Debating how big to go with your in-ground pool? What classifies a big pool versus a medium-sized pool? The best size for your in-ground pool in Florida largely depends on the shape of the pool, the size of your backyard, and how you intend to use it. You don’t want the pool to take up too much or too little of your backyard.
If you’re not sure how big of a pool you need, looking at average pool sizes can help you narrow down your decision. Rectangular pools are generally twice as long on one side as they are on the other. Standard pool dimensions usually measure something like 10 x 20, 15 x 30, and 20 x 40, with an average depth around 5.5 feet.
10 x 20 is considered a small in-ground pool, while a 20 x 40-foot pool is on the larger side of things.
A 12 x 24-foot rectangular pool that reaches 5-foot deep will hold around 10,800 gallons of water, while a 16 x 32-foot pool that also measures around 5-foot in depth, will hold around 19,200 gallons – that’s nearly twice as much water. On average, a 20 x 40-foot pool can hold up to 30,000 gallons.
Of course, not everyone wants a rectangular pool. Therefore, it’s important to consider the shape of the pool that’ll best fit your needs.
What Do You Plan to Use Your Pool For?
Will you be swimming laps in your pool? Is the pool for your children to play in? Are you going to add a water slide or a diving board? All of these questions are important to consider because they will impact the shape, size, design and overall depth of your pool.
If you’re simply looking to create a space to cool off, you don’t need some massive pool. On the other hand, if you plan to spend the summer playing in the pool with extended family and friends, more space will come in handy.
If you plan to use the pool for exercise, you’ll want plenty of space lengthwise. In which case, you could opt for an elongated shape or invest in a lap pool. If your yard isn’t large enough to accommodate a longer pool, a smaller pool can be outfitted with water jets that allow you to swim in place. Just make sure the pool is deep enough so that you have enough space to swim without scraping your hands on the bottom.
If your pool will feature a diving board it must measure a certain width and depth to prevent people from jumping into the side of the pool or hitting their body on the bottom as they slice through the water.
Family size and the number of people who will typically be swimming in your pool at one time should also factor into your decision regarding pool size.
Pool Design -Who Will Be Using the Pool?
The design of your pool is equally important to the size of the pool. For instance, if kids will be using the pool, you need to incorporate a shallow wading area where kids can safely play.
How will people get in and out of the pool? Will the people using your pool be able to get out using a ladder, or would built-in steps make it easier for accessibility? Shallow steps or a beach entry point, where the water starts very shallow and gradually gets deeper, is an ideal option for young kids or if anyone has mobility issues.
Limitations to Pool Size
There are certain factors that’ll limit your ability to build any pool size you want, such as cost and overall space.
The size of a swimming pool is often the biggest factor when it comes to how much it’ll cost. The bigger the pool, the more it’s going to cost because it’ll take longer to construct and require more materials.
Larger pools also require more maintenance and there are more materials to upkeep. Hiring a pool company to take care of maintenance tasks, like cleaning and chemical balancing, may not cost any extra, depending on just how big your pool is.
How much space you have in your backyard for a pool will also determine how large you can go. You still want room to move, lie and play around the pool. Plus, if you have little ones there needs to be enough space to construct a gate for safety.
Let Us Build Your Perfect Pool in South Florida
At Pools by Signature, we are always happy to help you decide on the perfect pool size for your yard, budget, and needs. Contact us today to learn more.