In Michigan, you can expect to pay between $20,000 and $100,000 for an in-ground pool.
This cost includes everything you need – design, permitting, excavation, fabrication/installation, coping, detailed trim, decking, plumbing, electrical work, pool pump & filter, and required safety equipment.
That said, several factors will determine the final price of an inground swimming pool.
These include the size of the pool, the type of construction, the location, and the materials used.
Factors That Determine The Cost To Install a Pool
Size of Pool
The first and most important factor determining the price of an in-ground swimming pool is its size.
The larger the pool (in gallons), the higher the price.
This is because bigger pools require more concrete, steel, and labor than smaller ones. And, of course, the larger the pool, the more features, and options.
Location
The second factor influencing the price of an inground swimming pool is its location.
Installing a simple in-ground pool in a flat backyard in relatively soft & dry ground is the cheapest and easiest situation.
But if your yard is sloped or has underground issues such as a high water table, rocks/boulders/roots to remove, or soft pockets underground, it will cost more to clear those obstacles and install a proper foundation for your pool.
Materials Used
The third factor that affects the price is the material used to construct your pool.
A pool made of fiberglass costs less than one made of concrete or gunite.
Fiberglass is lighter and easier to transport. It is also cheaper to install. But it will limit your design possibilities.
Labor Required
The amount of labor needed is another factor that can increase the overall cost of your pool.
The amount of labor required depends on the size and complexity of the project.
For instance, a simple rectangular 15,000-gallon 16×24 gunite pool installation with a simple concrete deck will probably require two full-time laborers for approximately 1-3 weeks.
On the other hand, a larger 50-ft custom-designed pool w/ a spa and water feature may require four laborers to work full-time for six weeks.
In addition, tile craftsmen and paver experts may be required to finish a more elaborate design to your standards.
Local Costs
The final factor determining the installation price is your local labor and material costs.
Labor and delivery costs will be steeper in more affluent towns like Ann Arbor and more populated centers like Detroit.
Maintenance Costs
Maintenance costs will vary depending on the pool size you install.
For each additional 10,000 gallons of water you add to your design, every single downstream cost will go up – noticeably.
This includes the utility cost for heating & cooling, the pool chemicals consumed each year, the size of the pool filter and pump required, and the size of the pool cleaner needed – all of these ultimately depend on your pool size.
So wherever possible, build a bit smaller than your brain can imagine.
Additional Features
Some pools include features such as spa tubs, waterfalls, and lighting. These add to the overall cost of the pool.
Michigan Fiberglass In-Ground Pool Costs
Fiberglass pools are a great affordable pool option in Michigan.
You can expect to spend between $20,000 to $50,000 for one in our state.
Modern fiberglass pools come in a surprisingly wide variety of shapes, colors, and textures these days.
Because most are pre-molded complete tubs, fiberglass pools are simple and inexpensive to install.
Larger pools may require a cement enclosure or foundation, however.
Michigan Vinyl-Liner In-Ground Pool Costs
A vinyl liner pool costs significantly less than a gunite pool and cost about the same as a fiberglass pool.
Vinyl liners are usually installed over a fiberglass tub or a concrete slab.
Vinyl liners are easy to clean, replace, and maintain. They do not rust and are resistant to damage caused by chemicals and UV rays. Repairing them is relatively easy, too.
However, there are some disadvantages associated with using vinyl liners.
For example, they cannot withstand super high temperatures. And they are relatively east to tear, leading to leaks.
Michigan Gunite In-Ground Pool Costs
The longest-lasting type of pool to install in Michigan is a gunite pool.
These durable pools are the best choice if you want something custom-designed, extra large, or want to incorporate spas or water features into the design.
That said, gunite pools are about 50% more expensive to install than fiberglass or vinyl-lined pools due to their construction, which requires pouring concrete into rebar-reinforced structures.
More labor is involved, and special skills are needed to do this work correctly.
Michigan Inground Pool Owners Have an Abbreviated Swim Season
If you live in Michigan, you only get at most six months in the swimming season.
So you’ll need to decide how much you want to invest in an in-ground pool during those months.
If you do choose to buy a pool with a water heater, you’ll be able to enjoy the benefits of owning an in-ground pool all year round. The utility bills will make your eyes water, however, if you don’t also invest in a solar water heater.
What Are The Pros And Cons Of Installing An In-Ground Pool In Michigan?
Pros
The benefits of having an in-ground pool are numerous. Here are just a few:
Swim Year-Round
Even though Michigan has a short summer, you can add a heater and still enjoy swimming throughout the year.
Save Money On Electricity (vs. above-ground pools)
In-ground pools require less electricity per gallon of water than above-ground swimming pools.
Stay in Shape & Relax
Pools help maintain a healthy environment around them. In addition, swimming helps reduce stress levels.
Get More Out Of Your Backyard
Having a pool allows you to enjoy more out of your backyard. You can entertain guests, relax with friends, and play sports.
Swimming pools are a great way to cool off during hot summers.
Cons
Excavation Required
You will lose a big part of your yard. And the construction may require moving yard plumbing and trees.
Costly Investment
Installing an in-ground pool is a costly investment. Therefore, you must know what you’re paying for – and how much the downstream maintenance costs will be – before purchasing one.
Can Be Dangerous For Kids
Kids can fall into the deep end of an in-ground pool and drown. They can also fall through cracks in the concrete and break their legs.
How to Maintain an In-ground Pool & Keep Your Family Safe
Maintaining your in-ground pool takes time and effort. However, it’s well worth the trouble. A properly maintained pool looks great and provides years of enjoyment.
The following tips will help you maintain your pool throughout its life span.
Keep Your Chemicals Right
In order to prevent algae blooms and bacteria from ruining your short summer season, you must keep your pool chemistry in check.
Buy test strips to test your water weekly, and make sure your chlorine level and pH level are maintained.
Check Your Pool Equipment Weekly
Pool pumps, cleaners, and filters work best when they run without obstructions.
So check your pool filter’s leaf trap frequently to ensure that water is flowing smoothly through your system.
In addition, make sure your strainers and pool cleaner are emptied at least once per week.
Also, check to see if there are any leaks around your pump. Leaks can cause damage to your pump and lead to expensive repairs.
Change Your Filters Every Six Months
Changing your filters every six months ensures you get the most out of them. In addition, changing your filters removes the gunk that has built up over time.
As a result, your filters perform better and last longer. Also, changing your filters less often means spending more on replacement parts.
Install Safety Fencing Around Your Pool
If you have children in your neighborhood, safety fencing should surround your pool deck.
Install Ladders
Ladders in your pool make it easier for kids to get in and out of the pool.
Don't Leave Children Alone With Your Pool
Children shouldn’t be left alone in your pool. They could fall in and drown.
Keep Pets Away From Your Pool
Pets can drown in a pool and can cause people to drown. They can also damage vinyl liners and pool equipment.
Conclusion
An inground swimming pool is a big investment. And in Michigan, our season is short.
Therefore, it is essential to consider the different factors that affect your pool’s price – and don’t buy one too large unless you’re clear on the long-term costs you’re incurring.
FAQs
Q: Do I need a permit to install a pool in Michigan?
A: Yes. Per the 2015 Michigan Residential Code, a building permit is required for any pool that is 24 inches or deeper or holds more than 5000 gallons of water.
Q: What makes an in-ground pool more expensive than an above-ground one?
A: Many things contribute to the extra cost of an in-ground pool, but mostly it boils down to the amount of labor involved and the materials used.
Q: Can I build my own pool in Michigan?
A: Yes, you can build your own pool. But we strongly recommend you hire a pool professional to do it instead. One key mistake can cost you many thousands in repairs and rework down the line.
Q: How long does it take to install a pool?
A: Depending on the pool size & type of pool, installation can take anywhere from 1 week to several months.
Q: Will my pool require maintenance after I install it?
A: Yes, all inground pools require some maintenance. Gunite pools are a bit less expensive over the long-haul, however, due to their durable and leak-proof construction.
Q: Are there any safety concerns when installing an inground pool?
A: Installing an inground pool requires you to dig a large hole in the ground and normally requires the use of heavy equipment. It is essential that you follow all safety precautions when building one.
Q: What should I look for when buying a pool?
A: When looking at pools, you should consider the shape and size you need – err on the smaller size if possible. Then, consider the water features you will want. With these things decided, it’s time to start requesting bids from local installers.
Q: How much do inground pools typically cost?
A: Inground pools generally cost around $30,000-$60,000. However, prices vary depending on the type of pool that you choose. It’s easy to spend more than $100,000 on a nice inground pool these days.
Q: Where can I find more detailed information about pool construction costs?
A: The best place to get detailed information about the cost of constructing a pool is by contacting a local contractor.
