Average Cost to Build a Lap Pool

Lap Pool Costs Installed

The average cost to install an in-ground, 40x8x4 foot lap pool averages about $45,000. Remember to keep in mind that the initial price of installation is only part of the ultimate total. The cost to run, maintain, and repair your pool can be significantly higher than the initial payment.

Average Labor Cost to Build a Lap Pool

Labor costs to build a lap pool are the same as the labor rate for traditional models, or about $5.50 per square foot. For an average 40x8x4 unit, this would be about $3,800. The more complex the project, the higher the labor charge. Things that can increase this total include:

• Complications in excavation: like removing large vegetation or other obstructions.
• Elaborate tile surfacing
• Adding special features like a mirror-style infinity pool or zero-entry access.

Installation should take about one month for vinyl, 6 to 8 weeks for fiberglass or 3 to 5 months for concrete assuming you have not excavated land.

Lap Pool Design Costs

*For an average 700 square foot model, including labor

In-Ground Lap Pool Costs

In-ground lap pools average about $50,000, installed. This is for an average 8 foot by 40 foot, and 4-foot-deep structure. Prices can vary depending on the material used.

Above-Ground Lap Pool Costs

Above-ground models typically run about $6,000 with labor included. This amount is for a vinyl model, which you could assemble yourself to lower the price to a few thousand dollars. Resin and fiberglass options are also available for around $3,000, not including labor. These are restricted in length to about 45 feet max. While most units are oval shaped, there are a few rectangular models available.

Residential, Indoor Lap Pool Costs

The cost of an indoor lap pool is on average, $50,000 for in-ground and $6,000 for above-ground. This is the same as an outdoor model, aside from a few added expenses. Because most people have limited space indoors, an above-ground, endless-style model is most common starting at about $10,000 to $15,000.

Added expenses include:

• Dehumidifier system: $200-$5,000+
• Building permit charges: $500-$1,000 (more if making structural changes)

Small Lap Pool Cost vs. 25m Pool

Below are the sizes and average costs of in-ground pools:

• Olympic, 50 meter “long-course”: 164 feet at $300,000 to $500,000
• 25 meter “short-course”: 82 feet, at $100,000 to $400,000
• Small residential: 40 feet, at $50,000

A small model should give you enough space to get a good stroke going and not have to make too many turns.

The more space you have, the longer you can make your pool, and the nicer it will be to swim in. The 25-meter carries a large price tag at $100,000. That’s approximately double the cost of the small version.

Infinity Lap Pool

The cost of installing an in-ground infinity lap pool runs around $79,000. Totals include labor, which runs around $1,550 to $2,500. An above-ground version is less expensive, running between $1,700 and $6,000. Build time is about 12 weeks for an in-ground model and around one week for above-ground.

There are three types including:

• Infinity: One edge “disappears” making it look like the water extends forever in certain conditions
• Mirror: All edges disappear into the ground, and the deck sits directly next to the edge
• Endless Infinity: Has both an infinity edge and an endless/stationary system installed

The real financial burden here is the cost to run and maintain it, which is higher than a traditional pool. Because the water is continuously running, electricity bills are high. Evaporation also increases water and chemical usage.

Saltwater Lap Pool

The cost of installing a saltwater pool includes the price of the pool plus the saltwater-chlorine generator which runs about $500 to $2,500. Overall, you will spend less on chlorine and maintenance, as these systems tend to keep surfaces cleaner, longer.

Some parts such as vinyl lining, stone coping, steel ladders, and O-rings could corrode if used in saltwater. Talk to your pro if you’re considering this alternative.

Endless Lap Pool

Endless lap pools (or “stationary lap pools”) are a good alternative to a full-length model and start at about $24,000. There are many options, but typically they are 9 by 14 feet.

• lower energy and utility bills
• less water and chemical usage, so more environmentally friendly
• space saving
• require less maintenance
• easily built indoors

DIY vs. Hiring a Pool Installation Contractor

Having a pro install a lap pool can range from $6,000 to over $100,000, depending on the model and location you choose. Labor itself is a significant portion of the total, mainly for in-ground installs, at almost $40,000 for the whole project.

While an exceptionally skilled homeowner (and several friends) could complete the work themselves, we recommend that you leave it to a seasoned contractor. Above-ground models are much easier to install because they do not require specialized skills or tools. You could end up spending as little as $3,000 for a vinyl, above-ground pool if you have the expertise to finish the work safely and accurately. Still, even this is a job for only a highly skilled homeowner.

FAQs

What are the benefits of installing a home lap pool?

The major benefit of a home lap pool is the convenience of exercise and not having to travel somewhere to swim. A smaller version is especially beneficial compared to a normal-sized pool, because it uses less:

• space
• water
• energy
• installation and maintenance fees

How much space in your backyard do you need for a lap pool?

The space needed for a lap pool depends on the type you install.

• Traditional: 50 by 10 feet (40 by 8 feet pool with room for decking)
• Stationary/Endless: 8 by 15 feet

How do I maintain my pool?

How you maintain your pool depends on the type and system you install. Outdoor, larger models will require more maintenance and chemical input than a smaller, indoor system. Things you will need to maintain include:

• Water levels: Change with evaporation and excessive rain
• Chemical levels: Chlorine and salt, depending on your system type
• Waterline tile: Regular cleaning will prevent permanent staining and replacement needs
• Skimmer: You will need to empty this when leaves and other items get stuck.
• Pool vacuum/Chlorination system: Reduce regular maintenance, but will need repair if they break
• Surface: Check with the manufacturer on how to best clean your specific surface material.