The Cost of Luxury: How Much Does a Custom Pool Cost in Northern Virginia?

Custom gunite pools—a symbol of luxury and personalization, offer a world where each design is as unique as the home it complements. At Deckscapes of Virginia, we specialize in crafting these aquatic masterpieces, elevating outdoor spaces into personal paradises that beckon for relaxation and entertainment. This blog dives into the intricate dance of designing and installing a custom gunite pool, from the initial considerations of pool types to the final touches that define its luxury. Whether you dream of serene waters to soothe the day’s stress or an enchanting oasis for hosting gatherings under the stars, understanding the cost, customization, and value of a gunite pool is the first step towards bringing your vision to life.

Types of Pools 

As homeowners consider their pool options, understanding the pros and cons of each type is crucial. Here’s a brief overview.

Fiberglass Pools

Vinyl Pools

Pros: Lower initial cost, customizable shape, and size.
Cons: Liners can be easily damaged, requiring replacement every 5 to 9 years, which adds to long-term costs.

Gunite Pools

Pros: Highly customizable in shape, size, and design, durable and long-lasting.
Cons: Higher initial cost and longer installation time.

Given the drawbacks of fiberglass and vinyl pools, Deckscapes has chosen to specialize in gunite pools. This decision is rooted in our commitment to delivering the highest level of customization and quality. 

The Cost of Gunite Pools

The journey to installing a custom gunite pool in your backyard begins with understanding the investment involved. Starting at around $80K, this baseline price, while significant, merely opens the door to the myriad customization options that gunite pools offer. It's the details and personal touches that truly define the final cost of your pool in Northern Virginia. 

Customization and Its Impact on Cost

Gunite pools are celebrated for their versatility, allowing for an array of personalized features that can transform a simple pool into a luxurious retreat. However, each addition, from aesthetic enhancements to functional upgrades, contributes to the overall cost.

• Elevated Walls and Diving Boards: Adding dimension and fun to your pool, these features can significantly increase the project's complexity and price.
• Water Features and Integrated Spas: For those seeking the soothing sound of water or the relaxation of a spa, these elements offer enjoyment but also add to the cost.
• Automatic Covers: Enhancing safety and preserving your pristine pool comes with a price but offers unparalleled convenience and peace of mind.  
• Fire Bowls: Fire bowls offer unmatched drama and aesthetic appeal.
• Upgraded Materials: Choosing high-end plaster finishes and tile options can dramatically affect the appearance and longevity of your pool, as well as its cost. The price of tiles and plaster can vary greatly, potentially doubling entry level costs depending on the selections made.
• Equipment Options: Modern pools can include automation, salt systems for easier maintenance, and heaters to extend the swimming season, each adding to the final tally.

Material Choices and Their Costs

Selecting the right materials for your gunite pool not only influences its aesthetic appeal but also plays a significant role in determining the project's overall cost. Deckscapes of Virginia emphasizes choosing materials that align with your vision and budget.

• Plaster Finishes: Plaster can range from basic options to more luxurious aggregates that include pebbles or glass beads, significantly impacting the pool's look and cost.
• Tile Options: Tile choices can dramatically vary in price, with standard ceramic tiles at the lower end and custom, hand-painted, or glass tiles at the higher end. 

Additional Equipment and Considerations

Beyond the pool itself, several additional equipment options and considerations can influence the total investment in your luxury pool project:

• Automation: The convenience of push-button controls for water features, lighting, and pool maintenance systems adds a layer of sophistication and ease, impacting the cost.
• Salt Systems: Saltwater chlorination systems offer a more natural and gentle alternative to traditional chlorine, providing comfort and reduced maintenance at an additional cost.
• Heaters: Installing a heater can extend the usability of your pool into the cooler months, ensuring a year-round outdoor retreat but also adding to the project's expense.

The Pool is Rarely the Whole Project

The environment surrounding the pool plays a pivotal role in the cost of the overall project. Deckscapes of Virginia understands that a pool is rarely just a pool; it's part of a larger outdoor living space that might include patios, decks, covered structures, and landscaping. While these elements are outside the pool's direct costs, they are integral to the project's success, enhancing the beauty and functionality of your outdoor oasis. This holistic approach to pool design ensures that every aspect of your outdoor living space is considered, from the initial pool design to the final touches that make your backyard truly unique.

Is a Gunite Pool Worth it?

Investing in a gunite pool is not just about adding a swimming pool to your property; it's about creating a central feature that enhances your home's value and quality of life. Here's why a gunite pool from Deckscapes of Virginia is worth the investment.

Customization and Aesthetics: Unlike other types of pools, gunite pools offer unparalleled customization options. This means your pool can be tailored to fit the unique contours of your property and designed to complement your home's architecture, creating a cohesive and aesthetically pleasing outdoor environment.

Durability and Longevity: Gunite pools are renowned for their durability and longevity. Constructed with a framework of steel rebar coated in a mixture of concrete and sand, gunite pools are built to last, making them a wise investment for the long term.

Increased Home Value: A well-designed gunite pool can significantly increase your home's market value. Potential buyers often view custom gunite pools as a desirable luxury feature, potentially making your property more attractive in the competitive local real estate market.

Deckscapes Builds Your Perfect Pool