How Much Does It Cost To Build Concrete Swimming Pool?
The national average cost for installing an in-ground concrete pool ranges between $60,000 and $100,000. The average cost to build a 12’ x 24’ in-ground swimming pool made from shotcrete with a tiled finish and basic equipment is $70,000. On the low end, some people pay $22,500 for a basic precast plunge model with a painted finish.  On the high end, a 20’ x 40’ fenced structural concrete unit with accessories and an enclosure costs about $320,000.
| Concrete Swimming Pool Cost | |
|---|---|
| National average cost | $70,000 |
| Average range | $60,000-$100,000 |
| Low-end | $22,500 |
| High-end | $320,000 |
Prefab vs Custom Concrete Pool
You can expect to spend between $22,000 and $55,000 for a prefab pool. Custom models cost $30,000 to $100,000. When deciding on a model, one of the main decisions you will make is whether to build a prefab one or a custom one. The main difference between the two types is in the way they are made. Prefab models are built and assembled in a facility and brought to the construction site to be placed as-is. Custom models are built completely on-site, in the shape and design you choose. Prefab models can also be made in a pre-ordered shape, but the sizing and design options are limited. Here is how much you can expect to spend to install an average-sized pool of each type.
| Customization Option | Cost (Installed) |
|---|---|
| Prefab | $30,000 – $55,000 |
| Custom | $30,000 – $100,000 |
Concrete Swimming Pool Cost per Square Foot
The average cost for a concrete pool ranges from $79.30 to $190 per sq. ft. for a prefab model, while custom models cost $120.50 to $312.50 per sq.ft., depending on various factors. Size is the main factor that affects the exact project cost. They are mostly custom-made, as they allow the swimming pool to be made in any shape or size. Precast concrete models are also an option, but they are limited in size and shape, so they are not frequently installed. The most common sizes homeowners opt for are between 300 and 500 sq. ft. Those that want a larger model can opt for a unit as big as 1,500 sq. ft.
Concrete Pool Costs by Concrete Type
Average concrete pools cost range between $79.3 to $185 per sq.ft. for prefab models and $120.50 to $312.50 per sq.ft. for custom models. The exact cost depends on whether your design is built in place or off-site and then shipped to your home. After deciding to build one, the next question is what type of concrete. Depending on the style and type of concrete pool you want, contractors can often recommend which will be the best. The chart below describes the cost per sq. ft. of the main types.
Precast Concrete Pool
The cost of a precast concrete pool ranges between $79.50 and $190 per sq. ft. Precast models are made off-site in a manufacturing plant using a mold in which the material is shaped. The finished shape is then brought on-site and placed in the previously dug hole. Because of the weight of the material and manufacturing process, precast is the only type of prefab concrete pool. They are also limited in size and shape. Because they have to be shipped to the installation site, their size cannot be longer than 40 feet or wider than 16 feet. Because of the quicker installation and smaller size, they are usually the cheapest type.
In-Ground Gunite Pool Cost
Gunite, or dry-pumped concrete, costs between $120.50 and $295Â per sq. ft. Like shotcrete, gunite is a material with a high concentration of cement and far less water than shotcrete or the cast-in-place type. Gunite is usually applied directly to the surface using a pressurized hose that pumps out the water and concrete. This material and building method are very durable. Pools built with gunite can last up to 100 years or more.
Shotcrete Pool Cost
If you want a shotcrete pool, expect to pay between $131 and $295 per sq. ft. Also known as wet-pumped concrete, the process involves pouring the pool material into a shotcrete pump that then sprays it out in layers via a nozzle. It is also known as free-form concrete, is highly versatile, and produces some of the strongest and most watertight in-ground pools. This type of swimming pool can last 50 years or more.
Cast-in-place Pool Cost
The average costs of cast-in-place pools range from $131.50 to $312.50 per sq. ft. For this type, the concrete is installed by first building a mold using steel or wooden planks. Then, the contractor pours in the concrete mixture and allows it to dry. This is one of the most commonly used methods for making an in-ground pool. It’s more expensive than prefab and gunite swimming pool options, but it also provides a more uniform shape and aesthetic look.
Swimming Pool Structural Concrete
The average cost for a structural concrete swimming pool is between $166 and $312.50 per sq. ft. These models use pre-made concrete slabs installed on top of existing structures, usually buildings or hillsides. This is a great method to choose for oddly-shaped units or those that are installed on non-flat surfaces. Because of the specific pool construction and installation process and the added need for concrete slabs, these are the most expensive option to build a swimming pool .
Visualize Your Swimming Pool With 3D Rendering
Visualize with Swimming Pool 3D Rendering!
Concrete Pool Costs by Type
Above-ground concrete pools cost between $18,000 and $84,000, while in-ground ones are $27,000 to $94,000. Choosing between the two is primarily a matter of style choice for the homeowner. However, one significant benefit of an above-ground model is that it costs less than an in-ground model to install and maintain. They are also easier to install than in-ground options as they don’t require excavation or lengthy installation. Unfortunately, above-ground models don’t add as much value to your home as in-ground ones.
| Type | Cost Prefab (Installed) | Cost Custom (Installed) |
|---|---|---|
| Above-Ground | $18,000 – $32,000 | $30,000 – $84,000 |
| In-Ground | $27,000 – $54,000 | $52,000 – $94,000 |
Above-Ground Concrete Pool Cost
If you want an above-ground concrete pool, you can expect to pay between $18,000 and $32,000 for materials and installation of a prefab model and $30,000 to $84,000 for a custom model swimming pool. Although the cost may be a big determining factor for most, above-ground options have their limitations. If you proceed with getting an above-ground model, make sure that you have a level backyard and that you know your municipality or homeowner’s association’s size restrictions for a backyard pool. These models also do not require digging. They start with building the walls and continue with the usual gunite-building process from there. However, they need retaining walls to support the weight of the water and prevent the material from cracking.
In-Ground Concrete Pool Cost
An in-ground concrete pool runs between $27,000 and $54,000 for prefab options and $52,000 to $94,000 for custom models swimming pools. It is more expensive than an above-ground one but has more options available in terms of shape. Besides being more expensive, they also take longer to install. It can take up to two months to build an in-ground swimming pool. Although they may be more costly to install and maintain, they add five to eight percent value to your home, unlike above-ground models that do not add value.
Additional Parts of a Concrete Pool
Parts for a concrete in-ground pool range between $11 and $3,500, or $4,029 to $7,700 in total. There are many parts that are needed. Without them, a pool would not be able to function and operate efficiently. These parts also protect swimmers by keeping bacteria, algae, dirt, and debris out of the water. Below are the most common parts and the price to install them.
| Part | Cost per Unit (Installed) |
|---|---|
| Return Jets | $11 – $35 |
| Main Drain | $23 – $75 |
| Vacuum | $320 – $550 |
| Filter | $550 – $2,300 |
| Water Pump | $900 – $1,500 |
| Skimmer | $1,800 – $3,500 |
In-Ground Pool Return Jets
The average cost for a return jet is $11 to $35 per jet. The water must be in constant motion to avoid the growth of algae and bacteria. The purpose of the return jets is to push the water back into the swimming pool after it has been filtered. Return jets also assist in circulating the water around, which helps the skimmers pick up the extra debris. They should point in the same direction, counterclockwise or clockwise.
In-Ground Pool Main Drain
The cost for the main drain is $23 to $75. The main drain is exactly what the name implies, the main drain of the swimming pool. It doesn’t drain the water but instead helps with keeping the water flowing. Most commonly located in the deep end of the pool, main drains help pull water off the bottom and other areas to push it through the filter. It also helps with keeping the water temperature balanced.
In-Ground Pool Filter Cost
The average cost to install a water filter ranges between $550 and $2,300, depending on the type of filter. The water filter is the second part that makes up the filtration system of a pool. Once the water pump has sucked in water, the water pushes out to the filter. The filter acts to clean the water of any fine debris or unwanted materials and then moves it right back. There are three types of filters: cartridge, diatomaceous earth (D.E.), and sand.
In-Ground Pool Water Pump
The average cost for a water pump is $900 to $1,500, including installation. A water pump is the first part of the filtration system. A water pump draws water from the pool, pushes it through the filter, and back out into the unit. The pump typically consists of two parts: a bucket with a lid and the basket that goes inside. Within the pump is a motor that spins to help suck the water in and shoot it back out.
Pool Vacuum Cost
Pool vacuums cost approximately $320 to $550. Filters play a major part in keeping most debris out, but they don’t catch all of it. Therefore, you will also need a vacuum. Vacuums can be used weekly to remove bugs, debris, and algae. You can choose from two types of vacuums, either manual or automatic.
In-Ground Pool Skimmer
The average cost for a skimmer is $1,800 to $3,500. Skimmers help to suck the surface water out of the swimming pool and into the filtration system. Inside the skimmer is a plastic basket that helps catch debris floating around. The basket traps the debris and ensures it does not get to the pump. Depending on how big your unit is, you may need to install more than one skimmer.
Concrete Pools Pros and Cons
Concrete swimming pools were once the most common type of swimming pool and remain one of today’s most popular choices for people. A few advantages of these are that they can be made in many shapes and styles, providing flexibility for the final look of the pool. They also tend to be eye-catching and attractive and are immensely strong and durable structurally. Unfortunately, there are some disadvantages. They can take a long time for pool installation and cost a lot of money in parts and labor. They can also cost a lot to operate daily, so take the long-term bills into account. Plus, some of the surface finishes can be rough to the touch. Another drawback is that it cracks easily. This is primarily due to bad installation, soil erosion, and not sealing the material during regular maintenance. Cracks in the pool can be repaired. However, if the damage is substantial, you will have to have the entire unit replaced.
Fiberglass vs Gunite Pool Price
Gunite is similar to concrete but is a dry mixed form of concrete, so there is a slight price difference ranging from $79.50 to $312.50 per sq. ft. Gunite has a price of about $110 to $378 per sq. ft. While gunite models are custom-made, fiberglass ones are made prefab and have a price of $85 to $300 per sq. ft. In terms of durability, a gunite model is a better choice than fiberglass. While gunite may be more durable, fiberglass is easier to clean and maintain because it doesn’t attract algae and bacteria as much as gunite’s porous surface.
| Material | Cost per Sq.Ft. (Labor Included) |
|---|---|
| Fiberglass | $85 – $300 |
| Gunite | $110 – $378 |
Cost of Concrete Pool vs Fiberglass
The average price of a concrete pool is between $79.50 to $312.50 per sq. ft. The average price of a fiberglass one is $85 to $300 per sq. ft. Concrete is the most common pool type, but occasionally some people prefer fiberglass because it is easier to maintain, uses fewer chemicals and energy, and is faster to install. Fiberglass models take a few weeks to install, while concrete ones can take several months to complete. Below is a table showing how much you can expect to spend for each of them.
| Material | Cost per Sq.Ft. Prefab (Installed) | Cost per Sq.Ft. Custom (Installed) |
|---|---|---|
| Fiberglass | $85 – $300 | N/A |
| Concrete | $79.50 – $185 | $110.50 – $312.50 |
Process To Get Concrete Swimming Pool Cost Estimate Report
Here I am going to share some steps to get your concrete swimming pool cost estimate report.
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