A kayak pool, also known as a swim spa or exercise pool, is a small residential pool designed for swimming in place against an adjustable current. Kayak pools are typically 14-18 feet long and around 8 feet wide, allowing enough room for 1-2 people to swim vigorously back and forth.
The major benefit of a kayak pool is having a compact swimming area that fits in a small backyard. In this blog post, I will discuss the cost of a 16×32 Kayak pool and what factors can impact the price. By the end, you’ll have a better understanding of how much a 16×32 Kayak pool costs and what to expect when investing in one. So, let’s learn in depth!
Cost Breakdown & Planning For 16×32 Kayak Pool
When discussing the cost of a kayak pool, the 16×32 size refers to the total dimensions – 16 feet long by 32 inches wide. This is a common mid-sized model that can accommodate 1-2 swimmers.
The total cost of a 16×32 kayak pool depends on several factors:
I will explain each of these cost factors involved in installing a 16×32 kayak pool in your backyard.
Pool Kit Costs
The main components of a quality 16×32 pool kit will typically include the pool wall panels, bottom rails, vertical uprights, top ledge system, pool liner, skimmer, filter system, ladder, and accessories like handrails and lights.
For a durable steel-wall pool, expect to pay $3,000-$6,000 for the kit alone. Fiberglass pools are more expensive at $6,000-$12,000. Vinyl liner pools are the most affordable DIY option at $2,000-$4,000 for the kit.
Kits at the low end may cut corners on thickness of materials or include lower-end filters and ladders. High-end options feature thicker, galvanized steel and name brand components. Consider longevity and warranty when comparing kit prices.
The size of the kit doesn’t increase costs linearly. More complex shapes and larger sizes do cost more overall, but pricing per square foot often declines for bigger pools. Expect a minimum $3,000 investment for even small, basic kits.
Additional Materials Needed
A 16×32 kayak pool kit contains the basic components for constructing the pool shell and filtration system. However, there are some additional materials you’ll need to factor into the total project cost:
Sand: You’ll need 1.5 to 2 tons of #20 grade pool filter sand for the filter. This typically costs $20-$40 per ton.
Plumbing: Plan on $200-$300 in PVC pipes, glues, unions, valves and fittings to plumb the pump and filter system.
Concrete: Figure around 2-4 yards of concrete to pour the pool floor slab for proper support. Concrete costs $100-$150 per cubic yard.
Electrical: If running new electrical service to the pool equipment, budget $300-$500 in wiring, conduit, breakers and other electrical components.
Misc Supplies: Allow $100-$200 for small supplies like chlorine, test kits, tools, ladders, safety equipment and accessories.
Landscaping: Decorating around the pool with rocks, plants, pathways or decks can cost anywhere from $500 into the thousands depending on materials.
So in total, you’ll need an extra $1,000 – $2,000 or more beyond just the pool kit for a complete installation. Carefully planning out all required materials before starting will help avoid costly delays or change orders during the project. Proper planning upfront makes for smooth, headache-free pool construction.
Excavation & Site Prep
Properly preparing the site is one of the most important steps when installing an in-ground pool. The area must be excavated and leveled to create a solid, stable base for the pool structure. Rushing this process or failing to properly grade and compact the soil can lead to shifting or settling, resulting in cracks and damage to the pool over time.
For a 16×32 foot kayak pool, you’ll need to dig out an area approximately 18×34 feet wide and 2-3 feet deep depending on the pool kit requirements. This will require removing around 45-90 cubic yards of soil. Renting an excavator or backhoe is highly recommended for efficiency. The cost for renting heavy equipment usually ranges from $300-$500 per day. Hiring an excavation contractor to dig the hole will generally cost $1,500-$4,000 depending on the amount of earthwork involved.
Once the hole is dug, the soil must be well-compacted using a vibrating plate compactor. You’ll also need to make sure the base is perfectly level, adding fill material or sand if needed. Having a professional handle the excavation and grading ensures proper drainage and prevents hollow spots under the pool that could cause settling issues.
Overall, plan on budgeting $3,000-$6,000 for site preparation costs when installing an in-ground pool. Spending the extra money upfront to prep the site correctly will save you from expensive repairs down the road.
Permitting & Inspections
Installing an in-ground pool often requires obtaining permits from your local municipality. This ensures the pool is built to code and safe for use.
The permitting process varies by location, but often involves submitting an application along with your pool plans and paying a permit fee. Typical fees range from $100 to $500 depending on where you live.
Once you’ve obtained the permit, inspectors will visit the site at various stages of construction to ensure work complies with codes and regulations. For a 16×32 kayak pool you can expect 2-3 inspections:
- Electrical inspection for new circuits or wiring
- Plumbing inspection for pool piping
- Final inspection to approve the completed pool before filling with water
It’s important to have all required inspections scheduled and passed before starting to use your new pool. Failing to get permits or pass inspections can result in fines, needing to remove or alter the pool, or even criminal charges in some areas.
Following proper permitting and inspection procedures protects homeowners while ensuring a safe end product. Builders may include these costs within their overall pool installation quote. But if you’re managing the pool project yourself, remember to account for permit fees and inspection scheduling during planning.
Professional Installation
Installing an inground pool is a complex project that requires expertise to complete properly. While a DIY installation may seem like a way to save money, hiring professional pool builders is highly recommended for several reasons:
Expertise & Experience: Professional pool builders specialize in pool installations and have the skills and knowledge to ensure proper construction and functioning of the pool. They know the right techniques and can avoid costly mistakes that a DIY installer may make.
Ensures Safety: Professionals follow strict construction standards and safety codes that are important for an inground pool. This helps avoid safety issues like improper wiring, structure flaws, and more.
Access To Proper Equipment: Installers have the heavy machinery, tools, and equipment needed to excavate and build a pool. Renting these can be expensive for a DIY project.
Warranties & Certifications: Professional installations usually come with warranties and meet certifications that won’t be provided with a DIY pool. This gives you assurance and recourse.
Permitting & Inspections: Builders are familiar with the permitting process and inspections required, saving you time and hassle with compliance.
Faster Completion: A professional team can complete the project much faster than a DIY effort. That way, you won’t have to wait long to start having fun in your pool.
High-quality Outcome: Hiring experts who do pool installs every day leads to an ideal finished product. The pool will function and look as it should.
The national average cost for a professional installation of a 16×32 inground pool ranges from $25,000-$45,000. Region, site conditions, and access impact costs. Luxury builders and custom designs can be $60,000 or more. Carefully vet and compare builders to get the best value installation service.
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Ongoing Maintenance
Maintaining your 16 x 32 kayak pool involves regular work to keep the water balanced and clean. Here are some of the routine maintenance tasks and their estimated yearly costs:
Testing & Balancing Chemicals ($150): You’ll need to regularly test and adjust the chlorine, pH, and alkalinity in the pool water. Testing supplies and chemicals will cost around $150 per year.
Cleaning The Pool ($120): Using telescoping poles, nets, and brushes to skim leaves and debris costs about $120 annually. You may need to clean the pool more frequently during the fall.
Running The Pump ($600): Electricity for running the filtration pump will be around $600 per year. It depends on what you pay for electricity and how much you use the pump.
Replacing Salt Cells ($300): If you have a saltwater system, the electrolytic cells will need replacement every 3-5 years at around $300 each time.
Shock Treatments ($50): Periodic shock treatments to sanitize and clarify the water will cost about $50 per year.
Filter Cleaning ($75): Expect to clean out your filter 2-3 times per season, which will cost around $75 for filter cleaner. Cartridge filters may need replacing every 2 years.
Winterizing ($150): Properly closing your pool for winter will cost around $150 for chemicals, cover, draining, and blow-out.
So in total, plan on about $1,500 yearly for chemicals, electricity, routine cleaning and typical maintenance costs for a 16 x 32 kayak pool. Taking care of your pool is very important to keep it clean, crystal clear, and totally safe for swimming.
Additional Features
Upgrading your kayak pool with additional features can enhance the look and functionality but also increase costs. Here’s a quick list of some add-ons that are pretty popular, along with their approximate costs:
Decking
When considering decking options for a 16′ x 32′ pool, the choice between wood and composite materials entails significant cost variations. Traditional wood decking, priced at $10-$15 per square foot, would require an investment ranging from $5,000 to $7,500 for approximately 500 square feet of decking space. On the other hand, composite, PVC, or plastic decking, priced at $20-$30 per square foot, would require a higher budget of $10,000-$15,000 for the same area.
Fencing
In planning for a fence around a 16′ x 32′ pool, the choice between aluminum and glass materials carries substantial cost implications. An aluminum pool fence, priced between $25 and $40 per linear foot, would require an investment ranging from $3,200 to $5,120 for approximately 128 linear feet of fencing. On the other hand, selecting a glass pool fence, with costs ranging from $50 to $100 per linear foot, would demand a higher budget of $6,400 to $12,800 for the same length. This cost differential reflects factors such as material durability, aesthetic appeal, and maintenance requirements.
Lighting
LED pool lighting can significantly enhance the ambiance and safety of your kayak pool area, but it often comes with a considerable price tag. Typically ranging from $300 to $1000 per light, outfitting a standard 16′ x 32′ pool with full illumination can cost anywhere from $1,200 to $8,000. The number of lights required for optimal coverage generally falls within the range of 4 to 8, depending on the size and shape of the pool.
Heaters
When it comes to heating options for your kayak pool, both electric and gas heaters offer effective solutions with varying costs. An electric heater, typically priced between $2,000 and $5,000 for installation, provides a reliable heating source that can efficiently warm the pool water. On the other hand, a gas heater, with installation costs ranging from $3,000 to $7,000, offers a faster heating option that is particularly effective for larger pools or areas with colder climates.
Additional Pumps & Filters
For additional pumps and filter systems for pools, the cost can vary depending on the specific requirements and the quality of the equipment. Typically, these systems range in price from $500 to $2,000 per unit, offering a wide selection to accommodate different pool sizes and filtration needs. Investing in additional pumps and filters is essential for maintaining optimal water quality and circulation, ensuring a clean and safe swimming environment.
So upgrading a basic kayak pool with features like decking, fencing, lighting, heating, and accessories can easily double or triple the base price of the pool kit alone. Carefully consider which features are essential versus nice-to-have additions.
Total Cost Breakdown
Installing a 16×32 inground kayak pool is a significant investment, but the total cost can vary greatly depending on the options and features you choose. Here’s a summary of the expected costs:
Pool Kit: $3,000 to $7,000: The basic 16×32 pool kit including vinyl liner, braces, plumbing parts can range from economy to premium grade options.
Additional Materials: $1,000 to $3,000: Decking, fencing, landscape upgrades, and other materials around the pool area add to costs quickly.
Excavation & Site Prep: $4,000 to $9,000: The size and complexity of your yard will determine equipment rentals needs for removal of topsoil and leveling the area.
Permits & inspections: $500 to $1,500: Most areas require building permits and electrical/plumbing inspections for a pool.
Professional Installation: $4,000 to $12,000: Hiring a pool contractor for drainage, utilities, and equipment is highly recommended. DIY can save on labor but risks mistakes.
Ongoing Maintenance: $1,500+ per year: Chemicals, water, electricity, cleaning tools, and repairs are necessary for maintenance.
Additional Features: Costs rise with upgrades like saltwater systems, heating, automatic covers, water features and more.
The total for a basic 16×32 kayak pool could range from $15,000 to $30,000+, with higher-end installations reaching $50,000 or more. The key is setting a realistic budget and identifying must-have features versus nice-to-haves. With proper planning, you can get an enjoyable family pool at the level you can afford.
Conclusion
Installing a 16 x 32 kayak pool in your backyard can be an exciting project, but requires careful budgeting as the total costs add up. Key factors to keep in mind are the base price of the pool kit, additional construction materials needed for the project, potential permitting fees, and professional installation if you don’t take on the project yourself. While the upfront price tag may seem high, having your own backyard pool provides years of enjoyment, exercise, family bonding, and added value to your property.
Carefully calculating your total budget and considering cost-saving steps like DIY installation allows you to get the most value for your investment. Though not an inexpensive project, installing an in-ground pool is a major upgrade that makes your outdoor living space more enjoyable. With proper planning, you can build the kayak pool of your dreams within a set budget that works for your finances. Keep potential long-term benefits in mind when weighing upfront costs. With routine care and maintenance, your kayak pool will provide fun memories for years to come.
FAQs
Are There Different Installation Options Available For A 16×32 Kayak Pool?
Yes, there are different installation options for a 16×32 kayak pool, such as DIY installation kits, professional installation services, and hybrid options where some parts are self-installed while others are done by professionals.
Can I Opt For Specific Materials Like Fiberglass For My 16×32 Kayak Pool?
Most kayak pools offer aluminum walls, but some may provide customization options for materials like fiberglass or vinyl. Additional charges may apply for premium material choices. Additionally, many kayak pools offer a variety of sizes and shapes to choose from, allowing customers to find the perfect fit for their backyard space. Features such as built-in benches, stairs, and lighting may also be available as add-ons for an extra cost.
Do The 16×32 Kayak Pools Come With A Warranty?
Yes, most 16×32 kayak pools come with a warranty. The duration and coverage of the warranty can vary, so it’s essential to check with the manufacturer about the specific terms and conditions.
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