Is it cheaper to build a plunge pool?

What is a plunge pool?

A plunge pool, also known as a dipping pool, is a small recreational pool designed for cooling off or relaxation. Plunge pools are usually around 4 to 8 feet deep and between 8 and 15 feet in diameter. They can be installed above ground or partially or fully in-ground, and are often found near patios, decks, or master bedroom suites. Plunge pools offer the experience of swimming and cooling off without the space requirements of a large backyard swimming pool.

What are the benefits of a plunge pool?

Some of the main benefits of installing a plunge pool include:

• Cooling off – Plunge pools provide a convenient way to take a quick dip and cool down on hot days.
• Relaxation – Many people find soaking in a small pool to be therapeutic and relaxing.
• Space saving – Plunge pools take up far less space than traditional swimming pools.
• Cost – Building a small plunge pool is generally less expensive than installing a large in-ground pool.
• Low maintenance – The small size makes plunge pools easier to clean and maintain than larger pools.
• Increased home value – Adding a pool can increase a home’s value, and a plunge pool allows you to enjoy this benefit without the cost of a full-sized pool.

For homes with limited yard space, plunge pools offer the ability to have a pool and the benefits that come with it without sacrificing a large portion of the landscape. The dipping pools can provide pleasant recreation and an increased sense of luxury for homes large and small.

What are the costs of installing a plunge pool?

The exact cost of installing a plunge pool will depend on a variety of factors, including:

• Type of pool – Above-ground, partially in-ground, or fully in-ground.
• Materials – Fiberglass, concrete, vinyl liner.
• Size and depth.
• Features – Special shapes, waterfalls, tile, lighting, etc.
• Excavation needs – This will depend on site topography if installed in-ground.
• Landscaping and decking.
• Permits and professional installation.

However, on average, a basic 8×8 foot above-ground plunge pool may cost between $5,000-$8,000. A partially in-ground pool may range from $15,000-$25,000. A custom designed small pool with water features and lighting could cost $30,000 or more.

Main pool construction expenses

Some of the main elements that factor into the total plunge pool installation costs include:

• Pool structure/shell – This includes the water containment vessel itself, either pre-formed fiberglass or gunite/concrete. $4,000-$15,000.
• Excavation – For in-ground pools, costs for digging, grading, and soil transport. $2,000-$5,000.
• Plumbing – Pipes, pumps, filters, water sanitation system. $2,000-$4,000.
• Electric – Wiring, lights, heating. $1,000-$2,000.
• Decking – Concrete or tile patio/deck around the pool. $3,000-$7,000.
• Landscaping – Design and installation of plants, trees, lawn. $1,000-$4,000.

There may also be additional costs for permits, professional design, and contingency funds in case of issues. Overall the total project cost can vary widely depending on the specifics of the project. But plunge pools certainly provide an appealing cooling off option at a fraction of the cost of large swimming pools that can cost $50,000 and up.

How does the cost compare to a large pool?

Compared to traditional in-ground swimming pools that are generally 400 square feet or larger, plunge pools provide big savings. Some estimated costs for installing larger pools in comparison:

Pool Type	Typical Size	Estimated Installation Cost
Plunge pool	8×8 ft	$15,000 – $25,000
Medium pool	15×30 ft	$35,000 – $60,000
Large pool	20×40 ft	$60,000 – $100,000

The installation cost per square foot is generally higher for smaller plunge pools given their depth and the materials needed for such compact construction. But the overall budget is still far lower than bigger pools.

Savings areas for plunge pools include:

• Less excavation, backfill, and grading required.
• More pre-formed pool options available rather than full custom gunite builds.
• Less extensive filtering and plumbing systems needed for small water volume.
• More modest or minimal decking and landscaping requirements.
• Fewer permits and plan approvals usually required compared to large backyard pools.

So while the per square foot cost may be higher, a plunge pool can often be built for $20,000 to $40,000 less than a traditional 20×40 foot in-ground pool.

What are the ongoing costs?

The ongoing maintenance costs for plunge pools are also generally lower compared to larger residential pools:

• Energy – Lower pump use and often no heater needed for small plunge pools can save hundreds of dollars per year in energy costs.
• Chemicals – Only minimal chlorine, algaecide and other water chemicals needed due to small volume of water.
• Cleaning – Easy access and small surface area reduces time needed for brushing, vacuuming, skimming.
• Covers – Less expensive safety covers and solar blankets fit the compact size.
• Maintenance – Fewer mechanical systems like filters and pumps to maintain compared to large pools.

For a basic 8×8 ft plunge pool with simple water sanitation and circulation systems, expect around $800 to $1,500 per year in chemical, heating, cleaning and general maintenance costs. Larger gunite pools often cost $3,000 to $5,000 annually to maintain.

Typical annual ownership costs

Pool Type	Typical Costs
Plunge Pool	$800 – $1,500
Medium In-ground Pool	$2,000 – $3,000
Large In-ground Pool	$3,000 – $5,000

The ease of cleaning small dipping pools yourself can also save on service fees. So the annual cost of ownership is yet another area where compact plunge pools provide big savings versus traditional swimming pools.

What design options are available?

Even though plunge pools are relatively small structures, you can add various design elements to make them align with your personal style, yard space, and preferences:

Shape

• Round
• Oval
• Square/rectangle
• Freeform or custom shapes

Depths

• Constant 4 ft – 5 ft depth
• Graduated depths, with shallow and deep ends

Materials

• Fiberglass
• Concrete/gunite
• Vinyl liner

Features

• Waterfalls
• Fountains
• Bubblers
• LED lighting
• High quality finishes like tile, travertine, or pebble
• Salt water sanitation
• Swim jets
• stereos
• Heaters

Decking

• Concrete patio
• Natural stone tile
• Wood decking
• Pavers

So plunge pools can be designed for functionality, elegance, relaxation, or just fun depending on your vision. Consulting a pool design professional is recommended to blend the right features into plunge pool project.

Should you build a custom or pre-made pool?

Plunge pools are available in ready-made fiberglass units or can be built fully custom on-site just like large swimming pools. Here is an overview of the options:

Type	Pros	Cons
Pre-made fiberglass pool	Lower cost Faster installation Low maintenance Option to install above-ground	Limited shape and size options May need shipping or transport
Custom gunite or concrete pool	Fully customized design and features Any shape or size Durable and long lasting	Higher cost Longer construction time Site excavation required

Fiberglass plunge pools are best for simple installations needed quickly. Custom concrete pools offer ultimate design flexibility for a luxury backyard pool experience. Consulting a qualified pool builder is the best way to weigh the options for your specific property and needs.

Should you install a plunge pool above or below ground?

Plunge pools can be installed fully above ground, partially in-ground, or fully in-ground. Here are some factors to help determine the best option:

• Above ground is typically less expensive and faster to install.
• Above ground may not be allowed by HOAs or codes in some areas.
• Above ground units are more exposed to wind and weather.
• Partially or fully in-ground pools may have soil stability and drainage considerations.
• In-ground pools usually require more extensive excavation and site work.
• In-ground offers a smoother transition from decks and landscaping.

If considering above ground, be sure to check on any restrictions or codes related to putting a pool structure directly on top of the yard. Partially recessed options are a good middle ground, with the bottom 2 feet or so set into the ground. This provides stability while still keeping costs and construction efforts reasonable.

How long does it take to build a plunge pool?

Another benefit of plunge pools compared to large custom pools is the faster construction time, especially for pre-made fiberglass pool installations. Here are approximate timelines:

• Pre-made fiberglass plunge pool – 1 to 3 weeks
• Partial in-ground gunite pool – 4 to 8 weeks
• Fully custom in-ground concrete pool – 8 to 16 weeks

The quickest option is purchasing a ready-made fiberglass plunge pool shell which can potentially be installed in the span of a few days. Partial concrete installations may take 1 to 2 months. And a fully customized luxury concrete plunge pool with special features could take 3 to 4 months, but still half the time of bigger swimming pools.

Do you need permits and professional installation?

Any pool project requires researching relevant building codes and permitting in your local area. Plunge pools often have fewer restrictions than large pools given their compact size. But always check with your city or county permit office first.

It’s also advisable to have a pool installed by a licensed contractor. Professionals have the expertise to handle drainage, utilities, structures, safety features, and other elements that go into a properly functioning pool. Doing it yourself as a DIY project is not impossible, but has many disadvantages and risks compared to hiring a pool company.

Be sure to get quotes from multiple pool builders and review examples of previous plunge pool projects they have completed. As with any construction project, references and reviews of potential contractors are key.

Conclusion

For their cooling, relaxation, and decorative benefits, plunge pools offer an appealing backyard upgrade at a fraction of the cost and space required for large swimming pools. Fiberglass pre-made units can allow homeowners to enjoy a personal pool in only a few weeks for $15,000 or less. And for those seeking a highly customized backyard experience, luxury concrete plunge pool projects in the $30,000+ range provide an enticing alfresco escape. While not cheap, the overall cost is comparable to other major home renovations and can significantly improve quality of life during warm seasons. For homes where space is at a premium, plunge pools deliver the quintessential backyard pool experience on a compact budget.