29 Oct How much does it cost to build a pool?

There it is, the $64,000.00 question! How much does it cost to build a pool? It’s similar to asking, “How much does a car cost?” Basically, a pool cost is related to size first, and upgrades/options second. Obviously, the larger the pool, the more it cost. Contrary to popular belief, a free-form pool generally costs less than a geometric or straight line pool, which makes the surface square footage less. Next is the size of deck. It is also based on size and surface square footage. Third is whether or not you want a screen enclosure (which is correlated to the size of the deck) or fence (which corresponds to the size of the yard). One or the other is required due to child safety laws, which state that you must protect your neighborhood from your pool. So there are the beginnings as to what goes into pricing a swimming pool.

Cost to Build a Pool:  Consider the Upgrades

Then, there are the upgrades and/or options that you may want for your pool. Do you want a spa? Gas heat, electric heat or solar heat? Salt chlorination? Elevations on deck? Waterfalls or other water features? What materials do you want for your deck (concrete, brick pavers, concrete pavers, travertine, flagstone, just to name a few)? Do you want or need automation (remote control)? How about white lights, LED color changing lights? For the interior of your pool, quartz or pebble and what color? I have a bar and bar stools in my pool, or maybe a table? As you see, the choices are virtually unlimited. The answer to almost every ‘can do question’ is Yes!  But of course, all of these will increase the cost to build a pool.

Average Cost to Build a Pool

Okay, you say, how much is the average gunite pool that you build? I would say that a swimming pool, decking and screen enclosure averages around $33,000-$40,000 with a few extras. Can is be less; of course. Can it be more; absolutely. That pool of approximately 325-375 square feet and deck of approximately 600-700 square feet could start in the mid 20’s and go up to the mid 70’s or more depending on what you want. Larger and more custom pools can go well over $200,000. So, I go back to my car analogy, do you want a smart car that seats two, or do you want a Mercedes-Benz that seats a whole family? The choice is yours, and most importantly, American Pools and Spas can design it and bring it to reality just for you.

-Sam Brown
V.P. Commerical Pool Division American Pools and Spas