As the summer heat continues to crank up year over year, pools continue to be one of the most desired and sought after amenities a home can offer. A swimming pool can be either a temporary or permanent fixture in your landscape, which makes it a versatile option, even for those who may not own their home. Pools come in many different sizes, types, and shapes, which means that choosing one to fit into your lifestyle may be more difficult than you think. You will have a lot to think about and many variations to compare side by side.
The term swimming pool is one that is used loosely to describe all types of containers that hold water in them from the small plastic hard shells kiddie pools up to huge inground options. It should come as no surprise that the more complicated the design and installation, the more expensive the pool will be. Location, availability of materials, local codes, and design factors will determine the price of your pool overall. One thing you also want to think about is the required maintenance of the pool you choose too. You definitely don’t want to get a pool that you can’t maintain or dread maintaining as maintenance is a big part of caring for your pool.
If you are thinking about having a pool installed at your home, you will definitely want to take a look at the blog below. Here, we discuss some of the different pool options available to help you better inform yourself about what is available.
1. Above Ground Pool
Above ground pools are an excellent option for anyone looking for a family sized pool at an affordable price. One of the nice things about these types of pools is that they can be taken down and moved, if you decide to move to a new home. Maintaining other types of pools can be difficult in the winter time and an above ground pool tends to be one of the easier options, as they can be drained and put away in storage.
These types of pools are distinguished by their hard shells for the outer wall and lining inside. It is possible to purchase soft sided above ground pool options as well. Adding a frame or deck around the pool can help elevate the look if you are not too keen on the appearance of just a pool in the backyard.
This type of pool is an easy DIY project, or it can be done by an experienced professional. The average to have one of these pools installed in about $3,000 but can cost as much as $15,000 ore more depending on any additional add-ons.
2. Kiddie Pool
If you are looking for something really cost effective and just for the kids or a simple wade pool for you, then a kiddie pool may be the right option. These pools are usually either a hard shell or they come as a blow up. You can store these pools in your garage and then pull them out when you are ready to use them. They are quite convenient, but they are very shallow, so adults cannot “swim” in them.
These types of pools only usually costs a few dollars up to about $50 or so. In the off season, you can usually find these options in the clearance section, which means your next summer can be full of fun for very little.
These pools are also easy to maintain, as no maintenance is required for them. You do empty them when you are done using them and then just refill them with water when ready to use.
3. In Ground Pool
Buyers go crazy for swimming pools and most people expect a pool to be part of a home’s backyard simply due to the heat outside in some of the more southern regions. Pools are a nice addition to any home, especially in ground options. These types of pools are excellent for any age group as they are easy to get in and out of. Many people like to entertain around these types of pools, and they are often the center of any BBQ or kid’s party.
In ground pools are placed into the ground, so the entry of the pool is ground level with your feet. Essentially, you can just “walk” right into the pool. These pools come with a larger price tag than other options and can cost as much as $50,000 or more to install. It is very easy to spend $100,000 on a pool installation, so if you are on a budget, you want to be careful.
These types of pools are usually a good investment for any active family, and you will receive a return on investment when you sell your home too.
You will need to spend time maintaining this pool as it does require you to clean the filter and maintain the water. You can expect to spend a few hours weekly on this task.
4. Infinity Pool
Infinity pools are not as common as the traditional in ground pool option and are also referred to as vanishing edge pools, zero edge, infinity edge, and even disappearing edge. Infinity pools do not come in a standard option and each one is custom built to tailor the needs of the customer and are usually done to highlight a view that the home boasts. For example, if the home sits up higher and the pool can be installed to sit over top of an edge, this works best.
These types of pools can be quite expensive, so the average price is not readily available as it will differ for each individual. Infinity pools are not usually installed as an after thought and are typically considered when the home is being built.
5. Lap Pool
If you are someone who likes to swim for your health or are an active swimmer, a lap pool may be in your best interest, especially if you practice at home. These pools are generally installed for health and fitness reasons as opposed for fun and luxury.
These types of pools are not wide in size and are longer than anything. You would not be able to utilize a slide or diving board with these. Daily laps and workouts are best had here.
Installing a lap pool will cost you around $45,000 on average but can go up or down depending on your needs. Maintaining a pool such as this is similar to an in ground pool.
6. Spa and Pool
A combination spa and pool is a newer idea that has gained traction and become an excellent choice for homeowners who want a pool and a spa but do not have the room for both. They are great for smaller properties as they are smaller than traditional pools but also larger than traditional spas. These are used primarily for relaxation and even entertaining.
This option will run you anywhere from a few thousand dollars up to $20,000 or so depending on what you want. Maintenance is easy with these as they are smaller in size.
7. Saltwater Pool
If avoiding chemicals is your number one goal, then a saltwater pool may be the right choice for you. These types of pools are sometimes referred to as ocean pools and are an alternative to traditional freshwater pools. They utilize a specialized saltwater chlorine generator to turn natural salt into natural chlorine to kill off any bacteria and algae in the pool.
They do come with a bit of a price tag, and you can expect to pay similar to that of an in ground pool. Maintenance is also relatively close to that of an in ground pool, which means you will need a few hours each week to care for it.
Choosing the Right Pool for You
As we mentioned, the cost for a pool can range quite widely depending on your personal needs and preferences. You want to give each pool option careful consideration before you just jump into a decision to have one installed. Here are some additional things to think about:
Your Needs – we have said it several times throughout this blog – make sure your pool meets your needs. If you are going to use the pool for one primary purpose over another, choose the right type of pool to accommodate that. You really want to take this investment seriously and make sure your needs are outfitted so that you can enjoy your investment.
Maintenance Requirements – almost all pools will require a considerable amount of maintenance that needs to be performed. You should be prepared for this and expect to spend at least a few hours a week on it. You also want to factor in the cost to maintain the pool. Will you hire a company? What is the cost of chlorine? And so on.
Your Budget – even if you find yourself on a strict budget, there are inexpensive options out there for you. For example, you may be able to get away with a kiddie pool until you can afford the above ground pool. If your budget does allow, you may want to opt for the in ground pool with a deck and screen around it but if not, don’t be afraid to get a kiddie one to start.
Your Available Space – space matters when it comes to a pool, no matter the size. You need somewhere to put it ultimately and you do not want to cramp yourself and your family in the process. A large in ground pool can take up an entire backyard easily if you are limited on space. If you are someone who wants to garden or play family games outside, then keep this in mind as you choose a pool.
Can I Install a Pool as a DIY Project?
Yes and no. An in ground pool should never be done as a DIY project as it is too risky and can lead to serious structural issues. However, an above ground pool can be completed as a DIY project and many homeowners do it themselves. In addition, kiddie pools do not require expert installation and are DIY projects as well.
Consider Storage for Your Pool Project and Afterwards
If you have decided to install a pool, you may find self-storage to be of help to you. For example, you can use the storage unit prior to the construction project to keep any items out of the way of the contractors. After the project, you can store any pool equipment and supplies over the winter time to keep it safe and out of sight while the pool is not in use.