An inground pool is an excellent permanent addition to your home. They are great for entertainment, improve the appearance of your backyard, and significantly improve the value of your home. Although inground pools have a long lifespan, they have a high installation and maintenance cost. Thus, the cost of installing your pool should be among the factors you determine when building one. A skilled pool builder can help you choose the installation cost, including creating the pool and all the additional features and accessories you need in and around it.
Although building an inground pool is an exciting venture, it could be worrying and stressful if you have to make all the decisions and considerations independently. If you lack the expertise of a pool builder, making mistakes is inevitable. However, an expert pool builder is all you need to enjoy a seamless process and excellent results.
How Different Types of Inground Swimming Pools Cost
Years ago, people had just a few designs to consider when building swimming pools in their homes or business establishments. Today, many other designs have been introduced, leaving homeowners and businesspeople with various options. Some of the designs are modern, unique, and beautiful. They are excellent additions to your home and can improve its appearance and value.
The various designs for inground pools also cost differently, depending on the materials needed to build the pool and additional features. A skilled pool builder will ensure you understand what is required for all the popular designs to help you make an informed decision. They will also discuss the associated costs and your budget to determine the most suitable inground pool for your backyard. Remember that the cost of an inground pool will likely be more than that of an above-ground pool. An inground pool also takes a longer time and more effort to complete.
Here are some of the popular types of inground pools and estimated costs for your consideration:
Vinyl Liner Pools
These are the most common designs for inground swimming pools today. They are highly durable and can last many years with proper care. However, they require maintenance and repair to remain in excellent shape and function. Building a vinyl-lined swimming pool ranges from $30,000 to $65,000.
Although the cost seems higher than you would pay for another design, like an above-ground pool, a vinyl liner pool is more cost-effective and requires lower maintenance than other types of inground pools. Its installation can be fast, and there are several design options. However, the liner must be replaced after a few years to maintain the functionality and appearance of the pool.
Fiberglass Pools
A fiberglass inground pool is pre-fabricated from a fiberglass delivered to your backyard and installed into an already-built pool. These pools are popular because of their flexibility, strength, and excellent finish. They have several benefits to offer, including low maintenance since they are usually sealed and do not require regular maintenance like other pools. Fiberglass pools are also quick and easy to install since fiberglass is prebuilt at the manufacturing point. They are also durable, strong, and resistant to algae growth.
However, fiberglass is slippery, so that it can result in accidents. Additionally, the construction cost is higher than that of vinyl liner pools. You will pay between $50,000 and $90,000 to enjoy these and many other benefits of a fiberglass pool.
Gunite Concrete Pools
These pools are made by spreading sand, cement, and water on a rebar framework. They are strong and durable and can be created in various shapes, according to the owner’s preference. They have several advantages, including durability, strength, and multiple designs and shapes. They are also easily installed in limited spaces and areas with challenging terrain.
However, a safe and strong pool requires an expert builder with the right sand, cement, and water measurements. Errors in construction can ruin the quality of your pool. The cost of constructing a gunite concrete pool is also high. It could start at $200,000, much more than you need for other pool designs.
Indoor Inground Pools
These are the most expensive pools around. The construction cost of an indoor pool starts at $275 in most places and can go up to $300,000. This high cost is determined by several factors, including the difficulties of building an indoor pool and the additional features needed to create a spectacular design. For example, an indoor pool will require sufficient ventilation, excellent drainage, humidity, and adequate building materials. Many homeowners prefer indoor pools because they can be used around the year.
Common Factors That Influence the Cost of an Inground Pool
Remember that an inground pool is an excellent addition to your home. It improves the general appearance of your backyard, makes it more functional, and enhances the value of your home. All the types of inground pools have a base cost, which is an approximate amount of what you could pay. The actual cost can be higher depending on other factors, like location and the additional features your pool needs. After construction, you will need extra decorations, features, and other functions to get the best out of your pool.
Here are the factors that will determine the amount you will pay for your inground pool:
The Pool Design
Remember that there are three main pool designs for inground pools. Your chosen type will determine the amount you should set aside for its construction. If you choose a gunite concrete pool or an indoor option, you should save more money than a fiberglass or vinyl liner pool.
Additionally, different pool designs require different features and decorations, making your pool more functional and appealing. These come with an additional cost, too. Although you cannot afford all the features available for your preferred pool, you need some features to make your swimming experience more enjoyable. Thus, list down what you need with the assistance of an expert pool builder for a better cost estimate.
Your Location
The cost of constructing a pool varies from one location to another. You will pay more for a particular pool design than if you lived in a different location. It helps to understand how your location affects construction costs for proper budgeting. Consider your location safety laws and how they affect the construction of a pool. In some places, mandatory safety-related additions could considerably increase your construction cost.
Also, constructing an inground pool can be difficult in some locations due to soil type and terrain. An experienced pool builder will have this information ready to help you with budgeting and decision-making.
Construction Materials
You should also consider the materials needed to construct the pool you need in your backyard. Some construction materials are more expensive than others. For example, a concrete-base pool will cost more because the materials required, such as sand and cement, are more expensive than fiberglass or vinyl.
However, consider other factors, like the strength and durability of your pool, when choosing the best material. Materials that will remain stable and functional for years are preferred, even though they cost much more during the installation.
Additional Add-ons and Fixtures
Building an inground pool is not enough to give you the exciting experience you need until you add some features and fixtures to make it the pool of your dreams. Remember that you must do this to make it the most exciting part of your home. The extra add-ons will also improve your pool’s appearance, functionality, and the general feel and value of your home.
People have all kinds of designs and customizations for their pools in mind. Discuss your ideas with your pool builder to determine their cost. Fortunately, you have many customizations for inground pools to consider today. Some of these are reasonably priced, while others can be very costly.
For example, you must consider the lighting that will give your pool area the look and feel you desire. It should be well-lit if you need to use the pool alone or with your family or friends at night. Unique lighting also makes your backyard more beautiful for evening relaxation.
Some people choose pool heaters to make their pool area accessible even during the winter. If you want to enjoy your pool outside during the summer, this is an addition you should consider and budget for. It is also a requirement for some homeowners, depending on your location. You could pay more for an inground pool to enjoy it throughout the year.
Other options to consider include machines that enable technological automation for your pool. Pool systems are available for all types of swimming pools, including inground pools. Some systems automate heating, lighting, cleaning, filtration, and other critical functions. These will make your work easier, keep your pool in good condition, and improve its functionality even after years of use. However, these additions will considerably increase the cost of your pool building. You can include them in your budget if you need assistance maintaining the pool.
Slides and diving boards are also available for homeowners who want to add excitement to their swimming. If you have children, slides will be an excellent addition to their fun in the pool. A diving board is also a great addition if you have a family. However, if you live alone, you can consider how often you need to use them before including them in your budget.
Pool Building
Expert pool builders are available since not everyone has the ability or knowledge to build their pool. However, their services also cost money. You must carefully hire a pool builder whose services you can afford. You must consider their skills, experience, and knowledge in building different pool designs to ensure they understand precisely what you need and can deliver it.
Adding some of the fixtures and additions you need in your pool will cost you more. The cost of a pool does not always include the additional features. Talk to your pool builder to determine their service and then budget for any extra services you need. For example, some pool builders will handle the installation process, not the lighting fixtures, heating, or sound system. Your pool builder can recommend the right people for all your services.
When choosing a pool builder, consider how long they are available for the job. A construction project will likely cost more if it takes an extended period. A pool builder available for the duration you agree on can save you a lot. If you have all the materials ready, they will take the shortest time possible.
Pool Maintenance
The cost of building a pool must also include maintenance. This is a critical service, as it ensures your pool is safe, functional, and in a proper condition for use. Maintenance costs could be high if you intend to use your pool regularly. A well-maintained pool will also remain functional for years and require less repair. Your pool builder will discuss maintenance and guide you on the right way to do it to avoid incurring more costs than necessary in the long run.
Find a Competent Inground Pool Builder Near Me
Building a pool in the backyard is a dream for many homeowners. It gives you an exciting place to enjoy your afternoons and evenings, improves the appearance of your backyard, and improves your home value. However, you must consider many factors when building a pool to ensure the end product serves the purpose you intended from the beginning. The cost of an inground pool is a critical factor to consider. It affects the size, design, and additional features you will include in your pool. An inground pool is generally expensive to build, and the cost can increase with the design and finish you want.
Working closely with a skilled pool builder in Jacksonville ensures you understand all the costs, making decision-making and budgeting easier. Our highly trained and experienced pool builders at Oak Wells Aquatics are willing and ready to help you make decisions. Call us at 904-619-3281 with your questions and concerns for guidance, advice, and support.


