If you are thinking about having a built-in above-ground pool installed, one of the first questions you will probably have is “What does it cost?” The price varies widely based on multiple components, however, understanding the components of cost can aid decision-making. There are many considerations to be made, from the pool structure itself to the equipment you’ll need to maintain it. This blog will unpack the price of a built-in above-ground pool, together with installation, tools, plus ongoing maintenance using a robotic pool cleaner.
Built In Above Ground Swimming Pool: What It Is
A built-in above-ground pool is a kind of combination between the above-ground pool and the in-ground pool. Unlike ordinary above-ground pools that sit entirely above the ground, built-in types are partially in-ground, which gives them a more permanent look and feel. These pools combine the flexibility and cost-effectiveness of above-ground models, with the advantage of providing some benefits associated with in-ground pools.
Instead, above-ground pools tend to be built-in, which are popular for being affordable, installed as a more rapid option, and allow you to pair the pool with deck or landscaping options.
Prices of Setting Up a Built-In Above Ground Pool
How much does it cost to install a built-in above-ground pool? The total cost of installing an above-ground solar pool cover will be determined by the pool size, the materials used as well as any additional features you want to include. Here is an itemization of the main cost pieces:
Pool Kit and Structure
Price Of The Pool Structure — This is generally the largest cost associated with building a built-in above-ground pool and is often the price alone for all of the pool structure components. Pool kits generally run from $3,000 to $10,000 or more, depending on the size, materials and brand. The pool kit price includes the walls, liner, and equipment you need to operate the pool. Options for customizing, such as higher-quality liners or upgrades to the pool walls, can also increase cost.
Standard Above-Ground Pool Kit: $2,000 to $6,000
Upgraded Features Pool Kit: $5,000 to $10,000 or more
Soil Excavation and Preconstruction Preparation
While built-in above-ground pools require less excavation than fully in-ground pools, you still need to prepare the ground. Digging is the process of leveling out the site and also creating a sturdy base for the pool. This step in the process usually runs between $1,000 and $5,000, depending on the size of the pool as well as the difficulty of prepping the ground.
The extra costs — if your yard needs additional landscaping or grading — could be even more. You’ll also want to account for whatever costs you’ll incur for permits or inspections that local authorities may require.
Installation and Labor
Depending on your area and the intricacy of your design, the cost might be less (or more) than what is listed below. Even a built-in above-ground pool installation labor can cost between $2,500 to $8,000 on average. This price includes excavation, installation of the pool structure, plumbing, and electrical work, if applicable.
If you’re hiring a contractor to construct the pool, labor will account for a large part of the total cost. However, if you install the pool yourself (DIY), you will save on the labor cost but have to factor in the cost of tools and time.
Decking and Landscaping
Although the pool structure itself represents the bulk of your investment, constraining the structure with some tasteful decking and/or landscaping will not only make your pool a more attractive structure but well-used and efficient at the same time. Decking can be made with different materials — wood, composite, or stone — and it will probably cost you somewhere between $3,000 and $10,000, depending on the size and material you choose.
Landscaping around the pool, another possible expense, can cost $1,000 to $5,000, depending on the scope of the work.
Pool Equipment
One of the most important pieces of equipment for keeping your pool clean and healthy is a robotic pool cleaner or a pool cleaner robot. These machines work by collecting leaves, dirt, and debris from the bottom of the pool, hitting the walls, and dirt on the water line to keep your pool looking sparkling clean with little effort.
A robotic pool cleaner, for example, can be anywhere from $500 to $2,000 or more depending on the brand, features, and size of the pool. For example, if you look for robotic pool cleaner options, you will find great offerings, such as the Beatbot AquaSense Pro and Beatbot iSkim Ultra. These cleaners also feature programmable cleaning schedules and energy-efficient, and large debris cleaning capabilities. A more efficient robotic pool cleaner will help you save both time and effort in the long run.
Ongoing Maintenance Costs
In addition to the initial purchase, there are regular expenses with a constructed above-ground pool. These costs include:
Chemicals: Pool chemicals (chlorine, pH balancers, algaecides, etc.) keep your pool water clean and safe. Chemical costs typically run between $200 and $600 per year, depending on pool size and frequency of use.
Energy: Running your pool pump, filtration system, and robotic pool cleaner will increase your energy bills. Depending on the efficiency of your equipment and how much you run it, expect to spend $500 to $1,500 annually on electricity.
More Features and Customization Options
If you decide to add any luxury features to your built-in above-ground pool, such as LED lighting, waterfalls, or heating systems, the costs can skyrocket. The price for these features can range from $1,000 to $10,000 or more, depending on your preferences.
Conclusion: What is the Cost of a Built-In Above Ground Pool?
The overall cost of a built-in above-ground pool can range anywhere between $10k – $30k, depending on the size of the pool, materials used, installation, etc. Though these pools cost less than in-ground pools, they are more affordable than a backyard dive, yet still a significant expense.
Investing in high-quality equipment, like a robotic pool cleaner, can make over your pool, too. Enter the pool cleaner: the Beatbot AquaSense Pro, designed to keep your pool in pristine condition without any effort from you so that you can spend more time enjoying your investments.
The cost of building and maintaining a pool is significant and should not be undertaken lightly. Whether you choose to go with a pool vacuum, swimming pool robot cleaner, or full-blown pool cleaner robot, you need to factor in the costs of cleaning and maintaining your pool as part of your overall budget. With the right preparation, you can look forward to years of trouble-free enjoyment of your pool.
