Building a swimming pool is a big decision. For many homeowners, it’s a long-term investment that adds value to the home, creates a place to relax, and turns the backyard into a space for entertaining and family time. While the idea of owning a pool is exciting, one of the first questions people ask is also one of the most important:
What is the most expensive part of building a pool?
The short answer is, it depends. Pool pricing is not based on just one item. Several parts of the process can become expensive depending on your design choices, your property, and the level of detail you want. Some homeowners are surprised to learn that the pool itself isn’t always the highest cost. In many cases, the surrounding features and preparation work can cost just as much or more.
Understanding where your money goes during pool construction helps you plan better, avoid unexpected expenses, and make choices that fit your budget and lifestyle. Below, we break down every major cost involved in building a pool and explain which parts tend to be the most expensive and why.
1. The Pool Shell: The Core of Your Pool
The pool shell is usually the most expensive part of building a pool. This is the main structure that holds all the water and gives the pool its shape. The shell determines how strong your pool is, how long it will last, and what kind of design you can have.
Why the Shell Costs So Much
Making a pool shell takes a lot of work, materials, and skill. Some of the main steps include:
- Excavation: Digging out the backyard to the exact shape and depth of your pool.
- Steel Reinforcement: Installing rebar for strength to make sure the pool won’t crack or settle over time.
- Concrete Application: Many pools in Florida use gunite or shotcrete, which is sprayed concrete that forms a strong and smooth shell. This method is labour-intensive but allows custom shapes.
- Curing and Shaping: After the concrete is sprayed, it needs time to cure properly and be shaped perfectly.
Custom designs like freeform shapes, tanning ledges, or multiple levels increase the shell cost because they require more engineering and labour. Even adding built-in steps or benches can make a big difference in price.
2. Excavation and Preparing the Site
Before construction even begins, your yard needs to be prepared. Excavation and site preparation are a big part of the cost, but they are essential to making sure your pool lasts for years.
What Makes Excavation Expensive
- Rocky or Hard Soil: Digging through rock takes extra equipment and time.
- High Water Table: Florida has areas where the groundwater is high. Pools built in these spots may need special pumps to remove water during construction.
- Sloped or Uneven Yard: Your yard may need grading or retaining walls to make it level, which adds cost.
- Limited Access: If big machines can’t get to your backyard, extra labour is needed.
Site preparation is a crucial step that homeowners often overlook. Skipping or underestimating it can lead to problems later, so it’s important to factor it into your budget.
3. Pool Finish: The Look and Feel Inside Your Pool
Once the pool shell is done, the interior finish comes next. The finish affects how the pool looks, how it feels, and how long it lasts. It’s another area that can get expensive, especially if you want a high-end look.
Popular Finish Options
- Plaster: Affordable, smooth, and classic, but may need resurfacing every few years.
- Quartz: More durable than plaster and comes in many colours. Resists stains and lasts longer.
- Pebble or Aggregate Finish: A premium choice that gives your pool a natural, luxury feel. Extremely durable, slip-resistant, and long-lasting.
Your finish choice affects both upfront cost and long-term maintenance. While plaster is cheaper, quartz or pebble finishes are often worth the extra money because they hold up better over time.
4. Pool Equipment: Pumps, Heaters, and More
Your pool won’t function without equipment. Pumps, filters, heaters, and automation systems make up a big part of the cost.
Key Equipment Components
- Pumps: Variable-speed pumps are more expensive but save energy in the long run.
- Filtration Systems: High-quality filters keep your pool clean and healthy.
- Heaters: Options include gas, electric, or heat pump heaters. If you have a spa, you may need a larger heater.
- Automation Systems: Smart systems let you control lights, pumps, and heaters from your phone.
- Sanitation Systems: Saltwater or chemical systems keep the water balanced.
High-quality equipment costs more upfront but saves money on maintenance and energy bills over time. Investing in good equipment also extends the life of your pool.
5. Plumbing and Electrical Work
Plumbing and electrical systems are essential for a functioning pool. These costs can be high, especially if you add extra features.
Why Plumbing and Electrical Can Be Costly
- Pipes for drains, skimmers, returns, and water features.
- Wiring for pumps, heaters, lights, and automation systems.
- Safety codes and inspections require certified professionals.
If you include luxury features like waterfalls, fountains, or spas, the plumbing and electrical work become more complex, increasing costs.
6. Pool Decking and Surrounding Area
The area around your pool, including the deck and hardscaping, is important for both safety and style. Decking can be surprisingly expensive, especially if you choose premium materials.
Popular Decking Options
- Concrete: Simple, cost-effective, and can be stamped for extra style.
- Pavers: Durable, heat-resistant, and stylish.
- Natural Stone: Looks beautiful and cool underfoot, but costs more.
- Travertine: A luxury material with slip resistance and a classic look.
Decking costs also include preparing the ground and sometimes adding borders, lighting, or decorative elements. For luxury pools, decking can even be one of the largest parts of the budget.
7. Water Features and Luxury Upgrades
Luxury features can make your pool feel like a resort, but they also increase the cost significantly. While optional, they often make a huge difference in both appearance and enjoyment.
Common Luxury Additions
- Raised Spas with Spillovers: Adds style, sound, and relaxation.
- Waterfalls or Sheer Descents: Beautiful, but require extra plumbing and pumps.
- Fire Features: Fire bowls or fire pits add ambiance and require professional installation.
- Sun Shelves or Swim-Up Bars: Great for lounging, but increase construction costs.
- LED Lighting: Colour-changing lights make your pool stand out at night.
Even one or two luxury features can add thousands to your total cost. Multiple features increase costs further, so it’s important to prioritize what you really want.
8. Pool Enclosures and Screens (Important in Florida)
In Florida, pool enclosures are common because they help keep out bugs, leaves, and debris. While optional, they are often highly recommended and can be costly.
Why Enclosures Cost So Much
- Aluminium framing and screen materials.
- Structural engineering to meet safety codes.
- Custom sizes for large or irregularly shaped pools.
- Permits and inspections.
Enclosures are an investment in long-term comfort and low maintenance. They also protect your pool and backyard from the elements.
9. Permits, Engineering, and Inspections
Building a pool legally requires permits, engineering plans, and inspections. These costs aren’t optional and can add up quickly.
What You Should Expect
- Engineering plans for the pool’s structure.
- Soil tests and site analysis.
- Local permits and safety inspections.
Even though these aren’t visible features, skipping them can cause legal problems or safety issues. It’s important to budget for these costs from the beginning.
10. Landscaping and Restoring Your Yard
After construction, your backyard may need restoration. Landscaping can become a big expense, especially for luxury pool projects.
Landscaping Costs Can Include
- Replacing or grading sod.
- Planting trees, bushes, or flowers.
- Repairing or installing irrigation systems.
- Adding outdoor lighting or decorations.
Well-planned landscaping makes your pool area feel complete and inviting. Many homeowners spend as much on landscaping as they do on decking or features.
11. Understanding Total Pool Costs
When you add everything together, the pool shell is usually the single most expensive part, but other elements like decking, equipment, and luxury upgrades can quickly match or exceed it depending on your choices.
The most expensive part of building a pool depends on:
- Level of customization: Freeform or multi-level pools cost more.
- Material quality: Premium finishes and decking increase costs.
- Site conditions: Excavation challenges or a high water table add expense.
- Features and equipment: spas, water features, and automation increase the budget.
By understanding where your money goes, you can prioritize what matters most, balance your budget, and still get the pool you’ve dreamed about.
How Aqua Elite Pool Helps Homeowners Save Smartly
At Aqua Elite Pool, we guide homeowners through every step of pool construction. We help you:
- Choose materials that last and look great.
- Find the balance between luxury features and budget.
- Plan for energy-efficient equipment to save money long-term.
- Avoid costly mistakes during construction.
We make sure your pool project is clear, stress-free, and designed to fit your lifestyle and budget.
Ready to Build Your Dream Pool?
Building a pool is a big investment, but with the right planning and guidance, it can be a smooth and exciting process. If you’re ready to start planning your pool, the team at Aqua Elite Pool is here to help. We can answer all your questions, provide detailed cost estimates, and help design a pool that suits your backyard and lifestyle perfectly.
📧 Contact us today: welcome@aquaelitepool.com
Whether you want a sleek modern pool, a freeform resort-style retreat, or a family-friendly space, we have the experience to bring your vision to life.