Swimming pools are a fantastic addition to any backyard or property, providing a source of relaxation, entertainment, and exercise. When it comes to choosing a swimming pool, there are various types and cost options to consider. From in-ground pools to above-ground pools, lap pools to saltwater pools, the choices can be overwhelming. Furthermore, the cost of building and maintaining a pool is also an important consideration, as it can significantly impact your budget. In this article, we will explore the different types of swimming pools available, along with their associated costs. Whether you're looking for a luxurious in-ground pool or a more affordable above-ground option, this guide will help you make an informed decision that best fits your needs and budget.
Choosing the perfect size for your family swimming pool can be a challenging task, especially when considering various factors like shape, materials, and location. However, the size of your pool is a crucial factor that determines the overall experience of your outdoor living project. While there are several pool sizes available in the market, the most important considerations include the cost, design, and expertise of the builders. In this article, we will guide you through the process of selecting the right size for your swimming pool, and provide you with smart tips to ensure a perfect fit for your backyard oasis.
Determinations of the cost before having a Swimming Pool
Determining the purpose and cost of your swimming pool is an important first step when considering its size and design. While the initial desire to have a pool may be straightforward, there are many factors to consider when selecting the right size and shape for your backyard oasis. Your intended use for the pool will play a critical role in determining its size, depth, and shape. For instance, if you plan to use the pool for recreational purposes, it should have both a shallow and deep end to accommodate swimmers of all ages and skill levels. The recommended depth for most pools is less than six feet.
The cost of a swimming pool greatly depends upon several factors such as the pool's size, shape, material, location, features, and additional installations like pool decking, landscaping, fencing, and lighting. It's important to keep in mind that these are just estimates, and the actual cost can vary depending on the specific requirements and features of the pool. It is recommended to consult with a professional pool contractor or installer to get an accurate estimate based on your specific needs and preferences.
The ideal size for a family of six to eight people is generally an 18-foot by 36-foot pool, allowing ample space for games and activities. For smaller families, a 16-foot by 32-foot pool is more suitable for swimming and casual relaxation. Smaller backyard spaces can also benefit from a pool, with options available in sizes under 14 feet by 25 feet. The shape of the pool can also be customized to suit your needs, with rectangle-shaped pools recommended for larger families and free-form or kidney-shaped pools ideal for smaller groups.
If you are considering a pool primarily for lap swimming and exercise, a rectangular shape is the most suitable design. A minimum length of 30 feet is recommended to provide enough space for uninterrupted laps and other fitness activities. Along with swim lane width, depth, and other features are also important considerations. The Coral Sea and Whitsunday models offer spacious swim lanes for lap swimming, along with other features to enhance your workout experience.
For competitive and athletic swimmers, a pool depth greater than your height is ideal, and the pool should allow for complete strokes to maximize your efforts. In addition to serving as a training tool, a 40-foot pool can also provide great entertainment value.
“By carefully considering your fitness goals and preferences, you can choose a pool that provides a perfect balance of function and fun.”
Types of Swimming Pool With Their Cost
1. Inground Swimming Pool
A standard in-ground swimming pool, also known as a play pool, has a perimeter of 75 feet, meaning it is 75 feet around the edge of the pool. Although each of our pools is customized, a play pool typically has a rectangular shape of 28 feet in length by 14 feet in width, or a freeform design. One popular geometric pattern includes a depth that starts at 3 feet in the shallow end, goes down to 5 feet in the middle, and then returns to 4 feet. Another common configuration starts at 3 feet in the shallow end and gradually slopes down to 5 feet in the deep end. These dimensions are ideal for playing aquatic sports like volleyball and basketball. Baja or Sun shelves are also a popular addition to these pools to create an environment for play and relaxation. Due to its ability to fit into most backyards and its versatility for multiple activities, this is the most popular size of swimming pool.
Cost of in-ground Swimming Pool
In general, the cost of a basic in-ground swimming pool can range from $25,000 to $50,000 or more. However, the total cost can quickly add up if you choose to add features such as a pool deck, water features, lighting, heating systems, and landscaping. Additionally, ongoing maintenance costs such as chemicals, cleaning, and repairs should also be factored in. The cost of an in-ground swimming pool can vary greatly depending on your location, so it's best to get multiple quotes from reputable Pool Builders in your area to get a more accurate estimate.
2. Outdoor Swimming Pool
An outdoor swimming pool is a pool that is located outside, usually in a backyard, garden, or outdoor recreational area. It can be either above-ground or in-ground and is designed for recreational swimming, exercise, or relaxation. Outdoor swimming pools can be made of various materials such as concrete, fiberglass, vinyl, or a combination of these materials. They can come in different shapes, sizes, and styles to fit the available space and design preferences. Outdoor swimming pools are popular in warmer climates and are often equipped with features such as diving boards, slides, fountains, and lighting to enhance the swimming experience.
Cost of Outdoor Swimming Pool
Generally, the cost of a basic outdoor swimming pool can range from $20,000 to $40,000 or more. This cost typically includes the pool itself, basic installation, and standard features such as a pool deck, fencing, and basic landscaping. The cost of an outdoor swimming pool can vary depending on several factors such as the size, shape, materials, and features of the pool, as well as the cost of labor and materials in your area.
However, if you choose to add more features to your pool, such as custom lighting, water features, or more advanced automation systems, the cost can quickly increase. Ongoing maintenance costs, such as chemicals, cleaning, and repairs, should also be factored into your budget.
3. Spool Pool
A Spool pool, as its name suggests, is a small pool that combines the features of a pool and a spa. With the addition of a heater, jets, and benches, a Spool can function as a large spa, while still providing the feel of a small pool if you prefer. You could even add a Baja shelf for a comfortable place to relax. Spools are an excellent option for backyards that cannot accommodate a standard-sized pool, or for those who prefer a smaller aquatic feature. Typically, a Spool is 20 to 22.5 feet long and 10 feet wide, but the dimensions can be customized to fit the available space in your yard.
One of the benefits of a Spool is year-round usage. During the hot summers in Arizona, it can function as a pool, and in the winter, it can serve as a large spa. The design options for a Spool are endless, whether you want an area to relax or entertain. Additionally, you can build a Spool to help maintain your fitness goals by incorporating a jet to create a current to swim against.
Whether you are looking for a relaxing oasis, an entertaining space, or a way to maintain your fitness goals, a Spool may be the perfect solution for your backyard.
Cost of Spool Swimming Pool
The cost of a spool swimming pool can range from $10,000 to $25,000 or more, depending on the size, features, and materials used. A spool is typically smaller than a standard swimming pool and may include features such as built-in seating, jets, and waterfalls.
4. Cocktail Swimming Pool
A cocktail pool is designed for relaxation and entertainment rather than swimming. It is a smaller version of a pool and is perfect for cooling off while enjoying a cocktail. Unlike a spool, it is not equipped with spa-like features. Cocktail pools are usually plunge-style pools with a depth ranging from 3ft to 5ft, and they offer a refreshing escape from the heat. These pools are much smaller than standard pools, measuring around 24ft in length and 12ft in width.
Cost of Cocktail Swimming Pool
Cocktail swimming pool cost greatly depends on the materials and size used. Generally, a cocktail pool is smaller than a spool and is designed for entertainment, socializing, and relaxation. The cost of a basic cocktail pool can range from $5,000 to $15,000 or more.
5. Diving Pool
A diving pool is designed with a deep end on one side, usually ranging from 8.5 to 10 feet in depth, to allow for diving or practicing exciting jumps into the water. It is larger in size and depth compared to a play pool, ensuring a safe environment for diving. Diving pools often come equipped with a diving board, jump rock, or waterslide, providing a stylish entrance into the deep end.
Cost of Diving Swimming Pool
A diving pool is typically deeper than a standard pool and can be designed with a diving board or platform. The cost of a diving pool can range from $30,000 to $60,000 or more, depending on the size and features.
6. Lap Pool
A lap pool is specifically designed for swimming laps and provides a perfect environment for those who want to swim for exercise. These pools are typically long, ranging from 35 to 40 feet on average, and can even extend up to 75 feet in length with a narrow width. All dimensions of the pool can be customized to fit the available area in your outdoor space. If you plan on using the lap pool for fitness goals year-round, it is recommended to add a heating element to the pool to handle colder temperatures during the winter months, especially in areas such as Texas.
Cost of Lap Swimming Pool
A lap pool is a long, narrow pool that is designed for swimming laps and exercise. The cost of a lap pool can range from $25,000 to $50,000 or more, depending on the size and features.
7. Gunite Swimming Pool
A Gunite swimming pool is a type of in-ground pool that is constructed using a mixture of cement, sand, and water, which is then sprayed onto a steel framework to create a solid and durable shell. Gunite pools are highly customizable and can be designed in various shapes and sizes to fit the available space and design preferences. They also offer a wide range of finishing options such as tile, plaster, or pebble surfaces.
Cost of Gunite Swimming Pool
The installation cost of a Gunite swimming pool can vary depending on several factors such as the size, shape, design, location, features, and additional installations. Generally, the cost of installing a Gunite pool can range from $50,000 to $100,000 or more. The cost includes excavation, construction, materials, labor, permits, and any additional installations such as fencing, decking, landscaping, and lighting.
8. Heated Pool
A heated swimming pool is a pool that has a heating system installed, which allows you to enjoy swimming even when the temperature outside is too cold for an unheated pool.
Cost of Heated Swimming Pool
Some estimated costs for different types of swimming pool heating systems are:
- Gas Heater: The cost of a gas pool heater can range from $1,500 to $3,000 or more, depending on the size of the pool and the type of heater.
- Electric Heater: The cost of an electric pool heater can range from $1,000 to $2,500 or more, depending on the size of the pool and the type of heater.
- Heat Pump: The cost of a heat pump pool heater can range from $2,500 to $5,000 or more, depending on the size of the pool and the type of heat pump.
Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with ongoing maintenance and operation of the heating system, such as fuel or electricity costs.
General Estimated Cost of Different Swimming Pools
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Cost of Small Swimming Pool
A small swimming pool is typically around 10' x 20' and has a depth of 5 feet or less. The cost of a small pool can range from $20,000 to $40,000.
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Cost of Large Swimming Pool
A large swimming pool is typically around 18' x 36' and has a depth of 8 feet. The cost of a large pool can range from $50,000 to $80,000.
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Cost of Average Swimming Pool
An average swimming pool is typically around 14' x 28' and has a depth of 6 feet. The cost of an average pool can range from $30,000 to $50,000.
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Cost of Luxury Swimming Pool
A luxury swimming pool can vary in size and shape and typically includes high-end features such as waterfalls, slides, lighting, and advanced automation systems. The cost of a luxury pool can range from $80,000 to $150,000 or more.
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Cost of Fiberglass Pool
The cost of a fiberglass pool can range from $20,000 to $60,000 or more, depending on the size, shape, and additional installations.
Cost of Building A Swimming Pool Deck
The cost of building a swimming pool deck can vary depending on several factors such as the size, materials, design, location, and additional features. Here is a general breakdown of the estimated cost range for different types of swimming pool decks:
- Concrete Deck
The cost of a concrete pool deck can range from $6 to $10 per square foot, depending on the complexity of the design, finishing, and additional installations.
- Wood Deck
The cost of a wood pool deck can range from $15 to $35 per square foot, depending on the type of wood, design, finishing, and additional installations.
- Composite Deck
The cost of a composite pool deck can range from $20 to $40 per square foot, depending on the brand, quality, design, finishing, and additional installations.
Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with ongoing maintenance and repair of the pool deck, such as staining, sealing, and replacing damaged boards.
Cost of Swimming Pool With Waterfall
A swimming pool with a water feature such as a waterfall can add a beautiful and relaxing element to your outdoor space. Following are some estimated costs for different types of waterfalls for swimming pools:
- Natural Rock Waterfall:
The cost of a natural rock waterfall can range from $5,000 to $15,000 or more, depending on the size, type of rock, and complexity of the design.
- Artificial Rock Waterfall
The cost of an artificial rock waterfall can range from $3,000 to $10,000 or more, depending on the size, type of rock, and complexity of the design.
- Sheer Descent Waterfall
The cost of a sheer descent waterfall can range from $1,500 to $3,000 or more, depending on the size and style of the waterfall.
The Overall Budget For Having A Swimming Pool OR Need Financing?
When considering the size of your pool project, long-term financial planning is often a crucial aspect to take into account. Pools cost money to install, operate and maintain, so there is no magic number when determining how to plan for maintaining your pool for the long term. To ensure cost-effectiveness, it's recommended that you base your expenses on your usage patterns, location, and the maintenance schedule agreed upon with your builder. Additionally, you should factor in other expenses such as general pool upkeep, covers, fencing, cleaning, and chemicals, among others. Your pool size will have an impact on all these requirements, which is why it's important to determine the pool size or design that will best fit your budget. To minimize your initial expenses, there are several finance companies that offer to finance specifically for outdoor living and fiberglass installation projects. By utilizing this type of financing, you can obtain the pool you desire while freeing up funds for long-term maintenance and other related pool upkeep needs.
Summary
In conclusion, it can be said that selecting the appropriate size for your swimming pool, and determining the ideal size and shape of a swimming pool for your family can be a daunting task, as it requires considering various factors. However, an experienced swimming pool installer can assist you in making the right choice. They can guide you through different pool models that meet your needs and help you determine the best pool size that satisfies all the considerations mentioned in this article.