6 Small Backyard Pool Ideas on a Budget

Who doesn’t want to have a home with a nice swimming pool? Here are some great small backyard pool ideas on a budget. A swimming pool that is big enough so you can relax with your family is all you need. It is truly one of the best uses of a backyard in summer months. However, if you ever think that owning a pool is only reserved for people with big houses or overly rich, you are wrong.

You don’t need a crazy budget or even a huge backyard to have the pool of your dream. All it takes to realize your dream is to take a look at your backyard or patio and then decide where your future swimming pool should be. You could even gain some inspiration by reading this post by Curb Wise, and thinking about how different styles and approaches to your pool can change the aesthetic of your backyard. Next, you can determine how much budget you need to get the pool that you want. Keep in mind, you may also want a screen porch to go with it.

Again, you don’t need a crazy amount of money for these backyard pool ideas on a budget. You will be surprised at all the options you can choose from when it comes to small pools. In fact, small pools are popular these days among homeowners. The main reason is that they are cheap to install, and another reason is easy maintenance.

This is why I want to write this article; I want to help homeowners to realize their dreams of owning a swimming pool in their backyards. A pool that is affordable and fits no matter how small your backyard or patio is. I will be taking you through various factors that you should consider before you can build your pool. Complete with the materials that suit you and, of course, all the small pool ideas that will satisfy you.

Factors to consider before owning a pool

Pool type

Basically, you have two main options when it comes to pool types. Each type has its own pros and cons that can help you decide which one is better for you. All the pros and cons are related to aesthetics, durability, cost, structure, and maintenance.

In-ground swimming pool

The first type is the in-ground swimming pool. Some people also call it the underground swimming pool due to the design. It is probably the most popular type of pool that we know today. Many homeowners choose this type, especially those who have a large family.

The best thing about this type of swimming pool is the aesthetic. Many people love the luxury and beautiful looks of an underground swimming pool. You can turn this type of pool into a source of entertainment for everyone in the house. Anyone can relax by the poolside or take a swim in the pool.

Keep in mind that you will need to mind your water bills. This type of pool requires constant refilling, chemicals to treat the water, and other maintenance expenses. However, an in-ground swimming pool can last for many years, granted that you take care of it well.

Typically, you will need to spend between $30k to $70k to get this type of pool installed. If you want a cheaper one, you can get one installed for as low as $10k. The price of the pool will be heavily dependent on the materials used.

Concrete pool

This material is truly reliable for most homeowners. It is also flexible, so you can get a design that is unique to your taste or preference. The installation process involves excavation and making a framework out of steel. Then the concrete is poured into the excavation site and sealed with a plaster coat. The whole process might need to be repeated for future maintenance. One downside of this material is that it can get quite expensive and labor-intensive.

Vinyl pool

This material is great for homeowners who are looking for a budget option. A vinyl-lined pool is different from concrete as it is cheaper and easier to install, thanks to its non-standard size and shape. When it comes to durability, however, a vinyl pool can only last for up to 18 years with proper maintenance. Not to mention the repair costs and pool failure rate are a bit higher due to the vinyl liner being fragile.

Shipping container pool

If you are looking for a material that is cheap and unique, perhaps a shipping container is right up your alley. This material is the latest alternative for an in-ground pool. It uses uncycled metal shipping containers to make a pool. The design and models will depend on the shipping containers – some have clear viewing panels or hot tub partitions. The downside is the lack of a structural wall, which could lead to pool failure. Rust could also be a big problem if not anticipated early.

Fiberglass pool

Here is another new alternative that you can choose. A fiberglass pool is cheaper than a concrete pool but also can compare when it comes to durability. This type of material usually lasts for 15 years if properly maintained. Despite the shorter lifespan, it is still going to be a cost-effective solution for your small in-ground pool.

Above-ground pool

If the in-ground pool type is not an option due to being above your budget, you should check out the above-ground pool. This is a cheaper alternative that is also easier to install and usually comes with a kit to help you. In other words, you can install an above-ground pool yourself if you want to, but of course, you can also hire a professional to do it for you.

Now here is another huge difference that many homeowners appreciate. An above-ground pool only takes a few days to be installed. It is also moveable, which is useful if you’re moving to a new place. However, there are two major downsides that you should be aware of, low flexibility and durability.

An above-ground pool is not as flexible or versatile as an in-ground pool. You have fewer options when it comes to shapes, sizes, and aesthetics. An above-ground pool is also not as durable as an in-ground pool, as it only lasts for up to nine years. Remember that it’s still a budget-friendly option considering that you can install a small above-ground pool with $2k to $4k.

Depth

This one heavily depends on your personal preference. Some people prefer a deep pool, and others don’t. Usually, an underground pool is deeper than an above-ground pool.

Budget

As mentioned above, if your budget is really tight, an above-ground pool would sound ideal. You can always hold on to installing an underground pool later when you have the budget.

Water type

This one is important; you have two options here a chlorine pool or a saltwater pool. Chlorine is more popular and widely used, but it offers fewer benefits compared to a saltwater pool. Saltwater can aid a smoother and softer skin and also has no chemical smell.

A Saltwater pool is also easier to maintain. However, saltwater will be a bit more expensive compared to a chlorine pool.

Durability

Again, an in-ground pool is more durable than an above-ground pool. If durability is the main concern for you, you might not like an above-ground pool, which is susceptible to abuse or damage.

Additional features

Some homeowners love the idea of having a fountain or waterfall to complete their swimming pools. Additional features like a built-in fireplace, outdoor barbeque, and integrated lights are also popular.

Small Backyard Pool Ideas on a Budget to Choose From

These budget-friendly Spool Pool or small pool ideas are perfect for homeowners who want the best small pool with their tight budgets.

Narrow pool or mini lap

A narrow backyard or limited budget is not an excuse for not being able to swim endlessly. A mini lap or narrow pool is the perfect solution for homeowners who want an Olympic-styled swimming pool but has limited space.

This kind of small lap pool will make you feel like you have a lot of space to swim. You can do laps and even practice for the Olympics if you want to. All this is possible to do at your home. And, of course, you will still have enough space in your backyard for something else.

Small square pool

A square pool is a great idea for people who want to be 100% efficient with their space.

This design is completely different from the conventional rectangular pool. It is more elegant, space-efficient, and budget-friendly; you can simply choose a spot in your backyard and have the pool installed there.

Deck-style pool

If you have a spacey deck and don’t know what to do with it, why not install a pool there? A deck-styled pool is a great idea to use your deck. The final result will look awesome and elegant as well.

Despite its appearance, a deck-styled pool is not labor-intensive and is cheap to install. As long as you have enough space on your deck to work with and a solid foundation, you can begin the installation process right away.

Wall-mount pool

Here is another popular pool that many homeowners love. A wall-mount pool is a small pool that is designed to be mounted along the perimeter of the wall. It takes little space and is relatively cheap to install.

The downside you should know is that you can only access it from three sides or fewer than that. Obviously, because the wall is going to be on the way.

Small indoor pool

This type of pool is getting more and more popular nowadays, especially for homeowners who have more space indoors than outdoors.

Although this can be expensive, time-consuming, and labor-intensive, the end result will definitely satisfy you. It is truly a great way to add glamor and luxury to your home. Furthermore, the weather won’t be a bother at all.

An above-ground pool with a nice deck

backyard, you can install an above-ground pool with a beautiful deck. This type of pool will add glamor to your home and give a nice spot where everyone can relax in the backyard.

It is also budget-friendly, so you can install an above-ground pool on a budget today.

Conclusion on Backyard Pool Ideas on a Budget

As you can see, having limited space and money are not a problem at all for these backyard pool ideas on a budget. There are plenty of great small swimming pool ideas that will suit your home and budget. I hope now you have a clear idea of what type of pool you should have.