The cocktail pool, also known as a plunge pool, is essentially just a tiny version of the traditional backyard swimming pool. These come in a variety of shapes and sizes, though you usually find them in rectangular forms.
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!
Small pools go by different names: spools, plunge pools, cocktail pools, and wading pools.
Lower upfront costs - Vinyl liner pools are known as the cheapest inground pools to build. Customizable shape - Choose from freeform, geometric, or even custom designs.
By now, you probably know that there are three types of inground pools: fiberglass, vinyl liner, and concrete (also called gunite). Below is a detailed comparison of these three pool types, including the pros and cons of each.
Concrete With Plaster or Aggregate Finishes
Made of steel-reinforced concrete that forms a shell, concrete and plaster are the most common in-ground pool-building materials and were the first ones used when residential pools became popular.
One of the biggest advantages of a semi inground pool is the cost. They're generally less expensive than fully inground pools because they don't require as much excavation. Plus, the installation process is usually quicker, which can save you money on labor costs.
Generally, vinyl liner pools have the lowest initial costs. Thus, you will spend the least amount of money purchasing a vinyl liner pool. On average, vinyl liner pools cost $35,000 to $65,000 to install. Homeowners can customize this pool into various shapes and designs.
The cheapest inground pool solution is often a plunge pool, as these are much smaller in length and width than regular swimming pools. However, they are designed to be extra-deep so you can still enjoy the full benefit of spending time in the water.
Long story short, the type of inground pool that is the easiest to maintain is clearly fiberglass. If you want an even more in-depth comparison of vinyl vs concrete vs fiberglass pools, check out our comparisons of inground pools.
The Fiji Plunge™ Compact. Joyful comfort. If tight spaces and boundary fences are an issue, the Fiji Plunge™ is the solution. You can't go wrong with the spacious wading area and bench seat to which you can add a couple of spa jets and enjoy a soothing water massage and the therapeutic benefits it can give you.
Short course yards, or SCYs, for 25 yard pools. Short course meters, or SCMs, for 25 meter pools.
Not only are smaller pools easier to maintain, but they're less expensive as well. Installation will surely be cheaper, and you'll spend less money on chemicals or tools for maintenance. Plus, a small pool is easier to insulate, so you can keep your pool at the perfect temperature without breaking the bank.
Most “fun” pools should have a minimum depth of three feet to accommodate for both adults and children, and a maximum depth of four to five feet, for safety.
The Lazy L Swimming Pool has more organic shapes, less defined angles, and curved lines. Families love it because of the clear separation of the deep end and shallow end. The shallow end has more slanting edges/curves, making it easier to hide pool steps.
If you want your pool to be ready for the summer, opt for a spring installation. However, if you want the best price, build your pool in the fall or winter.
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%.
Concrete – Most Expensive and labor intensive construction of all. The pool finish can be abrasive on the bottom of the feet, especially once the swimmers feet become 'pruney' and extra soft.
Prefab pool houses are typically less expensive to purchase and install than custom-built pool houses. Prefab structures cost about $5,000 to $44,000, though they are not as durable or long-lasting as custom-built pool house structures.
Fiberglass pools are the simplest, and least expensive type of inground pool you can get. They're the easiest to install because the pool shell is made of fiberglass and is manufactured before installation.
As the name suggests, semi-inground pools can be partially buried deeper than an above ground pool. They can also be fully buried and even installed as a traditional above ground pool. Here are a few significant differences between above ground and semi-inground pools when it comes to burying.
Versatility: Another advantage is that you can bury your semi-inground pool up to whatever depth you want. This versatility is critical because the layout of your yard could require the pool to be a certain height off the ground for aesthetics or if you need to build it into a hill.