Georgia Homeowners Face Rising Pool Construction Costs as Material Prices Surge in 2024
Georgia homeowners considering a backyard pool installation in 2024 are encountering a significantly different cost landscape than in previous years. Material costs for concrete, steel, and plastics directly impact pool construction costs, and the majority of pool builders have had to increase prices by 40-50% in order to keep up with inflation. Understanding these cost increases is crucial for making informed decisions about your pool investment.
Current Pool Construction Costs in Georgia
Atlanta homeowners typically pay around $74,546 for an in-ground swimming pool, with costs ranging between $53,865 and $98,360. However, these figures represent just the beginning of the pricing spectrum. The price range for a concrete inground pool starts at around $70,000 and can exceed $200,000, depending on size, materials, and customization features.
For homeowners in Douglas County and surrounding areas, inground pool installation cost ranges from $20,000 to $195,000, with the national average being $35,000. The wide range reflects varying pool sizes, materials, and complexity of installation requirements.
Material Price Increases Driving Up Costs
The construction industry has experienced unprecedented material price inflation. From January 2020 to July 2022, steel prices rose by 123% and lumber by 111%, reflecting a drastic deviation from historical trends. While some materials have stabilized, challenges persist into 2024.
Steel prices have surged nearly 20% in just the past two years, particularly impacting pool construction since steel is essential for reinforcement and structural frameworks. Concrete prices are projected to rise modestly in 2025, with a 1.2% increase year-to-date, driven by higher cement and aggregate costs and ongoing transportation bottlenecks.
Construction input prices have increased every month of 2024 so far, with both overall and nonresidential construction costs remaining 2.3% and 2.2% higher, respectively, than a year ago. This trend directly affects pool construction budgets across Georgia.
Georgia-Specific Construction Challenges
Georgia presents unique construction challenges that can impact pool costs. Georgia’s distinctive red clay soil makes pool construction challenging, requiring contractors to use specialized equipment to handle the complex excavation, which adds to your overall costs. Site preparation can cost slightly more than in other areas because of the clay soil in Atlanta.
Additionally, building on sloped yards requires extra work, and you might need retaining walls that can cost $500 to $8,000, while rocky soil makes the project even more expensive because it needs special excavation equipment.
Pool Material Options and Their 2024 Costs
Georgia homeowners have three primary material options, each with distinct cost implications:
- Concrete Pools: Concrete pools range from $95,000 to $225,000, offering maximum customization but requiring the highest upfront investment and maintenance costs.
- Vinyl Liner Pools: Vinyl liner pools cost between $75,000 and $100,000+, providing a more budget-friendly option with lower initial costs.
- Fiberglass Pools: Savannah’s inground fiberglass pools start at $60,000, and complete projects can run from $85,000 to $200,000, offering a balance between cost and maintenance requirements.
Long-Term Cost Considerations
While initial installation costs are significant, long-term maintenance expenses vary dramatically by material choice. Fiberglass pools need minimal maintenance at about $15,000 over ten years, compared to concrete pools that require $26,400 in maintenance during the same timeframe.
Working with Local Experts
For homeowners considering pool construction Douglas County, GA, working with experienced local contractors becomes even more critical in today’s challenging cost environment. Deep Waters Pools specializes in designing and constructing custom in-ground cement pools, luxurious spas, and stunning patios, with their skilled team dedicated to delivering exceptional quality and craftsmanship tailored to your vision, offering competitive pricing and a commitment to customer satisfaction.
Deep Waters Pools was built on over 30 years of hands-on pool construction experience, and after decades of working in concrete, plumbing, and custom pool builds, they decided to start their own company focused on quality, honesty, and personalized service, growing into a trusted local business that designs and builds strong, beautiful in-ground pools for families across South Georgia.
Planning Your 2024 Pool Investment
Given the current cost environment, Georgia homeowners should budget carefully and obtain multiple detailed quotes. While some trends may indicate potential price reductions due to improved supply chains and technological advancements, other factors like inflation and labor costs could exert upward pressure on prices.
Consumers who plan on buying a swimming pool this year can expect to pay a premium according to analysts, as builders across the nation are feeling the pinch of rising costs. However, if you add an in-ground pool, you can expect your property value to rise by around 7% in Georgia, helping offset some of the investment.
The key to navigating 2024’s challenging pool construction market is working with experienced local contractors who understand both Georgia’s unique soil conditions and the current material cost environment. By planning carefully and choosing the right materials and contractor for your specific situation, you can still achieve your dream pool while managing costs effectively in this inflationary period.