Building a swimming pool: What is a dip at home really worth?

If you’re after private leisure time while also increasing the value of your property, a swimming pool can combine both aims. One of the first questions that comes up, though, is cost: how much does it cost to build a swimming pool at home?

The answer depends on several factors. You should be prepared for a significant investment. And that investment is not only the initial outlay for construction, but there will also be ongoing maintenance costs.

Costs of a swimming pool: what influences the price?

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There are several elements that determine the cost of building a swimming pool. The main factors are:

• Type or model: installing an above-ground pool is usually cheaper than installing an in-ground pool, as the latter requires more planning in terms of the land and makes construction more complex and time-consuming;
• Labour: the more technicians involved and the more demanding the construction process, the higher the labour costs. This amount also depends on the professionals selected and how the work progresses.
• Size: the larger the pool, the more expensive it will be to build.
• Materials: the materials used also affect the price, as some are more economical while others are premium and come at a higher cost.

What is the average price of a swimming pool?

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Pool prices depend on various factors, such as the type of installation, the technique used, size, material and accessories.

Average price by type of installation

• Above ground/surface: as no excavation is required, these pools can cost between €2,000 and €12,000
• In-ground: the price varies considerably depending on the material and may range between €15,000 and €35,000
• In-ground infinity pool: as a more luxurious design, the average price ranges between €25,000 and €60,000
• In-ground with enclosure: construction, installation and the enclosure together can total between €25,000 and €40,000

Average price by material

• Fibreglass: the price varies depending on shape and size, generally between €10,000 and €30,000. Average durability is between 20 and 40 years
• Concrete: with a wide variety of sizes and shapes available, costs range between €15,000 and €40,000, and durability is between 30 and 50 years
• Vinyl: available in various patterns and colours, these pools usually cost between €10,000 and €25,000. However, durability is lower, typically between 10 and 15 years
• Glass: as a more elegant option, you may need to pay between €15,000 and €30,000. Durability ranges between 20 and 30 years

Equipment and other extras

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To the construction and installation costs, you also need to add expenses related to equipment, accessories and other extras. A plant room will be required, along with filters, pumps, water treatment systems, ladders and more.

Here are some examples and their respective prices:

• Pool pump: between €200 and €800
• Water treatment system: between €1,000 and €2,000
• Filters: between €150 and €600
• Ladders: between €200 and €500
• Automatic cover: between €3,000 and €8,000
• LED underwater lighting: between €500 and €2,000
• Jacuzzi: between €5,000 and €10,000

Other construction-related costs

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It’s also important to factor in everything you will need to pay before and during the construction process:

• Municipal licence (where required): between €500 and €3,000
• Architectural and engineering design: between €500 and €2,000
• Excavation work: between €1,000 and €8,000
• Landscaping around the pool: between €2,000 and €15,000
• Waterproofing and premium finishes: between €3,000 and €15,000

Annual maintenance costs

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In addition to all the costs already mentioned, annual maintenance expenses also need to be considered. These vary according to the type and size of the pool, as well as the treatment system chosen.

There is little room to avoid these costs, as regular maintenance is always necessary. Debris such as leaves and dirt must be removed from the water, filters need cleaning, and so on.

Average amounts you are likely to spend on each of these aspects:

• Technical maintenance (equipment and filters): between €100 and €300
• Chemical water treatment: between €300 and €600
• Domestic maintenance (cleaning): between €150 and €400
• Other extras: between €50 and €300

In total, you should expect to spend between €600 and €1,600 per year on maintenance.

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