Owning a pool is a great way to add value to a home—the most sought-after homes in the property market often include one. However, owning a pool is not a one and done deal. When it comes to pool installation in NZ, you need to consider what happens after the installation is finished, and factor in the costs of managing and maintaining it regularly.
Here’s what you need to know about the true costs of owning a swimming pool in NZ!
Cost Factors
Before going into specifics, you need to look at two main cost areas when owning a pool. The first one is the costs associated with building, setting-up, and running the pool, while the second is the costs required to regularly maintain it.
Types of in-ground pool
In New Zealand, the most common types of pool found in residential homes are fiberglass, concrete, or vinyl liners. Naturally, the costs will vary depending on what kind of pool you choose.
Fibreglass pool installation costs
Having a fiberglass pool professionally installed begins around $35,000 to $40,000 for smaller installations. Larger fiberglass pools can cost up to $70,000. These price points may change, as many factors can influence the costs, including design, pool size, the manufacturer of the pool shell, condition of the soil, and any additional features that may add to the look or function of your in-ground pool.
It’s important to note that not all fibreglass pools are the same. There are still substantial differences among them, so it’s best to really narrow down your options by looking at the main benefits or features that each one offers, and choosing the one that best suits you and your family’s lifestyle.
Vinyl-liner pool installation cost
Vinyl-liner pools are less common in New Zealand but they have the same range of installation costs as a fibreglass pool. There’s are available DIY kit options for a vinyl-liner pools, which typically sell for around $10,000. However, that estimate doesn’t include extra installation costs that vinyl-liner pools may require. You still need to research additional construction requirements associated with a DIY pool such as pouring concrete, and this differs between properties.
Concrete pool installation cost
It can be tricky to put a finger on an exact price when installing a concrete pool, because the size and shape aren’t limited to a range of set designs. With a concrete pool, you have the freedom to pick the exact shape and size to suits your home. Ultimately, prices may start at a similar range to fibreglass pools—around $35,000—but the upper limit can be higher depending on specifications.
Swimming pool maintenance costs
Swimming pools, no matter what type, are meant to meet the same criteria as drinking water with regards to the level of bacteria present. This means they require upkeep.
There are many pool and spa products that effectively prevent pools from breeding bacteria. Therefore, pool maintenance requires effective sterilisation, pH control testing, and a good filtration system. In New Zealand, annual maintenance costs have been estimated to be approximately $1,000, but can vary depending on the size and type of the pool. Some pools come with built-in automatic pool cleaners and other sterilization devices, which can help make maintenance minimal.
Concrete pools may need more ongoing attention, as concrete makes an ideal breeding environment for algae and bacteria. They also require aesthetic maintenance and normally need to be acid-washed every three to five years, and plastered every 10 to 15 years.
For an average-sized vinyl lined pool, you’re looking at $4,000 to get a good quality liner. Liners should be replaced at least once every ten years.
As for fibreglass pools, they may require less maintenance as long as you have sanitisers that prevent the growth of bacteria, and the right levels of chlorine to achieve stable water conditions.
Save more in the long-haul with regular upkeep!
Now that you have an idea of the installation and running costs of a pool, you will have noticed that upkeep costs are all part of allowing you to maximise your investment.
When you take good care of your swimming pool, the less costly it is to maintain it. At Crystal Clear, we offer a full range of pool and spa cleaning supplies, as well as maintenance services, pool equipment repairs, replacements, and everything in between! Ready to jump in? Contact us today!