Advantages of Building a DIY Small Pool vs. Contractor Built Pool

Feb 4, 2025 | Plunge Pools

Advantages of Building a DIY Small Pool vs. a Contractor-Built Pool

There is a big advantage of building a small DIY pool in your backyard. With a small pool project, homeowners often face a crucial decision. Should they hire a contractor for a large, professionally built pool, or take the DIY route and construct a small, customized pool themselves? While contractor-built pools have their appeal, a DIY small pool, (AKA Plunge Pool), offers numerous advantages, including cost savings, personalization, and flexibility in design.

In this blog, we’ll explore the many benefits of owning a backyard DIY small pool compared to a traditional contractor-built pool. From versatility and aesthetics to cost-efficiency and ease of installation, we’ll show you why a DIY small pool is a fantastic choice for your backyard oasis.

Building a DIY Small Pool is Cost-Effective and Budget-Friendly

One of the most significant advantages of a DIY small pool is the cost savings. Contractor-built pools often come with hefty price tags. Costs typically ranging from $50,000 to $100,000 or more, depending on size, materials, and custom features. In contrast, a DIY small pool can be built for a fraction of the cost. Instead spend, ($7500-$12,000) allowing homeowners to enjoy the luxury of a backyard pool without breaking the bank.

More Than Just Building a DIY Small Pool: Versatility

By opting for a DIY build, you eliminate costly labor fees and have greater control over material expenses. Additionally, a small pool requires fewer resources, making it an economical as well as a long-term investment. A DIY small pool is not just for swimming—it can serve multiple functions that enhance your lifestyle. Whether you’re looking to relax, exercise, or entertain guests, a small pool can cater to your needs.

Relaxation and Stress Relief

After a long day, there’s nothing better than unwinding in a private backyard retreat. A DIY small pool offers the perfect setting for relaxation, whether you choose to soak in warm water, lounge on a pool float, or enjoy even hydrotherapy jets.

Fitness and Exercise

A small pool can double as a fitness space, providing low-impact workouts that are easy on the joints. Whether you prefer water aerobics, resistance exercises, or even swimming with a tether system, a DIY small pool supports an active lifestyle.

Social Gatherings and Entertainment

Hosting a backyard get-together becomes effortless with a DIY small pool. It creates a welcoming atmosphere where friends and family can cool off, chat, and enjoy each other’s company. Pair it with a fire pit, outdoor seating, and mood lighting, and you have the perfect entertainment hub.

Custom Aesthetic Options for a Stunning Backyard

One of the biggest perks of building your own pool is the ability to customize it to match your aesthetic preferences. Unlike contractor-built pools, which may have limited design options, a DIY small pool allows for creative, personalized features that enhance the overall ambiance of your outdoor space.

Waterfalls and Rain Walls

Adding a waterfall or rain wall to your DIY small pool can create a tranquil, spa-like experience. The soothing sound of cascading water adds a sense of luxury while also helping to circulate and oxygenate the pool water. These type DIY add-ons are surprisingly inexpensive.

Fire Features and Mood Lighting

A fire pit near your pool adds warmth, ambiance, and visual appeal. Imagine relaxing in your pool at night with the soft glow of a fire nearby—it’s an experience that combines relaxation with aesthetic charm. LED lighting, floating lights, and pathway illumination can further enhance the nighttime atmosphere.

Built-In Seating and Lounge Areas

With a DIY build, you can incorporate custom seating options, such as submerged benches, loungers, or even an integrated spa section. These features make your pool more functional and comfortable for socializing or simply enjoying the water.

Ease of Installation and Ongoing Maintenance

Building a DIY small pool is easier than many homeowners think, thanks to the availability of resources, guidance, and support. At Custom Built Spas, we offer comprehensive instructions, step-by-step videos, and expert advice to help you successfully construct your dream pool.

Step-by-Step Guidance

Even if you’re not a professional builder, a DIY small pool project is entirely achievable with the right guidance. Our easy-to-follow instructions take the guesswork out of construction, covering everything from excavation to plumbing and finishing touches.

Simpler Maintenance

A smaller pool means less maintenance. With fewer gallons of water, it takes less time and effort to clean, treat, and maintain the water chemistry. DIY pools often use energy-efficient pumps and filtration systems, which further reduce maintenance costs.

The Joy of Accomplishment: A Pool Built by You

One of the most rewarding aspects of a DIY pool project is the sense of accomplishment that comes with it. Knowing that you designed and built your own backyard oasis adds a layer of personal satisfaction that a contractor-built pool simply can’t match.

By choosing to build your own small pool, you have the freedom to create a unique, functional, and beautiful backyard space that aligns with your vision—without the restrictions of a cookie-cutter contractor design.

Get Started on Your DIY Small Pool Today

If you’ve ever dreamed of having a pool but thought it was out of reach, a DIY small pool is the perfect solution. It’s affordable, versatile, easy to maintain, and completely customizable to suit your needs and preferences.

At Custom Built Spas, we provide all the resources you need to make your DIY pool project a success. From step-by-step instructions to expert support, we help homeowners turn their backyard visions into reality.

Start your journey toward a beautiful, cost-effective backyard retreat today! Contact Custom Built Spas for guidance, materials, and expert advice on building your own DIY small pool. Your dream backyard is closer than you think!

GET STARTED TODAY

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Remember, my Mission is to help you, as my customer, build a beautiful hot tub of your own! I can show you how to build Spas, Hot Tubs, Swim Spas, Plunge Pools, Cocktail Pools or Exercise Pools at incredibly affordable prices! Everything you need to know is outlined in my series of easy-to-follow books and videos that cover a simple, step-by-step process that I’ve developed and refined over the years.

I will teach and help you with everything you need to know about building your own spa, hot tub, or swim spa yourself, regardless of what your DIY skill levels are and at a cost, YOU determine YOU can afford. As my customer, I’ll work with you at your own pace until your project is done and comes to life! For over 25 years now I’ve been helping people just like you, build their own hot tubs, spas, and swim spa projects. So, are you’re ready to let me help you build your project? Then what are you waiting for, let’s do this!

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