How Much Does An Inground Swimming Pool Cost?
May 19, 2023

How Much Does An Inground Swimming Pool Cost?

If you’ve been dreaming about a swimming pool for your backyard, you’re also probably wondering what the cost might be. Luckily, swimming pools are a great addition to the home, and, depending on the type, can last for decades, meaning the upfront costs you put out to install a pool will pay dividends for years to come.

When it comes to the true cost of installing a swimming pool, a lot of factors come into play. Speaking to a Narellan Pools professional will help you understand what to expect, but if you’re curious to know what goes into pricing a pool installation, read on!

The different types of pool construction

One of the first things you’ll have to consider is what type of pool construction you’d prefer to have. Generally, there are three types:

  • Vinyl-lined
  • Cement
  • Fiberglass

Typically, vinyl-lined swimming pools are the least expensive to install. While vinyl-lined pools are inground pools and require excavating the ground they require more maintenance than cement or fiberglass swimming pools. This is due to the liner having to be replaced every 5 years or so. While the installation process is fast, you will need to consider whether the upkeep and maintenance costs are worth it.

Cement pools are a popular inground option because they’re extremely flexible (you can make them as big or as small as you like and in any shape, you can imagine). And, because they are painted, you have the freedom to make them any colour you like and even add custom designs. However, the porous nature of concrete can lead to algae and bacteria growth. This means cement pools require more maintenance. They also have a labour-intensive installation process that can get quite costly and does require quite a bit of time.

Fiberglass pools, however, are an excellent option. They come pre-fabricated, meaning installation is quick and easy. Their gel coating protects the shell from UV damage as well as algae and bacteria. This makes them much easier to maintain and requires fewer chemical treatments. Their flexible construction also allows them to naturally shift with the ground around them, and they are less prone to cracking.

DIY vs hiring professionals

Once you’ve chosen the type of pool construction, you’ll need to consider if you want to attempt to handle the installation by yourself or hire a builder. Unless you have prior experience with pool installation, hiring a professional is always advised. It will save you money in the long run as they’ll be able to handle unexpected issues as they arise. 

Builders will also be able to handle:

  • Pool permits, which you’ll need to acquire before construction can begin.
  • Waste disposal, such as excess soil, shipping materials, and cut-offs (which you would expect from any other construction process).
  • Rocks and other obstacles, which can add to the cost of excavation. A local builder will also be familiar with the ground quality and will be able to anticipate major issues, working them into the budget before construction starts, making your costs more transparent.

Average costs of a swimming pool

When choosing your pool, you’ll have lots of options to choose from. These will affect the costs, but will also be dictated to the look and feel you are trying to achieve in the backyard landscape.

Generally, standard inground fiberglass pools can cost anywhere from $30,000-$45,000 and upwards. Typically, maintenance fees, spread over a 12 month period, range between $2,500 to $5,000. Each pool installation is unique, and a Narellan Pools expert will be able to outline the costs associated with your individual swimming pool.

How much the pool shell will cost depends on a couple things. You’ll need to consider:

  • The shape and size of the pool itself. Narellan Pools offers a range of shapes and sizes to choose from. The shape and size you ultimately decide on will depend on your personal preference as well as your lot dimensions. The design you choose can alter the pricing slightly, but it’s mostly the size of the pool that will impact the price. You may even decide to add a spa or splash deck to the pool. These will also ultimately affect the price.
  • The colour of your pool. Narellan has two colour ranges: Crystal Granite and our unique Marbleglass, which offers a premium finish that will look fantastic for decades to come.

Installation and maintenance costs

Once you’ve chosen your pool’s style and size, you’ll have to factor in installation costs as well as the costs of ongoing maintenance.

Swimming pool installation

A Narellan swimming pool is pre-fabricated and the shell is delivered to your home in one piece, ready for installation. That could mean, depending on the accessibility to your backyard, that a crane will be required to lift the pool from the flatbed truck into the yard. A portion of the installation costs will also be taken up with the excavation of the site, and, if there are rocks, this could affect the installation cost.

Pool-related equipment

When you receive a quote for your pool, included in the cost will be the equipment you need to run your pool. You may decide it’s in your best interest to upgrade to include mineral sanitation systems, eco pool pumps (which use less energy and run quieter) or floor cleaning systems and pool covers.

In Canada, it’s always a good idea to get a pool cover, as chances are you’ll have to close your pool for the winter, and covering the pool surface during its down-time will help ensure that the pool stays free of debris during the winter months.

The cost of running and maintaining a swimming pool

It’s a good idea to go into a pool installation understanding the running costs required to keep your pool clean and well maintained. Our experts can help advise on what to expect and what you will need. You may even opt to have your pool maintained by a professional who can ensure your pool is always in pristine condition throughout the swimming season.

Other miscellaneous costs

If you are installing a new fiberglass pool, it’s important to consider other ancillary factors as well. Each will have their own associated costs that will vary depending on your budget and design:

  • Landscaping the surrounding backyard area after a pool installation
  • Fencing (in many regions, fencing around a pool is necessary by law. A Narellan builder can both help you navigate the requirements and choose a style of fencing)
  • Decking and/or surrounding patios
  • Poolside furniture (such as loungers)
  • Accessories (diving boards, slides, fountains, etc.)
  • Pool heating options

There’s a lot to think about when you’re ready to install a swimming pool, but Narellan is here to help. We’re committed to making the entire process as transparent as possible and always discuss the costs upfront to ensure you know what to expect and to avoid any unnecessary surprises along the way.

When you’re ready to build your fiberglass swimming pool, enquire today to learn more about the styles of fiberglass swimming pools and the cost.


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