Indoor vs. Outdoor Pools: Which is Best for Your Custom-Built New Home?

When building a custom new home, adding a pool is often one of the most exciting decisions. A pool can serve as a tranquil retreat, a spot for family fun, a great outdoor area for entertaining and most importantly adding extra value to the overall price of your home. 

However, one of the key choices you’ll face is whether to build an indoor or outdoor pool. Each option offers distinct benefits and challenges, from maintenance and aesthetics to year-round usability. 

Consulting with a custom home builder like Prime Building Projects for free is a great way to get professional advice on some of your best options moving forward.

Indoor Pool vs Outdoor Pool?

Here’s a closer look at the factors to consider when choosing between an indoor and outdoor pool for your custom-built home.

1. Climate and Location

The climate of your location is a major factor in deciding between an indoor and outdoor pool. In areas with mild weather or plenty of warm months, an outdoor pool may be an obvious choice, allowing you to enjoy the fresh air and scenery. Outdoor pools thrive in regions with abundant sunshine, where the water can be naturally warmed during the day.

On the other hand, if you live in a place with seasonal weather changes, an indoor pool might be more practical. Indoor pools offer year-round accessibility regardless of temperature or rain, allowing you to swim whenever you want. For cooler climates, an indoor pool may ultimately be more cost-effective since you’ll spend less on heating compared to an outdoor pool that only sees seasonal use.

2. Maintenance and Cleaning

Maintenance is an important consideration for any pool, as it impacts both your time and budget. Generally, outdoor pools require more maintenance due to exposure to the elements. Leaves, dust, and debris accumulate more frequently, requiring regular cleaning and skimming. Outdoor pools also need chemical balancing more often, as sun exposure and rain can affect water chemistry.

Indoor pools, being sheltered from the weather, require less frequent cleaning and may experience fewer fluctuations in water quality. However, indoor pools do require good ventilation to manage humidity levels, as the enclosed space can become humid from the warm water, which may contribute to mould or mildew if not properly ventilated.

3. Privacy and Security

If privacy is a top priority, an indoor pool is an excellent option. Enclosed within your home, an indoor pool offers complete seclusion, free from the gaze of neighbours or passers-by. This setup can be especially appealing if you enjoy a private swim or simply want a quiet escape within your own home.

For outdoor pools, privacy can be managed with strategic landscaping, fences, or screens, though it may not provide the same level of privacy as an indoor pool. Outdoor pools can also pose security concerns, especially if you have young children or pets. Installing secure fencing, alarms, or safety covers is essential to prevent accidental access.

4. Design and Aesthetic Appeal

The choice between an indoor and outdoor pool will greatly influence your home’s aesthetics. Outdoor pools are often designed to integrate with the surrounding landscape, creating a natural flow between the pool and the outdoors. They can be the feature piece of a beautiful garden, surrounded by lush landscaping or stunning hardscaping that enhances the entire backyard space. With today’s modern designs and technology you can truly get really creative with your designs.

Indoor pools, while enclosed, can add a luxurious element to the interior of your home. Custom indoor pools can be built in a conservatory-style room with large windows or skylights to bring in natural light, creating an elegant, spa-like atmosphere. Indoor pools can also be designed with beautiful tiles, lighting, and finishes that make them feel like a high-end retreat within your home. If you are wanting to add a unique feature to your home then this is the way to go.

5. Cost and Budget

Building a pool, whether indoor or outdoor… requires significant investment and thought. Costs can vary based on design, materials, and additional features. 

Indoor Pool Costs

An indoor pool will generally cost upwards of $50,000. Generally, indoor pools tend to be more expensive due to the structural requirements. Building an enclosed space with adequate ventilation, humidity control, and possibly heating adds to the overall cost. The access is usually a lot more limited and requires more specialised machinery seeing costs rise. 

Outdoor Pool Costs

Your standard outdoor pools generally cost from $25,000 – $60,000. However, costs can vary based on design, materials, and additional features. While still an investment, outdoor pools are typically less costly to construct than an indoor pool. However, ongoing expenses for outdoor pools, such as additional heating, maintenance, and cleaning, should be factored into your budget. If you’re looking to keep costs manageable, an outdoor pool may be a better option initially, though it could have seasonal limitations.

6. Seasonal Use and Flexibility

One of the main benefits of an indoor pool is year-round use. If swimming is an essential part of your lifestyle, or if you have family members who would benefit from regular, convenient access, an indoor pool offers flexibility and convenience. You won’t need to wait for warm weather or worry about rain or wind affecting your plans.

Outdoor pools are more seasonal, especially in regions with distinct weather changes. However, if your climate allows, outdoor pools can be designed with heating systems to extend their use into the cooler months. Additionally, retractable enclosures or covers can help bridge the gap between an outdoor and indoor experience, providing a semi-enclosed space when needed.

7. Environmental Considerations

If you’re focused on building an eco-friendly home, it’s worth considering the environmental impact of your pool choice. Outdoor pools are exposed to the environment, which can affect water quality and increase the need for chemicals to maintain balance. Covering your pool when not in use and investing in efficient heating systems can help reduce energy consumption.

Indoor pools require effective ventilation and possibly dehumidifiers to manage the indoor environment, which can add to energy use. However, the water in indoor pools is generally easier to keep at a consistent temperature, which can reduce heating demands compared to an outdoor pool.

8. Value Addition to Your Home

Both indoor and outdoor pools add value to a property, but the added value depends on the preferences of potential buyers and the property’s location. In warmer climates or high-end areas where pools are expected, outdoor pools can enhance the home’s appeal and provide an attractive lifestyle feature.

Indoor pools may be viewed as more exclusive or luxurious, especially if well-designed and integrated with the home’s architecture. They may also appeal to buyers who are keen on year-round swimming or prefer the privacy and comfort of an indoor pool. Ultimately, either option can add significant value, though it’s essential to design the pool in a way that enhances the home’s overall appeal.

Making the final decision…

Choosing between an indoor and outdoor pool comes down to your lifestyle, budget, and long-term goals. If you’re looking for a pool that can be used year-round, offers privacy, and can add an exclusive touch to your home, an indoor pool might be the ideal choice. For those who love the idea of outdoor living and want a pool that blends with the natural landscape, an outdoor pool provides a beautiful, more budget-friendly option.

Whatever you decide, working with a builder experienced in custom pools will help you create a pool that not only suits your needs but also enhances your home’s functionality and style. With the right planning, your pool can be a stunning and valuable addition to your custom-built home, indoors or outdoors.

Booking a free consultation with one of our friendly team members at Prime Building Projects is a great way to get started. If you are interested in building a custom new home with a pool then using a builder that is up to date with all the latest regulations and council permits is highly recommended. The team at Prime Building Projects are here to help you make the best decisions.