular duties.
If you are wondering what maintenance and repairs you are required to conduct, these include possible leaks, filters, and many others. For the maintenance, you need to conduct regular water maintenance, which requires labor from an expert or someone knowledgeable. Bear in mind that water in pools needs to be cleaned up too, as it won’t stay clean forever without proper maintenance.
You will know if your pool needs repair as it will show you some malfunctions. Before you go and hire a professional to fix a certain problem, you better check it keenly.
- Responsibility
Installing or building a pool in your backyard is a great responsibility as you need to take care of it regularly. Asked yourself whether you can squeeze time to remove the leaves or any garbage you can see in the pool daily. Just note that your pool will require proper maintenance, not from an expert, but from you.
- Allocate space in your yard
If you want to install a pool in your yard, you need to allocate space for it. If you are fine with losing space in your backyard, then you don’t have to worry about this. But before you decide, think about the space it will consume that may not be used for a long time.
Pools are rarely used except when there is some family or friend’s entertainment, such as during parties.
- Bacteria
As pools are used by several people, the presence of bacteria is probable. Some people tend to urinate in the pool, which you may never know. If you have guests, chances are that they are too lazy to go to the bathroom and just urinate there.
Even if you maintain your pool with chlorine, several bacteria can resist the effects of this chemical. Beware of these circumstances as they can bring diseases.
- Recreation
Now that we’ve talked about the disadvantages, let’s look into some of the benefits of having a pool in your yard. If you have a pool in your house, you don’t need to go out and look for recreation together with your family and friends. It’s free and available every time you want to have fun.
- Relaxation
If you’re on vacation and don’t want to go far away, a pool in your backyard can help you with that. Stay at home, chill, and relax without stressing yourself from carrying heavy items. It’s a good option for you, especially if you are a homebody.
- Swimming
There are positives and negatives in this factor you need to consider. If you have a pool, you can teach yourself and your kids to swim. However, it can also cause a person to drown. On the lighter side, you should be watchful to kids in the pool to prevent these circumstances from happening.
- Refreshing atmosphere
We can’t deny the fact that pools refresh us. It’s like bringing the summer season close to you. If you are living in a hot country or area, a pool can help you cool down by plunging into it.
- Community
Not all people have a pool in their yards. If you own one, there is a high possibility your neighbors and the people in your community will know you for it. In this way, you can invite them to your pool to create stronger bonds and friendships.
Your friends, family, and even coworkers can visit your house and spend time on team building or having fun after a stressful week.
Conclusion
Backyard pools are unique and interesting structures you may want to invest in. Aside from receiving free benefits on the recreation and fun aspects, you can ensure that your pool stays for a while. You never know; you may still be able to pass it on to your grandchildren if you maintain and repair it regularly.
