Everything you need to know about adding—or renovating—your dream pool.
Everyone dreams of that killer backyard space that can be enjoyed all year round. And if your vision involves a pool, you may be wondering how to plan for a pool that makes the most of your lot while seamlessly integrating into your modern design aesthetic.
According to HomeAdvisor, the average new in-ground pool costs between $38K and $70K or between $50 and $125 per square foot. You won’t see a ton of price fluctuation by region, but you may see costs tick up during busy pool-building season, which is in the spring.
Different Strokes
The biggest cost factors (other than size and depth) will be design. Concrete-lined pools are the most common and account for the standard range in pool pricing. You can save a little by choosing fiberglass- or vinyl-lined pools, but you may end up paying the difference in maintenance, as they need to be renovated at around 25 and 10 years respectively. Choosing a saltwater pool as opposed to a traditional chlorine pool will cost you on average around $2K–$3K more up front, but you’ll save a few hundred dollars a year in maintenance costs.
Materials for Your Dream Pool
Your pool tiles will be big style statement makers. Use tile as an accent around the perimeter of your pool or at the entry area for a handsome yet cost effective approach. A fully tile-lined pool à la Hearst Castle will cost; Hearst Castle prices depend on if you are using ceramic tile ($1.50–$50 per square foot), glass tile ($7–$50+ per square foot) or stone ($5–$30 per square foot) When you interview or consult your pool builder, check out their tile selection early, as many contractors have a fixed selection. Or find out if they would be willing to order from a new vendor that you find.
The Bigger the Splash
Other hardscaping elements can add the modern vibe too. Breeze blocks ($10–$15 per square foot) can instantly add retro vintage appeal. Trim existing walls with them to modify the look. A small feature wall positioned to complement the pool can be a great option too.
Design bells and whistles can add the more eye-catching side of modern pool design. Things like fountains and waterfalls (on average between $1,500 and $3,000 each) lighting (around $200 a pop) and even your pool steps can be designed to add drama and a distinctly modern point of view. Other pool features like a Baja Shelf— that shallower platform area of a pool that is submerged under only a few inches of water—can be impressive custom features that will help you enjoy the pool the way you want to. Beach entries are another new pool design trend. This is a smooth and gently downward slope that allows you to wade into a pool rather than step down into it. Neither of those entry options should cost much more than your traditional entry design (around $50–$125 per square foot).
Bubblers ($550–$1,000 each) are a fun touch; these are a single pipe or series of pipes that blow air below the surface of the water to create a small fountain feature. This adds motion and sound elements, which can be a soothing feature for your backyard. In-pool cocktail tables are exactly what they sound like: small, usually round pedestal tables mostly submerged under water. Only the tabletop protrudes a few inches above water to provide a surface for pool drinks. Infinity edges are also a luxe touch if your pool orientation and property allows for it. Expect infinity edges to start at $70K.
Should You Renovate Your Pool?
Like any remodeling job, a pool remodel can be modest or grand depending on your wish list. As a baseline, all jobs will begin with draining the pool and refilling it. Check with your chosen vendor for those prices, but on average labor will cost around $60 per hour. With the rest of your must-dos ranging from function and efficiency to improved looks, here’s what you can expect.
- Lining repairs: $60–$70 per square foot
- Resurfacing: $2K–$40K depending on size
- Retiling: $3K–$60K
- Coping repair/replacement: $45 per linear foot
- Regrouting: $3 per square foot
- Replacing/repairing lights, steps or water features: $450–$2,000 each
- Skimmer or vacuum repair: $1,500–$2,000
- Pump repair: $600–$2,000
Looking for more inspiration on your dream pool? Scroll through our Our 10 Favorite Pools. And for more dream backyards and impressive modern landscapes, don’t miss our latest Exteriors issue!
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