Is a small pool worth it?
Emily Ross
Published Jan 22, 2026
It's definitely worth having a pool around, as it racks up the price of your property. Though it costs money, it definitely adds more to your overall property cost. Smaller pools require cost less money than bigger pools, and they add less value to your property than bigger pools.
What is the point of a small pool?
Unlike larger swimming pools that are built for swimming, a plunge pool is built specifically for the purpose of wading, lounging or just cooling off after a long day. Since newer homes are built on smaller lots, opting for a plunge pool is a unique way to save space and be the proud owner of your very own pool.
How small is too small for a swimming pool?
While the sizes and dimensions of pools vary, anything that's about 10 feet by 10 feet or smaller is typically considered a small pool. In terms of depth, three feet is standard for soaking and floating, and four to five feet and above is the best depth for lap pools.
Why should you not put in a pool?
Here are six reasons not to own a pool.
- High installation costs. ...
- Time and money in maintenance. ...
- Scary safety issues. ...
- Higher insurance rates. ...
- Repair Costs. ...
- No help at resale.
Does pool size matter?
There's a common perception out there that effective squad training can only be done in a large-length pool – wrong! It's not the length that matters, it the technique being taught.
27 related questions foundIs 12x24 inground pool too small?
A 12x24 foot pool has a surface area that covers 288 feet, so it should be big enough for your needs based on this rough calculation.
What is a good size pool for a family?
It's recommended having a depth fewer than six feet to meet most pool needs. For a family of six to eight people, an 18 foot by 36-foot pool is recommended. This should be sufficient to avoid crowding and allow for the playing of games. Rectangle shaped pools look best for this size.
What I Wish I Knew Before building a pool?
4 Things I Wish I Knew Before Installing My Pool
- There is a Reason Some Pool Materials Cost More. ...
- Pool Features are Important to the Overall Enjoyment. ...
- Not Every “Pool Company” Does a Turnkey Operation. ...
- Choosing the Wrong Pool Company Can Set You Up for Disappointment.
What do I need to know before buying a pool?
10 Factors to Consider Before Building a Pool
- Know your zoning laws. ...
- Decide on the type of pool you want. ...
- Look toward longevity. ...
- Seek out a quality circulation system. ...
- Think about how much can you maintain. ...
- Weigh water features and lighting. ...
- Don't forget landscaping. ...
- Determine your budget.
Is having a pool a lot of work?
Pool owners spend $125 on average to have their pool maintained weekly by a professional, according to HomeAdvisor.com. The service includes skimming the water's surface for floating debris, vacuuming the pool floor, brushing the pool walls, cleaning the filter, and checking the water and pH levels.
What's the smallest pool size?
How small can an in-ground pool be? Most of the smallest in-ground pools across all pool types, on average, are around 12' by 24', 10' by 15', or even a 10' x 10' Spool/Cocktail pool!
Is a 10x20 pool too small?
10 x 20 is considered a small in-ground pool, while a 20 x 40-foot pool is on the larger side of things.
What size pool can I fit in my yard?
Since every backyard is sized differently, there is no hard rule that determines how big a pool should be. However, it's often recommended that a pool take up less than a third of your overall yard. For example, if your backyard is 1,800 square feet, you should aim for a pool that is 600 square feet or smaller.
Can plunge pools be heated?
The Endless Pools® WaterWell pool comes standard with an easy-to-use heating system that can quickly heat the plunge pool to your preferred temperature. With a heated plunge pool, you can even get a comfortable session in during the chilly winter months!
Can you swim in a plunge pool?
While plunge pools are generally thought to be more for relaxing than for swimming, it is possible to swim in a plunge pool. Many plunge pools come with the option of swim jets, which provide an artificial current of resistance so that you can swim in-place for as long as you like.
Is a small pool easy to maintain?
The smaller size of plunge pools means less maintenance and ongoing expense compared to full-size pools. Plunge pools use less water and fewer chemicals, and can be cleaned with a net and a handheld pool vacuum. No need for an expensive pool service or a “robot” pool cleaner.
Are backyard pools worth it?
A pool can increase not only your social worth but also the value of your home. However, the increase is probably not as much as you think. According to HouseLogic, there's no real guarantee that you'll make your money back. In fact, adding a swimming pool may only increase your home's value by 7%.
Where should I put my pool in my backyard?
In small backyard spaces, a pool often must be located close to or adjoining the house itself.
- Pools close to the house are convenient and easy to watch over.
- They are an extension of the home's architecture and should reflect that in the design and/or shape.
What can go wrong with an inground pool?
Here are 10 of the most common problems for a concrete pool—and how you can avoid them.
- Most common issues with concrete pools. Excessively rough surface. ...
- Excessively rough surface. Concrete pool surfaces are rough. ...
- Structural cracks. ...
- Craze cracks. ...
- Scaling. ...
- Discoloration. ...
- Spalling. ...
- Popping up/floating.
Is maintaining a pool expensive?
Pool Maintenance Cost
The average cost to maintain a pool is $80 to $150 monthly or about $960 to $1,800 yearly. For a first-time pool cleaning service, expect to spend $150 to $350 on average. The annual cost to own a pool is $3,000 to $5,000, which includes maintenance, repairs, electricity, and water.
What is a stealth pool?
The Incredible Stealth Semi-Inground Pool
The Stealth Semi-Inground Pool can be sunken partially or it can be almost entirely submerged into the ground. This makes it perfect for backyards with a slope and it all it takes is some simple decking or stonework to completely hide the walls of the pool.
Why do pools cost so much?
The construction process of a swimming pool is costly because of all the equipment involved. When you put in an above-ground pool, the process is typically quite a bit easier. However, very few people realize how much work is done to level the yard to put an above-ground pool in place.
What is the most popular pool size?
The size of an inground pool, on average, often depends greatly on the material it's made out of. For vinyl pools, there are three primary sizes that people consider are usually 16 feet by 32 feet, 18 feet by 36 feet, and 20 feet by 40 feet. Out of these rectangular shapes, 16 feet by 32 feet is the most common choice.
Are rectangular pools cheaper?
When it comes to construction, take note: Rectangular pools typically cost more than curved pools. The reason why is increased perimeter footage. Rectangles may require more square footage in a backyard. A perfect rectangle provides zero flexibility to incorporate or allow for the intrusion of other structures.
What is the most common pool size?
In general, the most common inground pool sizes are:
- 5-10 ft long (spa size)
- 10-15 ft. long.
- 15-20 ft. long.
- 20-25 ft. long (for a small to medium-sized family)
- 25-30 ft. long.
- 30-35 ft. long.
- 35-40 ft. long.
- 40-45 ft. long (for the serious swimmer!)