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The cost of an in-ground pool varies depending on the pool material, shape and size. The total cost of an inground pool ranges from $28,000 to $55,000or about $50 to $125 per square foot. That’s an average cost of $35,000.
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Cost of underground pools
Those living in warm climates may find an in-ground pool necessary, especially during the warmer months. Others may consider it a luxury, and some even consider it an investment in their property. They are beautiful water features that add fun to a garden and add value to a home.
Unlike above-ground pools, in-ground pools are level with your yard. Before installing them, landscapers can dig and excavate an area for the pool. Then the pelvis is placed in the hole and the surrounding area filled in again to create a seamless pelvic area.
Cost of installing an inground pool
The average cost of installing an inground pool is $35,000 and can vary $28,000 to $55,000 and sometimes upwards of $65,000 for special adjustments and additional functions. An additional jacuzzi, for example, costs $6,000 to $15,000 and the pool lighting will be different $700 to $1,800.
You can either buy a package from a pool supplier that can include everything from excavation to decking, or go the DIY route. Turnkey packages for inground pools cost between $35,000 and $100,000. You can save thousands of dollars by doing some or all of the installation yourself, but only if you’re experienced.
For an inground pool installation, you will need to pay for the pool cover, rental equipment including crane, excavation, water, backfill, plumbing, and pool equipment. That adds up to tens of thousands of dollars in some cases. Compare the package price to this cost of installing a home build pool to see which is more cost effective.
Built-in pool costs by material
The total price of the pool installation depends on what material you use. In general, vinyl costs the least and concrete the most, with fiberglass in-ground pools falling in the middle.
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concrete
Concrete and injection molded pools look great, and their price reflects that. Unfortunately, there’s no good way to build a concrete or shotcrete pool yourself, so you can’t bring the price down here by doing it yourself. Turnkey concrete or shotcrete pool projects fall somewhere in between $50,000 and $100,000.
Cement pools are usually larger compared to pools made of other materials and therefore require more chemicals and electricity to maintain them. They also need an acid wash every three to five years to remove algae and mold.
After several acid washes, you may also need to replaster your concrete or shotcrete pool as the washes will peel off layers. Over a period of 10 years, specific pool owners can expect an average payment of $27,500 for upkeep.
vinyl
If you’re on a tight budget, an inground vinyl pool is a great option for a low upfront cost. Not only is the price of a vinyl pool bowl relatively low at approx $28,000but vinyl in-ground pools are also DIY-friendly.
The initial costs associated with vinyl pools are lower, but those looking for in-ground pool options should also consider the long-term costs. The average cost of maintaining a vinyl pool over a ten year period is $13,300.
Vinyl pool maintenance costs are less than concrete or shotcrete pools because vinyl surfaces require less cleaning. Algae doesn’t grow as easily on vinyl surfaces, so cleaning chemicals aren’t needed as often. And if cleaning is required, it can be done yourself.
fiberglass
The price for fiberglass pools is approx $46,000 on average. But the total cost may vary $28,000 for a DIY or self-install option on more than $50,000 for a turnkey built-in pool.
Many homeowners choose a turnkey installation and find it to be an overall better investment than doing it yourself. But every provider is different, so do your homework to determine which option works best for you. Consider project and material costs if you’re leaning toward DIY.
Fiberglass pool maintenance will be between $5,000 and $15,000 over a period of 10 years. Fiberglass pools are easier to clean than other pools and their smooth surface prevents algae growth.
Small inground pool costs
River Pools and Spas considers pools less than 26 feet long and up to 12 or 13 feet wide as small pools. Some examples are plunge and spool pools, which cost between $10,000 and $15,000 or more. Smaller pools are typically used for lounging or a quick cool down, not for strenuous swimming or play.
Built-in pool cost by size
In general, the price of a pool increases as the size increases.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
You can finance your pool with a pool loan. This can be a personal loan, home equity loan, refinance with a payout, or a home equity line of credit. Each has its own pros and cons, but all will help you afford an inground pool.
Do Inground Pools Increase Residential Value?
Yes, but you need to do your homework to decide if it’s worth it in your own situation. Real estate experts estimate that an inground pool can add five to eight percent to the value of a home. Consider the average cost of your home and the average cost of installing a pool to determine if the added value is worth it.
With proper maintenance, fiberglass pools can last up to 25 years. Concrete pools can last even longer – over 50 years. Vinyl in-ground pools are cheap up front and generally don’t last that long. Expect to replace a vinyl pool liner every 10 years.
