What is the most affordable pool shape?
The short answer is that rectangular and square pools tend to be the cheapest options because of their straightforward construction and efficient use of. If you’re considering building a pool on a budget, chances are good that you’re interested in finding the cheapest pool shape available to minimize costs. But what exactly is that shape, and will it actually reduce the overall price of your pool project? The short answer is that rectangular and square pools tend to be the cheapest options because of their straightforward construction and efficient use of materials. However, the total cost of a pool is influenced by many factors, including size, complexity of design, and extra features, so it’s important to keep the big picture in mind when you’re thinking about the final price tag.
Suppose the backyard layout is not altered and is easy to access with pool excavation and installation equipment. In that case, the ease of constructing a rectangular pool can make it the least expensive option. However, if trees need to be taken out and existing structures taken down or moved to open up the space, this will result in additional costs. The beauty of a freeform pool is that it can be built to curve and go around anything without removing things keeping the costs lower.
Rectangular pools are classic, straightforward, and often considered highly cost-effective. Due to their simple design, building them requires less labor and fewer materials. This structure is great for swimming laps and provides a sleek, modern aesthetic. A rectangular pool is typically the cheapest option if you’re opting for a straightforward installation without extra features.
Kidney shapes can be a smart choice for those on a budget. The curved design allows for more square footage of actual swimming area but with lower perimeter footage, which costs more to build. See the section “How pool shape impacts construction costs in part. In the midst of summer, a cool, inviting swimming pool can transform your backyard into a personal oasis.
Work closely with a professional pool designer to create a design that meets your needs while optimizing cost-efficiency. Vinyl liner pools are typically the least expensive option, and that makes them excellent for anyone who wants to stick to a smaller budget. For example, a pool bench can go outside the perimeter shape, or this nook can be the perfect place to integrate a pocket of landscaping. Finally, when it comes to maintenance, both rectangular and freeform pools require about the same amount of upkeep.
First, what is involved in the excavation and placement of the pool will determine which shape is the cheapest for your situation. Covering this basic shape is easy, especially when using a motorized pool cover with railings and fixtures that make the cover slide open and close. You can even have the shape of a custom geometric pool follow or “mimic the angles of your home’s footprint. Customization may be adding a simple deck around it, but otherwise, there is not much customization if any that can be done, whereas, with an inground concrete, gunite swimming pool customization can be limitless.
While rectangular and kidney-shaped pools offer significant cost advantages, the ultimate choice hinges on your unique needs and preferences. And if you want to get really fancy, you can opt for a mountain lake pool with irregular curves designed to emulate an oasis in the woods. But, at the bare minimum, here’s what we believe you might see for starting costs for each inground pool type.