What to Budget When Installing a New In Ground Pool in Ottawa
Like the idea of an inground pool for your family to enjoy during many summers to come but don’t know if you can afford it? Here we review the cost of an inground pool from installation through to ongoing maintenance so you can plan your budget.
The cost of an in-ground pool can vary greatly depending on a number of factors including:
- Pool material
- Shape
- Size
- Finish
- Installation and excavation requirements
- Custom upgrades like water features, lights, decking
- Poolscaping (Landscaping around the pool)
Due to the many variations that can impact the final cost of your in-ground pool this article will act as a rough guide to give you an idea of a starting point when budgeting for a new inground pool.
Remember: Always seek the advice of professional pool installation companies who can make sure you have factored all the various pool costs into your pool budget.
Which Type of Pool is The Most Affordable?
Generally, inground pools are made from vinyl/steel, concrete or fiberglass.
The manufacturing and installation cost of each type can vary significantly, but ongoing maintenance costs should also be considered when deciding which type of pool is the most affordable.
Although we’ve laid out the various types of in-ground pools and the average costs of each, note that in Ottawa, Canada, the most common type of in ground pool you’ll find is one with a steel shell that’s assembled on-site (in pretty much any shape imaginable), that’s reinforced with concrete and finished off with a vinyl liner.
When thinking of a concrete pool however, many people might think about spray concrete called shotcrete or gunite. This is more common in the United States than it is in Canada – and the build times are much longer.
In these examples the average cost is based on basic installation and finishes for a small to medium sized (under 30 sq ft) pool.
The first option shown below is the type of in-ground pool that Jordco Pools installs in Ottawa.
Vinyl & Steel:
- Offers most flexibility for customized shapes and finishes
- Average cost approx. $50,000 – $95,000
- Annual maintenance costs up to $2,500
- Liner needs replacing every 15-20 years, which comes with a cost of approx. $5,000 – $8,000
Fiberglass
- Pool shells are pre-fabricated and transported to site which can limit size options
- Most expensive initial layout
- Fast to install
- Easy to clean, very little maintenance required over lifetime
- Average cost approx. $50,000 – $85,000
- Annual maintenance costs $1,000 – $2,000
- Fiberglass repairs can be expensive if required
Concrete:
- Typically, the most expensive option, they require the longest amount of time to install.
- Available in lots of shapes, and is the most customizable
- Average cost approx. $90,000 – $200,000, or more
- Annual maintenance approx. $1,000 – $2,000
- Concrete needs resurfacing every 15-20 years, which can start at $25,000 depending on what condition the concrete, tiles surface etc. is in.
As you can see, no matter the type of pool you choose, the cost of an in-ground pool is a significant investment and ongoing costs should be considered as part of that investment too.
Does a Bigger Pool Cost More Than a Small One?
If costs are based on a per square foot price, which can vary depending on the type of pool, then it stands to reason that a bigger pool will be more expensive than a smaller one.
When considering what size pool to budget for remember a bigger pool will also mean increased costs for:
- Larger pool covers
- More chemicals for water balancing
- Higher material and labour costs for pool surrounds and decks
- More lighting required
Of course, a small concrete pool with very high-end finishes and automated accessories would almost definitely cost more than a larger, but simply finished, vinyl pool.
What Extras Should I Consider When Budgeting for an In-Ground Pool?
Generally, the cost of an inground pool covers the design and installation, including the essential equipment such as pumps and filters, electrical connections and a simple concrete edging.
You should check that your pool installation package includes required permits, waste removal and water to fill the pool as these can add a significant amount to the final cost.
Depending on the look you wish to achieve and your planned use of the pool there are many additional enhancements you may wish to include in your inground pool budget.
For example:
- Decking and patios
- Water features
- Poolscaping and landscaping
- Steps, stairs and slides
- Spa pool
- Heating
- Lighting
- Automatic pool vacuums
Of course, most of these things are all extras that are nice to have but not essential. It is worth noting that for some items like lighting, heaters, water features and patios, it is usually more cost effective, and less disruptive, to add them when the pool is being put in.
How Much Will It Cost to Maintain a Pool?
It is important to be aware that there will be annual costs associated with the maintenance and repair of your inground pool. Some will be regular annual costs and others may be one-off or required after a number of years.
Annual costs – Pool maintenance requirements and costs will vary by pool type but plan to spend around 10% of the initial cost of the pool on annual maintenance and costs including:
- Test kits and chemicals
- Cleaning equipment
- Hydro bills
- Insurance
Occasional costs – will vary by type of pool but may include:
- Mechanical repairs – for example a pump can cost on average $1,000 to replace
- Vinyl liners – depending on the pool size approx. $5,000 every 15-20 years
Consider all Costs When Budgeting for an In-Ground Pool
As you can see, when calculating the cost of an inground pool, there is a lot more than the cost of the pool structure itself to bear in mind. For a regular-sized family pool, you should realistically budget anything from $50,000 to $100,000 depending on your finishing and accessory choices.
Note that a well maintained, eye-pleasing backyard pool could increase the value of your home by up to 7%, and will certainly make it more attractive to future buyers when it is time for your family to move on.
Contact Jordco Pools for an In-Ground Pool Quote
Jordco Pools is a one stop shop for backyard in-ground pools in the Ottawa area. From initial design to the first swim, our staff are with you at every stage. We can even help with poolscaping and landscaping for the complete backyard package.
Note: The costs quoted in this article are intended as a rough guide only. Location, fluctuation in material costs and availability can all impact the final cost. Get in touch with us and we will gladly provide an accurate and up to date quote.
When quoting for a new inground pool, we will be clear and upfront about what is included, what else can be added, and what choices you can make to stay within your preferred budget.
We look forward to building you your dream inground pool soon!
