To most kids, a dream house is never complete without a swimming pool. By now, you have likely understood that it is not something you can build in a matter of days, with no to little construction plans. A well-thought-of pool building plan can also take several days to finish, as there are lots of things to consider.
Costing is very crucial in planning as it is the major deciding factor in building a pool. The pool types, designs, materials, equipment, as well as the labor costs and maintenance are the key determinants of the overall budget. To get ideas on how much does a swimming pool cost, let’s dive deeper into these determinants for more feasible planning and so you will know how to distribute the budget evenly.
Cost Factors Budget planning for pool construction requires in-depth researches as the range of choices is too big, which can get confusing at times, even with the help of a builder. Knowing how to identify which benefits you most, based on your options, can help avoid additional costs. When properly constructed, you can get the maximum level of benefits a pool can offer. Aside from being a good source of enjoyment, it is also a useful tool for exercise and relaxation.
When considering the cost factors of building a pool, you have to first decide on the pool type and location: Whether you want it to be above ground or in-ground, choosing the pool type and where to install is pretty easy but is considered as permanent. Although you can still switch to the other options, it would cost more as it will require you to either bring down or cover up what you have and build a new one.
Next determinants that you may want to decide on is the kind of water to use, the type of filtering system, as well as pumps and other pool equipment. Let us not forget that we also include labor and pool maintenance to the budgeting process. Other than what mentioned above, prepare yourself for probable additional costs that may arise while building the pool or even after that to prevent construction and maintenance interruption.
Table of Contents
#1. Design
Indeed, choosing the pool design is the most exciting part, but if you will breakdown the details, particularly with the materials to use, costing can be overwhelming. To get closer to the ideal budget for pool design, you have to determine the size and shape of the pool, including the depth. Plan the design with consideration on its purpose, like if jacuzzi or kiddie pool is needed, should it be a little deeper so you can have a diving board, or if it needs to be straight and long for laps.
Surely, you will not find pools that look the same as the selection for surface designs is endless. To narrow down your choices, you must first choose the type of pool finish. Popular options are plaster, quartz, tile, vinyl liner, pebbles, and fiberglass. Additionally, choices for pool liners, coping strips, waterline tile, and stairs should also be on the budget plan.
Designing a pool must be meticulously done. A small difference can impact safety and water consumption, aside from the negative effect on the budget. Hiring a pool structural engineer may seem like an added cost today, but a perfectly planned pool design can save more in the future.
#2. Types of Pool
Commonly, they are called swimming pools, but in reality, they have different types and purposes. To help identify which pool suits you and your family, here are the two main types of residential pool that you can choose from:
- Above ground pool - A great alternative to an in-ground pool, an above ground pool is less expensive, plus they are faster and easier to install. The price may range from $5000 to $25000 depending on the type, which commonly are steel, aluminum, and resin pools.
- In-ground pool - Commonly constructed from concrete, fiberglass, and vinyl materials, in-ground pools are long-term investments as they can last up to 2-3 generations. While fiberglass would cost around $35,000 to $50,000 and would only require low maintenance, concrete pools are best known for their sturdiness yet may cost up to $60,000 to build. Vinyl made pools, although cheaper than the two, likely around $35,000 for a 12x24' pool, would cost much in the end as they need liner replacements every 3-6 years, depending on the usage and maintenance.
An in-ground pool largely contributes to the beauty and value of the house, which could increase up to 15%. It also offers different designs for more suitable purposes. For those who intend to use the pool for exercises and have big space, a lap pool type is the best option. An endless pool with a current, on the other hand, is the alternative exercise pool for those who have limited space.
An infinity pool produces a boundless visual-effect as the edges are not visible when you are in the water. The spool is yet another new type of pool that is very popular in vacation houses as it combines spa and pool. It does not cost much to build one, like around $25,000, but the cost to maintain is higher because of the electricity consumption from water jets and other hydrotherapy massagers.
#2.1: Outdoor Pools
An outdoor has its pros and cons, not only to the costs but also to maintain. Many people prefer an outdoor pool because it has more options for pool designs. Plus, it can serve as an astounding backdrop for your front or backyard.
Building a 10×10’ basic outdoor pool can cost about $20,000 to $40,000. Again, that depends on the materials and add-ons. A vinyl pool can range from $15,000 to $20,000, while concrete and fiberglass pool can cost $30,000 to $40,000. If you wish to have a gunite pool, prepare to spend more than $50,000 as they are the most expensive type of materials.
In terms of the maintenance cost, most pool owners agree that the budget for maintaining an outdoor pool is higher as compared to an indoor. Since it is situated outside, it is prone to debris and dust carried by the wind and falling leaves. Meaning, it requires more cleaning solutions and an extra budget for regular filtration system maintenance and replacement.
#2.2: Indoor Pools
The designs for indoor pools may be limited, but they are perfect for those who wish to use it all-year-round, be it summer or winter. Since it is inside a covered area, an indoor pool is easier to manage and does not cost much on maintenance. However, there are things that an indoor pool requires, like proper ventilation. Without it, the odor from pool cleaning chemicals can harm the residents’ health.
Power consumption for indoor pools is also higher. Aside from the filters and pump, an indoor pool likely to use a water heater as there is no sunlight to make the water comfortably warm. Having a pool dehumidification system is also recommended to control the moisture and to keep the right temperature and a balanced level of humidity within the pool area.
An indoor pool can be as cheap as $20,000, but it can go as much as $60,000. The thing is, the cost of building an indoor pool does not end with the pool alone. The area, including the ceiling, must be water-resistant as moisture. An automatic pool cover is also necessary for an indoor pool, and that may initially cost up to $20,000, including the installation.
#3. Saltwater vs. Chlorine
Regular cleaning is necessary to keep the pool hygienic and to maintain a crystal blue water. Two of the most used methods of cleaning a pool are through the use of chlorine or by a saltwater approach. Both are proven effective pool cleaners, yet they still have disadvantages. Saltwater is safer and gentle to use, unlike chlorine, which can be harmful to skin, eyes, and eyes if not applied with caution.
The installation of chlorine-based pool sanitizer is not as costly as the amount for a saltwater pool set-up. However, using chlorine as a pool cleaner demands an increase of $500-$800 to pool maintenance budget every year because a regular application is needed.
A saltwater pool is cheaper and will only cut less than $100 per year from your budget. Although, since the water moisture is salty, it can do damages to anything that surrounds the pool, like the pool patio and chairs, including the landscaping and fences.
#4. Pump and Filter
The water pump and filtration system are essential parts of a swimming pool. Together, they will keep the pool free from debris, algae, and other microorganisms. High-quality pumps and filters may cost more today but can save you from troubles and additional costs in the future.
When buying a pump, you need to analyze first whether your pool needs a single-speed, two-speed pump, or variable-speed pump. For an in-ground pool, a single water pump may cost between $300 to $500, while for dual speed pump may go up to $600. For an above ground pool, the price may only range from $100 to $200 for single-speed and up to $250 for two-speed. The variable-speed pump costs higher than the two, which is likely about $1300, but it is more energy-efficient, allowing you to save more on power consumption.
For filters, the choices available are sand, cartridge, and diatomaceous earth filters. Sand and cartridge filters are equally cheap, which is a minimum of $200, but do not expect too much as they cannot trap the smaller particles, which a diatomaceous earth filter can do. Double the price, but it is more effective as it can catch 5x smaller particles.
Another thing to add to the budget for building a pool is the installation of the pump and filter. The average price for water pump installation is $2,500. For filters, most installers require an installation fee of up to $1,000.
#5. Labor
The cost of labor will depend on the pool structure and additions such as jacuzzi, spa, kiddie slides, and waterfalls. A reputable construction company can guarantee a faster and more satisfying job but be ready for higher labor costs. Although they charge more than what amateurs will ask for, they provide warranties, as well as secured and safe construction procedures.
The construction cost for an above ground pool is, of course, cheaper it requires no to minimal digging. However, it is best if a professional pool builder does the ground leveling job to ensure the quality of work. Leveling and installation labor of an above ground pool would cost around $1,500-$3,000.
Excavation costs for an in-ground pool depend on the types of terrain. For soft soil, the digging job may cost around $1,000, but for rocky ground, contractors may demand as much as $20,000 labor cost. Other labor costs to consider are plumbers and electricians with an average hourly rate of $55.
#6. Maintenance
Like a brand new car, a pool installed by experts will not require immediate maintenance on pool liners replacement and resurfacing as they can last a minimum of 5 years. However, all swimming pool, regardless of their shapes, depths, and types, they require regular cleaning. Meaning, it will be a continuous expense for chemical solutions, filters, and such. As mentioned above, indoor pools are less likely to get dirty as they are not as exposed as those that are outside.
The pool maintenance cost depends on the usage, weather, and location. With the right cleaning approach, done every 2-3 weeks, this cost may go down by up to 50%.
Inspecting the pump and filtration system is also necessary to make sure the cleaning solutions will not go to waste. Overall, the annual maintenance cost for a swimming pool can be around $500 to $1,000. Furthermore, knowing how to balance the water with all the cleaning chemicals and water clarifiers can save up to 25% of the total yearly cost.
#7. Other Cost
Waterfall, fountain, water heater, lighting, are all enhancers, which can both add value and cost to swimming pools. With a starting price of $1,000, both waterfall and fountain can bring zen to the pool area. For a more dramatic scene, adding lights can be a great option. Regular lights would cost less than $500 but may double the cost if you get fiber optic lights.
You may also consider adding a water heater to your pool so you can have warm comfy water anytime you want. There are many selections available for a water heater, and the price may range from $1,500 to $2,000 depending on the brand and size.
Other enhancements that you can add to your pool are the automatic pool cleaner. They are effective cleaning tool that assists the filter in catching debris and microorganisms. They can be a suction, pressure, or robotic type.
The suction is the cheapest at the amount of $250 and below. The pressure cleaner draws its cleaning power from the pump and filter water pressure and traps the debris inside the filter bag. With the price range of $200 to $600, it is the most preferred type of auto cleaner. The most innovative one is, of course, none other than the robotic cleaner. The price may vary based on the quality, which can range from $300 to up to $5,000.
One more thing that you want to add on your to-buy list for an outdoor pool is the solar pool cover. It is a specially designed cover that prevents debris from getting into the water while absorbing the heat from the sun and traps them inside its bubbles so your pool will remain warm even at night.
Let us not forget that there are fees that you need to settle when building a pool, like a permit. It should cost no more than $100, but it will just be a one-time fee.
#8. Conclusion
The cost of building a swimming pool seems to be endless. Partially true because the maintenance should never stop. As you may notice, this guide is pretty long, and it just gives an idea of how much it will cost. It only indicates that building a pool is not just about setting up a tub above the ground or digging a hole and paving it. It has to undergo intensive planning for construction and budgeting to make sure your effort and money will not go down the drain.