Deciding to install a backyard pool is a major investment that enhances both your home’s value and your quality of life. But before you can dive in, you have to choose a design, and the right choice will depend on your budget, backyard, and personal style. Working with professional pool builders ensures you explore all options and find the perfect fit for your family.
This guide will break down the differences between custom and standard pool designs to help you make an informed decision.
Custom vs. Standard Pools: What’s the Difference?
Here’s a quick introduction to the differences and benefits of custom and standard pools:
Custom Pools
A custom pool is designed from the ground up to match your specific vision and property layout. This lets you exercise creative control over the shape, size, depth, and features like waterfalls, lighting, and integrated spas, with guidance from your pool builders. These pools are ideal for homeowners with unique backyard shapes or specific aesthetic goals.
Standard Pools
Standard pools are based on pre-designed templates. While they offer less flexibility, these designs still allow you to choose from a variety of shapes, such as rectangular or kidney-shaped, but the core structure is predetermined. This simplifies the decision-making process and often speeds up installation.
Pros and Cons of Each Option
Each pool type offers distinct advantages and disadvantages.
Custom Pools
Pros:
- Complete Design Freedom: Your imagination is the only limit. Create a pool that perfectly complements your home’s architecture and landscape.
- Fits Most Yards: Custom designs can be tailored to fit unconventional spaces, including narrow, sloped, or small backyards.
- Higher Long-Term Value: A unique, high-quality pool can be a major selling point, potentially increasing your property’s resale value.
Cons:
- Higher Cost: The personalized design process, unique materials, and complex construction can lead to a higher price tag, but that’s solely dependent on what design you choose.
- Longer Build Time: Creating a custom pool is a more detailed process, from design approval to final construction, as it often requires collaboration between the client and the company.
Standard Pools
Pros:
- Cost-Effective: Pre-designed models reduce design and engineering costs, making them a more budget-friendly option.
- Quicker Installation: Since the plans are already set, experienced pool builders can complete the project faster.
- Proven Designs: These models have been built countless times, ensuring a reliable and functional layout.
Cons:
- Limited Customization: You have fewer options for shape, size, and features, which can feel restrictive.
- May Not Suit All Properties: A standard shape might not work well with an irregularly shaped or sloped yard.
Key Factors to Consider
Before you decide, think about these five factors:
- Budget: How much are you willing to invest? Custom pools offer limitless flexibility for features and materials, but sometimes at a higher cost. Standard pools can be more affordable, however, leaving more room in the budget for extras like decking or landscaping.
- Backyard Size and Shape: A standard rectangular pool might not be feasible for a narrow or sloped yard. In such cases, a custom design is often the only way to maximize the space.
- Maintenance Needs: Complex custom designs with features like infinity edges or waterfalls may require more specialized upkeep than a simple standard pool.
- Aesthetic Preferences: Your pool should feel like a natural extension of your home. Consider which design type best aligns with your property’s existing style.
- Long-Term Value: A well-maintained in-ground pool can increase a home’s value by up to 7%, so it’s worth thinking about resale possibilities. While both pool types add value, a stunning custom design may have a stronger appeal to future buyers.
Partner with Tampa Bay’s Top Pool Builders
Choosing between a custom and standard pool design is a significant decision, but working with experienced pool builders ensures you receive expert guidance from start to finish. As Tampa Bay’s #1 voted pool builder, Oasis Pavers and Pools has decades of experience providing:
- Expert guidance: From initial design to final planning, our experts offer invaluable advice to ensure your pool meets your needs and complements your home.
- Quality materials and craftsmanship: As experienced builders, we have access to the best materials and possess the skills to ensure a high-quality, long-lasting installation.
- Seamless project management: Our professional team handles all the details, from coordinating schedules to managing subcontractors, making the entire process smooth and stress-free.
Ready to explore your custom options? We have a team of professional pool builders ready to bring your vision to life.
Let’s Build Your Dream Pool
There’s no doubt that a one-of-a-kind custom creation steals the show, and the right team makes all the difference. The award-winning pool builders at Oasis Pavers and Pools are ready to help you design and build the perfect backyard retreat. Check out our gallery today to see what’s possible and request a quote.
