Why DIY Inground Pool Building Usually Costs More Than You Think
Building your own inground pool may seem like a savvy way to save money, and on paper, some do-it-yourself pool kits and contractor-free projects look tempting. But many DIYers underestimate the hidden costs, technical challenges, and long-term risks that can make a seemingly “cheap” project much more expensive in practice. In this article, you’ll see where most DIY pool projects go off course, and why hiring professionals or at least understanding all costs upfront is critical.
Key Takeaways
- DIY pool projects often cost more than expected once permits, prep, and materials are added
- Hidden expenses like excavation, plumbing, and electrical work can erase “savings”
- Structural or engineering mistakes can lead to leaks or costly repairs
- DIY builds rarely include strong warranties or long-term support
- Professional installation = safety, durability, and long-term value
The Illusion of Savings: What You Think You’re Avoiding
You might think avoiding contractor fees, labor, and markups will make DIY cheaper. And yes, in some small-scale or very basic scenarios, you may shave off a portion of costs. But the moment you begin factoring in site preparation, permits, structural engineering, plumbing, electricals, finishes, and compliance, most “DIY savings” vanish.
Take this context: the average inground pool installation cost now ranges from $48,000 to $87,500, with a national average near $66,000. Even for DIY owners, base costs (materials + core structure) often start at $30,000+ before features or landscaping.
Common Cost Pitfalls in DIY Pool Projects
Before you order that kit, be aware these are the most frequent reasons DIY projects can overrun:
- Excavation & Site Prep
Clearing rock, leveling ground, managing runoff, and soil stabilization can drive up costs significantly, often requiring heavy machinery. - Permits, Codes & Inspections
Local regulations, structural approvals, and compliance add hidden fees and delays that DIYers often overlook. - Structural & Engineering Mistakes
Pools demand precision. Errors in formwork, reinforcement, or grade can lead to leaks, cracking, or collapse. - Plumbing, Electrical & Equipment Failures
DIY errors in pump size, piping layout, wiring, or filtration can lead to inefficiency or repairs that cost more than professional installation would have. - Finishes, Coping & Decking Upgrades
The allure of exotic tile, custom decking, lighting, and water features compounds costs far beyond basic shell kits. - Ongoing Maintenance & Repairs
Even a well-built pool requires upkeep. DIYers often miscalculate monthly chemical, filter, repair, and energy costs.
Discover: Allstar Pools Ongoing Pool Maintenance Services
When DIY Might Work (and When It Doesn’t)
Not all DIY projects fail, but they tend to succeed only under very specific conditions. If your land is flat, accessible, free of rock, and your pool design is simple (e.g. rectangular vinyl liner pool), then a DIY project may come in under budget. But the more custom you go, the more the risks and costs multiply.
If you later decide to add features like salt systems, heaters, or lighting, many simple DIY designs lack the structural flexibility to integrate them without costly retrofits.
How to Estimate True Cost Before You Build
To protect yourself from expensive surprises, evaluate your project against these steps:
- Get multiple quotes from contractors to use as a benchmark.
- Break out line-item costs for excavation, structure, plumbing, equipment, finishes, and contingencies.
- Add 15–25% contingency for unforeseen soil, access, or permitting issues.
- Factor in life-cycle costs (maintenance, resurfacing, energy) over 10 years.
- Decide where professional help is non-negotiable (structural, waterproofing, electrical).
Avoiding Hidden Costs and Risks
DIY inground pools carry more hidden costs and risks than most people expect.
What begins as a cost-saving project can end with structural repairs, unexpected professional intervention, or compromised safety.
If your vision is more than a basic design in a perfect yard, a partially or fully professionally-built pool solution may deliver better long-term value and peace of mind than that pool kit.
Additionally, we are partnered with some of the most reputable pool companies in the nation, Barrier Reef Fiberglass Pools, LLC and Latham Pool Products, Inc., both of which offer industry-leading warranties. Often, a pool kit will come with a limited warranty that is dependent on professional installation.
Ready to Build Smarter, Not Harder?
If you’re dreaming of a backyard oasis, you don’t have to take on the risk, stress, or hidden costs of doing it yourself. The experts at All Star Pool Company bring decades of hands-on experience in custom inground pool design, construction, and renovation, delivering results that last for years to come.
From your first consultation to the final splash, our team handles every detail with precision, transparency, and care. We’ll help you understand your options, budget accurately, and build a pool that fits your home and lifestyle perfectly.
Call Allstar Pool Company at (843) 947-0077 or schedule your free consultation online today.
Let’s turn your vision into a backyard oasis you’ll enjoy for decades, without the DIY headaches.