Affordable Backyard Pool Ideas On A Budget

6 Amazing Small Pool Ideas on a Budget

Owning a home with a charming swimming pool is a dream for many, and contrary to popular belief, turning this dream into reality doesn’t demand a vast estate or substantial wealth. By carefully assessing your backyard or patio space and working within your budget, you can create a delightful oasis for family relaxation. This article unveils an array of small pool ideas that are not only budget-friendly but also aesthetically pleasing, adding elegance and joy to homes of any size.

Factors to Consider: Before diving into small pool installation, consider crucial factors such as available space, budget constraints, and the overall aesthetic you desire. These considerations lay the foundation for a successful and enjoyable pool ownership experience.

Types of Pool Materials: Explore diverse pool materials to find the one that aligns with your vision. From classic tiles to modern fiberglass, the options are vast, allowing you to tailor your pool to both your aesthetic preferences and practical needs.

Breathtaking Small Pool Ideas: Discover a wealth of stunning small pool ideas that won’t break the bank. These budget-friendly concepts encompass everything from innovative shapes and landscaping to creative lighting, ensuring that your small pool becomes a captivating focal point in your home.

Factors to Consider Before Owning a Pool

A. Pool Type

There are two major types of pool you can opt for. Each of them has various peculiarities that help to differentiate one from the other, especially when you’re more interested in cost, structure, durability, maintenance, and aesthetics.

They include the following.

I. In-ground swimming pool

The underground swimming pool, synonymous with luxury and family entertainment, stands as the epitome of elegance in many homes. Widely favored by large families, this type of pool transforms spaces into havens of relaxation and social gatherings. However, the allure of an underground pool comes with a significant price tag. While the installation elevates the aesthetic appeal of a home, it demands careful consideration of ongoing expenses, including water bills, chemical treatments, and maintenance costs.

Installation Costs and Variations: The installation of an underground pool, with its accompanying patio, ranges between $30,000 and $70,000 on average. However, budget-conscious individuals can opt for smaller-sized pools, which come at a more affordable $10,000 to $20,000. The wide cost range is influenced by factors such as pool size, materials used, and additional features.

Materials Matter: The choice of materials significantly impacts the overall cost of building an underground pool. From classic tiles to modern fiberglass, each material brings its own aesthetic and practical considerations, contributing to the unique appeal of the pool. A detailed exploration of these materials is essential for making informed decisions aligning with both vision and budget.

Longevity and Considerations: Despite the initial costs and ongoing expenses, underground pools boast impressive longevity, becoming a lasting investment for homeowners. However, the decision to embrace this type of pool should involve a thoughtful consideration of factors like ongoing maintenance, water consumption, and chemical treatments.

Types of Underground/In-ground Pool

• Concrete pool

This has to do with excavation and the process of making a framework out of steel where concrete is poured and sealed with a plaster coat. This might be reapplied when the need arises during maintenance.

Concrete pools are very durable and can be easily designed to fit your taste or preference. However, they’re one of the most expensive and labor-intensive types of underground pools.

• Shipping container pool

This is a cheaper and latest alternative for an in-ground pool. It has to do with the use of uncycled metal shipping containers to make a swimming pool. They come in different designs and models; some have hot tub partitions and clear viewing panels by their sides.

The only downside of this type of pool is the lack of a structural wall, which might likely lead to pool failure. Also, the corrugated walls and wood floors could lead to rusting if they are not properly maintained or well-manufactured.

• Vinyl pool

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly in-ground pool, the vinyl-lined pool is what you should opt for. Unlike concrete, it is cheaper and easier to install due to its non-standard shape and size.

In terms of durability, it can only last for about 18 years if properly maintained. It tends to cause costly repairs or pool failure because the vinyl liner is fragile and can easily be punctured.

• Fiberglass pool

This is a cheaper and renowned alternative to the concrete pool. It is also durable and can last for more than 15 years if properly maintained. Hence, going for this type of in-ground pool for your small pool is cost-effective.

II. Above-ground pool

When the dream of an in-ground pool seems financially daunting, the above-ground pool emerges as a cost-effective alternative. Boasting easier installation, often arriving in kit form, this pool option becomes accessible to both DIY enthusiasts and those opting for professional services. Unlike its in-ground counterpart, the above-ground pool is not only swiftly installed in a matter of days but also offers mobility, making it a feasible choice for those contemplating relocation.

Installation and Mobility: The simplicity of above-ground pool installation makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals. Whether seeking professional assistance or opting for a DIY approach, the process is streamlined compared to the weeks required for in-ground pools. Additionally, its mobility feature allows owners to transport it when moving to a new residence, enhancing its practicality.

Design Limitations and Durability: While above-ground pools provide an economical solution, they come with design limitations. Unlike the versatile shapes achievable with in-ground pools, above-ground options are typically confined to round or oval shapes. This limitation, though, doesn’t overshadow the attractive budget-friendly aspect of these pools. However, it’s important to note that above-ground pools have a lifespan of 5-9 years, making them less durable than their in-ground counterparts.

Budget-Friendly Installation: For those prioritizing budget considerations, the above-ground pool is a compelling option. With installation costs ranging from $2,000 to $4,000, it becomes an accessible choice for individuals seeking aquatic relaxation without breaking the bank.

B. Depth

The underground pool is deeper than the above-ground pool. So, if you’re less concerned about depth, the latter is preferable.

C. Budget

If you’re on a very tight budget, the above-ground pool is more advisable. Later on, you can install the underground pool when you have a bigger budget.

D. Water type

You can choose between a saltwater pool and a chlorine pool. Even though chlorine is very popular and widely used among homeowners, saltwater is now being used to aid a softer and smoother skin and also prevent chemical smell.

The saltwater pool is easier to maintain when compared with the chlorine pool, even though there is no significant difference in their cost price during installation.

E. Durability

The in-ground pool is more durable than the above-ground pool that is susceptible to damage or abuse if it doesn’t have adequate support.

F. Additional Features

If you intend to add extra or custom features like waterfalls or fountains, color-changing integrated lights, built-in fire-place, among others, then you will have to spend higher

Awesome Budget-Friendly Small Pool Ideas to Choose From

You can always have a nice swimming pool in your backyard or wherever you choose to install it with the following small pool ideas.

1. Mini Lap/Narrow Pool

The potential for Olympic-style swimming in a narrow backyard, small lap pools blend design brilliance with functionality. Tailored for swimming enthusiasts craving the lap experience at home, these pools optimize limited space, allowing for invigorating practice sessions. The sleek, elongated design accommodates essential lengths while preserving backyard space for family and friend gatherings.

Design Ingenuity: Small lap pools exemplify design brilliance, transforming confined spaces into aquatic havens. Enabling regular laps and refining swimming techniques, these pools cater to fitness enthusiasts aspiring for Olympic-level experiences within the comfort of home.

Dual-Purpose Pleasure: Balancing fitness and relaxation, small lap pools serve as versatile additions, providing a dual-purpose backyard oasis for passionate swimmers and social gatherings alike.

2. Deck-Style Pool

Those blessed with ample deck space and a desire to elevate their home’s aesthetics, the addition of a small deck pool proves to be a compelling option. This pool variation, nestled seamlessly within your existing deck, requires minimal labor and boasts a budget-friendly installation. If you’ve been contemplating how to make the most of your spacious deck, a small deck pool offers an attractive solution, marrying convenience with a visual upgrade for your home.

Effortless Installation and Cost-Effectiveness: The beauty of a small deck pool lies in its simplicity. With sufficient room on your deck and a stable foundation, the installation process is hassle-free and cost-effective. This pool variant seamlessly integrates into your deck setup, enhancing the overall appeal without the need for extensive labor or a hefty investment.

Aesthetics and Functionality: Beyond the ease of installation and affordability, small deck pools bring an aesthetic charm to your outdoor space. They offer a perfect blend of visual appeal and functionality, creating a harmonious atmosphere for relaxation and recreation right at the heart of your home.

3. Small Square Pool

In the pursuit of a home pool, consider the practicality and cost-efficiency offered by square pools over their rectangular counterparts. This alternative not only maximizes space but also proves to be a budget-conscious choice, presenting a compelling case for those seeking a balance between functionality and financial prudence.

Space-Saving Elegance: Why settle for the traditional rectangular pool when a square design brings a touch of elegance while optimizing both space and budget? The square pool’s clean lines and symmetry offer a sophisticated aesthetic appeal, making it a stylish addition to any home without compromising on efficiency.

Cost-Effective Sophistication: Choosing a square pool doesn’t just add a touch of sophistication; it also presents a cost-effective solution. The simplicity of the square design translates into a budget-friendly option, making it an attractive investment for homeowners mindful of their financial considerations.

Adaptable Placement: Unlike the rigid confines of rectangular pools, square pools offer adaptability in placement, fitting seamlessly into various areas of your home. This versatility ensures that you can enjoy the luxury of a pool without extensive remodeling or sacrificing precious space, making it a strategic choice for homeowners with diverse spatial constraints.

4. Small Indoor Pool

If you have an empty room or space on the first floor of your house, it’s about time that you put it to good use. A small indoor pool is a perfect idea if you yearn for a pool.

Even though this type can be expensive, labor-intensive, and time-consuming (due to planning), the fulfillment you get after completing the pool will make it worthwhile. It is another way of adding luxury and glamour to your home.

5. Wall-Mount Pool

You can also have a small pool designed to be mounted along the perimeter of your backyard wall if you have a small space there. This type takes little space.

The only downside is that you will only be able to have access to it from three sides because of the wall. But it is a budget-friendly way of managing your space for a small pool.

6. An Above-Ground Pool with a Nice Deck

If you have a small space to spare in your backyard, you can decide to install an above-ground pool with a beautiful deck. This helps to add splendor to your home and gives you a recreational spot where you can relax and have fun with your family and friends.

It is budget-friendly, making it one of the ideal small above-ground pools on a budget.

Conclusion

Having a small space in your home does not stop you from enjoying the luxury and fulfillment that comes with owning a pool. The ideas in this article will assist you in designing your pool with the little space and budget you have.