Considering a pool as a home addition is an exciting prospect, but it also involves a good deal of planning. One of the most important things to consider is whether you’ll have enough space for the pool you’re imagining. By estimating with common pool sizes, you can get an idea of what size your pool will be, how much space you’ll need, and how much adding in a pool will cost.
Average Swimming Pool Sizes
Swimming pools, whether they’re indoor or outdoor pools, can be found in almost any shape or size, so you can create a pool that perfectly suits your needs and the style and décor of your house and yard. However, there are a few common dimensions that can help you get a better idea of just how much space pools need.
Most in-ground swimming pools are rectangular or oblong, and they’re usually about twice as long as they are wide.
Small swimming pools are usually about 10 by 20 feet or 3 by 6 meters. Medium-sized swimming pools are around 15 by 30 feet, or 4.5 by 9 meters, while large swimming pools are usually about 20 by 40 feet, or 6 by 12 meters, in size. Most swimming pools, unless there is a deep end for diving, have an average depth of about 5.5 feet, or 1.7 meters.
How Much Space Do I Need for an Outdoor Pool?
The exact amount of space you’ll need for your new pool depends on a number of factors, including the size and shape of the pool, fencing needs, and whether you’ll want to add in space for a deck, waterfall, or other features. In general, however, a pool and the surrounding deck will take up about one-quarter of the available space in your yard.
This means that for a medium-size pool that’s about 15 by 30 feet, you’ll need a yard that’s about 1,800 square feet or 549 square meters.
How Much Space Do I Need for an Indoor Pool?
Like outdoor pools, how much space you’ll need for an indoor pool depends on what amenities you’ll want to add as well as the size and shape of the pool.
However, in general, you’ll want to add at least 1 foot of space to the total width of the pool and 3 feet of space to the total length of the pool. If your indoor pool is 10 by 20 feet, you’ll need 11 by 23 feet or 3.4 by 7 meters of space inside the room.
Space Planning Tips
When you’re figuring out how much space you’ll need for a pool, the exact size of the pool isn’t the only thing to consider. You’ll also want space around the pool for walking. A deck area, where chairs or a table can be placed, is also a good idea. Many areas also require that outdoor pools be fenced in.
Unless your yard is already fenced or walled in, you may want to add in enough space for a security fence. Fencing around a pool is also a great idea if you have small children or pets that shouldn’t have access to the pool without supervision.
You may also want to consider any other backyard or pool amenities before deciding on the size of your pool. If you want to have an enclosed space for changing or showering, for example, you’ll need to make room. You’ll also want to designate an area, either inside or outside the wall, for the pool pump and filtration system.
In addition, if you want to add any extra features, such as a waterfall or any other landscaping ideas, you’ll need to provide adequate space.
Keeping your pool’s design slightly smaller and designing a pool shape that fits into the natural shape of your yard is often a good idea in order to ensure that there’s adequate room and things don’t look cramped.
However, if you have several family members or plan to spend a lot of time in the pool, you might want to build a pool that’s as large as possible to get the most out of your space.
When planning the pool size and location, remember to build away from any tall trees or flowering shrubs. Plants that constantly drop leaves, fruit, or flowers into the pool water can make keeping the pool clean a hassle.
You’ll also need to check for power and water lines underground to ensure that you can dig in the area you’ve picked out.
Does a pool add value to your home?
It’s possible that the addition of a pool can add to your home’s overall value. It’s not always the case but ensuring certain conditions are met will certainly help. This includes your location, the type of pool being installed, and if buyers in your area are interested in having a pool.