How To Save Money On An Inground Swimming Pool
There are three primary types of swimming pools on the market: concrete (also known as gunite), fiberglass, and a vinyl liner. We've broken down the differences between these here, including varying cost factors.
If comparing the same size, steps, depth, etc. the typical order of most expensive to least expensive for these 3 pool types are as follows:
- Concrete (most expensive)
- Fiberglass (sometimes can't compete due to size restrictions)
- Vinyl (least expensive)
While some people have an instinctive assumption that they wouldn't be happy with a less-expensive option, with the heavy impact of the pandemic and inflation on every industry including pools, many families are looking for a cost-effective way to get the home pool they really want, instead of being limited by the higher cost of supplies. This has led more people to look at their options and vinyl pool sales have soared as a result of what they are finding.
Pool Prices Increased Over the Pandemic
Due to Covid, prices for many supplies have increased substantially over the course of the last two years--including the supplies needed to build a swimming pool. Supply chain challenges have made it more difficult for businesses to bring in the materials they needed to even create the products not to mention keep them on the shelves.
Many pool companies--including ours--did not have enough supplies on hand initially to meet the steadily increasing demand as potential customers realized that they were going to be spending A LOT more time at
As a result, pool prices have skyrocketed over the past few years--and those are pricing changes that do not seem likely to come down any time soon. The timeline to put in new pools has also increased due to a higher demand for experienced builders, meaning installation prices have also gone up. Before you give up all hope for making your backyard dreams come true anytime soon, stick with us.
If you compare the price of a concrete pool to the price of a vinyl liner pool of the same shape, size, depth, etc., concrete pools have always been more costly. And unfortunately, thanks to the Covid-related cost increases, those prices are even higher now. Just the amount of concrete needed to complete the project alone can mean substantial increases, including a 3.6% increase in material costs during Covid. With concrete costs between $100.50 and $278 per sq. ft and the average residential swimming pool being 600 Sq. ft, you're talking upwards of $166,000 for just the concrete alone (not the pump, filter, other building materials, etc.). And that's before the pandemic inflation added another $6,000 for the same project (remember that 3.6% price increase we just mentioned).
