Some pool shapes are more expensive to install than others. Depending on your finances, it’s best to choose an option that meets your needs without increasing costs now or in the long run. Below you’ll find details about how a pool’s shape affects initial installation costs and future upkeep.
Construction Costs
Standard pool shapes generally keep costs down, whereas custom work is typically associated with complex, expensive structures. The initial costs for the latter are higher due to several factors, including specialized excavation, tougher labor requirements, custom work, and increased material use.
When selecting a standard shape, your custom pool and spa builder is more likely to use straightforward construction methods. These aren’t only less time-consuming but also waste less material.
If you decide on a complex structure, be prepared to pay for more construction time, including specialized labor. The difficult techniques pool builders use during the project will increase labor costs. The customization attached to the shape adds to the initial installation expenses. Irregular designs will require more materials—often custom components—and will be significantly more costly and labor-intensive.
Long-Term Expenses
After the pool is built, the budgeting doesn’t stop. It will need to be cleaned, have liner and cover replacements performed, and require ongoing maintenance. Failure to do so could cause bacterial growth and damage pool equipment, leading to safety and health issues, expensive repair and replacement needs, reduced property value, and increased risk of pests breeding.
Irregularly shaped swimming pools often feature tight spaces and more corners than standard options, requiring frequent, more detailed cleanings to reach the areas where debris collects. The cleaning equipment is often specialized for these jobs to ensure the pool is properly maintained, resulting in higher long-term expenses.
Most Affordable Shapes
Square and rectangular shapes are often the most affordable options when designing a custom pool. These lines are straight and simple, reducing the need for complex designs. The straightforwardness will require fewer materials, helping you keep costs down while adding more value to your property.
Availability can affect the costs of swimming pool products. Therefore, selecting an affordable shape, such as a rectangular one, means the materials are often vinyl liner or fiberglass, making them more available and their manufacturing costs lower.
Expensive Options
If you’re more open to curved lines or complex shapes, the materials required are more expensive. Freeform pools are often the most costly due to the classic and geometric shapes they offer, such as Grecian and Roman styles. These features include semicircular ends, flowing curves, irregular angles, multiple connected shapes, and other custom layouts.
An important aspect of backyard design San Diego homeowners need to understand is that added features can make custom pool shapes more expensive. These shapes have to accommodate many selections, based on a homeowner’s preference. These could be special steps inside the pool, built-in benches, unique lighting structures, and more.
Are you ready to transform your backyard into a personal oasis? Reach out to GAIA Builders & Pools today to work with our expert designers and contractors on creating your dream outdoor space. As a premier pool builder San Diego homeowners have trusted for more than two decades, we transform customer dreams into reality with innovative design and custom construction. Whether you’re upgrading an existing pool or starting fresh, we’ll guide you every step of the way, and with our flexible financing options, bringing your vision to life has never been easier.
