Finance
How much does a swimming pool cost in Canada? – MoneySense
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The family was swimming in the pool less than a year after putting down a deposit with their pool contractor. However, the process wasn’t all smooth sailing. “Originally, we budgeted $80,000, and they laughed at us,” Rubinoff says. “There are costs you don’t think of, [and] cheaper isn’t always better.”
If you’re interested in getting an inground pool, it’s important to know that there are many things outside of the pool itself that influence the total cost. There are numerous upfront choices to make regarding pool design, shape, size and pool decking, and each affects pricing, which can differ greatly from one contractor to the next. As with most major purchases, it’s best to shop around, do your homework and get detailed written estimates before signing a contract. This guide will help you through the process.
Vinyl, fibreglass or concrete pool: Which is the best option?
Most pool shoppers start by choosing one of the three most common pool materials: vinyl, fibreglass and concrete (also called shotcrete or gunite). Each type has pros and cons in terms of cost, construction and maintenance, which can also vary depending on the frequency of pool use, quality of upkeep, and quality of the pump, filtration and sanitation systems. Here are some average price ranges to help you make that initial decision:
| Vinyl-liner pool | Fibreglass pool | Concrete pool | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Installation cost | $60,000 to $100,000 | $70,000 to $120,000 | $100,000 to $250,000 |
| Installation time | A few weeks | One week | A few months |
| Seasonal maintenance cost | Up to $2,000, including $475 for chemicals | Up to $1,800, including $325 for chemicals | Up to $2,500, including $695 for chemicals |
| Long-term maintenance costs | • Replace vinyl liner every 8 to 10 years: $4,500 to $6,500 | • Repair cracks (as needed): $3,000 • Replace interior gel coating every 20 to 30 years: up to $15,000 |
• Acid-wash pool every 3 to 5 years: $2,000 • Re-plaster pool surface every 10 to 12 years: $12,000 to $15,000 • Replace pool cleaner parts: $500 |
| Pros | • Lower initial cost • Easy upkeep • Customizable shape and size |
• Lower maintenance and lifetime cost (most economical) | • Many shapes, sizes and designs available |
| Cons | • Higher lifetime cost • Some vinyl pools can’t accommodate salt water • Possible liner punctures or tears (e.g., from pets) • Liner warranties may be prorated • Less resale value |
• Higher initial cost • Limited shapes, sizes and designs (no wider than 16′) • Repairs on coloured finishes may not match |
• Most expensive to build • Requires more maintenance • Needs more chemicals and pump run time (using more electricity) for sanitation |
Building an “outdoor living room” to go with your pool
If you want your pool to be the centrepiece of an outdoor living oasis, you may want extras like fire pits, tables, a cabana, a roof or other covering for your patio area, an outdoor kitchen space or a bar. These items aren’t included in standard pool packages, and their costs can differ greatly among pool contractors.
Pool decking, water features and landscaping
The pool decking is the material that covers the ground around the pool. It’s sometimes referred to as landscaping, along with the trees, flowers or shrubs around your pool area, and it might be as expensive as the pool itself—maybe even more.
Marc Luff, co-owner of Betz Pools in Stouffville, Ont., notes that, on average, his firm charges $30 to $35 per square foot for premium interlocking stones, while imported natural stone can run about $40 to $50 per square foot. Flagstone laid on concrete is about $55 to $65 per square foot, and natural Canadian dimensional stone is $75 to $95 per square foot.
Decking prices vary among pool and landscaping companies, so these prices are only examples of what you might pay. You may be surprised that wood decks are the priciest option. That’s because wood on its own rots quickly from the pool water, and therefore needs poured concrete installed underneath. A wood deck made with cedar or low-end pressure-treated woods will set you back $50 per square foot, while premium woods and premium wood composites will run you $75 to $90 per square foot.
Water features like waterfalls and fountains create a zen atmosphere, but even a small one can add around $5,000 or more to your total cost, depending on the materials you choose.
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Jackie Gillard
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