There is no doubt that plunge pools are a popular choice for many Australian homes. If you have underutilised outdoor space, transforming it into an oasis complete with a plunge pool can create the perfect family area or a quiet retreat. However, before installing a plunge pool, there are many considerations, such as the size, style and colour. Then there is excavation, access and landscaping. All of which adds up very quickly. So, before diving in, take inspiration from the following examples and see if a plunge pool is right for you.
What is a plunge pool?
Plunge pools are small pools designed more for relaxing than swimming for exercise. Generally, plunge pools range from 2 – 7 metres long and 2 – 3.5 metres wide. The small design also means the pool is usually shallower compared to standard size pools. As mentioned above, these small pools are great for relaxing, and therefore quite often have wide bench seats, perfect for cooling off on hot summer days and nights. The small nature of a plunge pool makes them perfect for small backyards, courtyards or even small front yards! The small plunge pool size also means less water to fill the pool and fewer chemicals and overall maintenance than a standard-sized pool. It’s a win-win.
Plunge pool design
When choosing the perfect plunge pool, various styles, shapes, sizes, and colours are available. However, most plunge pools are either square or rectangle. Although, a custom pool will allow a lot more freedom for your final pool shape. A round pool could also give your outdoor space some much needed wow factor. Regardless of the shape or size you choose, most options are either made from concrete or fibreglass.
Pros and cons of concrete:
- Concrete plunge pools are typically made from scratch, giving more design freedom and customisation options.
- However, there is a premade concrete option, the Plungie pool. This option features on The Block in Tanya and Vito and Mitch and Mark’s backyards.
- A concrete pool made from scratch won’t require a crane to lift the pool shell into place.
- Concrete pools are often more expensive and have a longer installation time.
- A concrete plunge pool may require ongoing maintenance.
Pros and cons of fibreglass:
- Fibreglass plunge pools are pre-cut ready to install, resulting in a much faster installation time.
- There is less maintenance and upkeep for fibreglass pools.
- Fibreglass pools can cost less than concrete pools.
- Pre-cut fibreglass pools mean less flexibility over concrete pools that you can build to fit the space available.
- You will require a crane to lift the pool into place and site access for the crane.
See more of this stunning pool and black VogueWall
Design features
When choosing your plunge pool, consider all options and functionality. Will you need:
- Integrating lighting
- Spa jets
- Swim jet
- Water features/waterfall
- Slides
- Pool cover
- Heating system
- Cleaning system
Then what will you choose to surround your plunge pool?
- A combination of materials
- Concrete
- Grass — real or fake
- Garden
- Stone
- Tiles
- Timber deck
See more of Andrew Winter’s backyard makeover
Plunge Pool Costs
As the cost of installing a plunge pool can range anywhere from $20,000 to $50,000, depending on your choices, ensure you employ a qualified builder or pool builder with all the necessary licences and insurance. As with any significant project, the costs can quickly add up. So, it’s important to factor in all steps to gain a true sense of how much installing a plunge pool will cost. Consider:
- Site preparation and excavation costs
- Crane hire if applicable
- Building/pool approvals – certifications
- The size of the pool and any additional add-ons/customisations
- Pool installation
- Electrician
- Plumber
- Backfilling
- Pool fence
- Landscaping
- Outdoor furniture
- Ongoing maintenance and cleaning
Compliance and approvals
As with cost considerations, there are many other factors to consider before going ahead with your plunge pool. For example, did you know in most states and territories, pools need to be registered? Read more on pool compliance in our blog, ‘Three easy steps to pool safety and compliance this summer.‘
ModularWalls make a fantastic backdrop to any plunge pool
As can be seen in our case studies, many happy customers opt for a Modular Wall as the backdrop to their pool. ModularWalls offers a modern aesthetic that matches a range of styles, including tiles or stone cladding! Plus, ModularWalls modular lightweight design means they are perfect for tight spaces. Another critical factor to consider when building your new outdoor space and pool is privacy and noise reduction, and ModularWalls can help with both.
See more of this backyard family oasis
All in all, if you are in the market for a plunge pool, do your research. First, gain a good understanding of your needs and your total budget. Then ask three pool providers for a detailed quote before making a final decision. Such a big investment is worth taking the time to plan carefully. Then all you need to do is relax and enjoy your new plunge pool.
