INGROUND POOL COST

Welcome!  We are excited to help you budget for an inground pool...so let's get started!

There are two things you need to consider when researching the cost of inground pools:

• The initial purchase price of the pool
• The lifetime cost of ownership associated with the pool.

First, let's take a look at the initial cost of fiberglass, concrete, and vinyl liner pools to get an idea of how much to budget for each.  Keep in mind that these prices will vary greatly from region to region.

Standard Fiberglass Pool Packages

A standard fiberglass pool package will typically run 38,000 - $90,000 including the following: 

The pool shell, delivery of the pool shell to the site, the pump and filter system, installation, gravel for installation, water to fill the pool, maintenance and cleaning equipment, and some concrete around the pool. 

Standard packages can vary greatly from company to company so be sure to ask specifically what is included.  It's surprising how often permits, water, delivery fees, etc. are not included in a company's base package price. It's also important to consider other details like warranties, the type of pool equipment provided, and the fiberglass pool manufacturer.  

Concrete / Gunite Pools: Initial Cost

Just to be clear, a gunite pool is a concrete pool.  Gunite is simply a way of applying the concrete that makes up the pool shell.  But when it comes to the initial price of a concrete pool, the primary difference is that there is no DIY option for concrete pools....for most people anyway. 

When comparing the initial cost of fiberglass, most people are surprised to learn that the prices aren't all that different.  The disparity in price between concrete and fiberglass isn't in the initial cost.

Vinyl Liner Pools: Initial Cost

Despite losing significant market share over the past 5 years, vinyl liner pools are still extremely popular in Canada.  This is undoubtedly due to their low initial cost, which is by far their most appealing attribute.  

Why Are Fiberglass Pools So Durable?

Modern fiberglass pools are so durable because of the scientific developments in the pool gel coat layer that have occurred over the past decade.  The gel coat layer is the part of the pool we see, touch, and feel.  Modern gel coats used on many fiberglass pools today will last decades, or possibly even a lifetime, thus eliminating the need for costly refinishing.  In contrast, concrete pools will require expensive resurfacing every 7 to 10 years on average.  

Why Are Fiberglass Pools So Efficient?

Fiberglass pools are incredibly efficient because the gel coat layer of the pool is non-porous, thus preventing troublesome algae from embedding into the surface.  This equates to less chemical usage, less time maintaining the pool, and the ability to run the pump and filter in shorter cycles or at lower speeds depending on the system.  This makes for substantial energy savings.  

To sum it up, you will have significantly less maintenance and repair expenses with a fiberglass pool.  Couple that with the lower cost of chemicals and energy usage and you have, far and away, the most affordable pool to own on the planet!

So there you have it.  Inground Pool Pricing in a nutshell.  Below you'll find links to other Pool Pricing articles we've produced.  Be sure to check out the other six questions below to continue your journey to find the perfect pool.