Everyone fancies a pool in their home but when they look up the prices, they give up their desire. Unfortunately, most sources give inflated prices without a clear breakdown. The lack of transparency wards off potential buyers who assume swimming pools are too expensive. It is true that pools are not cheap and anyone who sells a cheap pool has compromised on quality. This begs the question, how much does a pool cost? Well, it depends
The type of swimming pool
Swimming pools come in different designs. These range from inground pools to above ground pools. Pools also differ in construction materials making the final price varied. Here is a simple analysis of how much different pool designs cost.
Inground vs above ground pools
These are the two primary installation options for swimming pools
Inground pools.
These are the most popular pools in residential and commercial spaces. Construction of inground pools is labour intensive. It involves excavating the ground, laying reinforcements and installing the pool. The entire process can last weeks to months. The cost incurred starts with digging, purchase of reinforcement materials and purchase of the swimming pool construction materials. Inground pools cost anything from $20,000 to over $100,000. The cost varies due to the pool size, construction materials and additional fittings.
Above ground pools
Above ground pools are inexpensive. They are designed as freestanding units and only take a few days to set up. With above ground pools you save on construction materials and excavation. However, the compromise is on size since the pools are designed to be small and shallow. The average cost of an above ground pool kit is $1500 to $5000. Other expenses are incurred for ground preparation and additional fittings.
Semi inground pools combine both designs but their cost are not too different from inground pools considering most of the pool is below ground level.
Concrete vs Fibreglass vs Vinyl
Material costs form the lion’s share of the total cost of the pool. Moreover, the material you use has implications on the lifetime cost of the pool.
Concrete pools
They are the most expensive pools in the market. They have a high installation cost and the total lifetime cost beats all other options. The financial pros of a concrete pool are only realised from its durability, looks and impact on property value. The upfront costs of concrete pools averages $50000 to $100000. Within ten years of owning the pool, you will spend around $30000 on maintenance and the figure increases overtime.
Fibreglass pools
If you are looking to save on the total lifetime cost of your pool, a fibreglass pool is your best bet. Although the pool has high initial costs, once it’s installed maintenance costs are almost nil. The initial cost that covers purchase of the prefabricated pool and site preparation is around $45000 to $85000. However, lifetime costs are low with a 10 year expenditure of around $4000.
Vinyl pools
These pools have the lowest initial costs. They are simple to install and have low material costs. However, maintenance costs are high. The vinyl liner is replaced every 5-10 years. Replacement coupled with repairs and maintenance accrue to $12000 in 10 years. Vinyl pools are more affordable than concrete pools but incomparably more expensive than fibreglass pools
Other factors that affect the cost of a pool are the size, the location and local construction licensing. Concluding that swimming pools are expensive is inaccurate. You can save money by choosing the right design and hiring professionals. Pools are affordable and their installation is an investment in your property.
