Pools for Small Yards: Tips for Building a Your Backyard Oasis (2024)

FAQs

Pools for Small Yards: Tips for Building a Your Backyard Oasis? ›

Maximize All of the Space You Have

The round or circular pool design is perfect for hiding off to the side or making it into a beautifully fitting focal point for the smaller backyard. Complete the look with some rustic stone pavers and enclose the area with some beautiful foliage to really define or enclose the space without making it feel cramped.

Several common, smaller pool sizes and dimensions can nestle comfortably into a smaller backyard, including 9' x 16', 10' x 20', 12' x 25' or even larger models like a 14' x 48'.

For example, the average small inground pool is about 12 feet wide and 24 feet long. If you already know that your yard is too small for that, an inground pool will likely still be an option (inground pools are often much smaller than 12x24), but your pool builder might need to get creative.

co*cktail pools have lots of upsides: they're ideal for entertaining in small spaces, their smaller footprints make them more affordable than supersized pools, and they're often better for the environment than larger pools.

Choose a Basic Pool Shape

Opting for a rectangular or square pool will help keep costs lower compared to more complex shapes. As you now know, rectangular and square designs are often the cheapest pool shapes. They require fewer materials and less labor, and they offer efficient use of space.

Pool Shape: Rectangular Swimming Pools

Rectangular swimming pools are the easiest of swimming pool types to clean, with oval-shaped pools coming in second place. The reason for this is simple: these pools have smooth edges, so these designs are less likely to entrap and catch dirt and debris.

If you have limited space in your backyard, a co*cktail pool might just be the answer for you. Often referred to as “spools” or “plunge pools,” these smaller pools often combine a spa and a pool and may even include jets, a heater, and benches.

The ideal depth of your pool depends on its intended use. For a recreational pool, 91 to 152 centimeters (3 to 5 feet) is ideal, 91 to 183 centimeters (3 to 6 feet) for active swimming and water sports, and 76 to 107 centimeters (2.5 to 3.5 feet) to ensure a safe area for children.

How small is too small for a pool? Any swimming pool smaller than 12 by 14 feet will probably be too small for swimming, playing, and exercising.

Is it worth having a small pool? ›

Less Landscaping or Upkeep Required

When it's time to clean your pool, you'll be glad that it's relatively small. A smaller pool takes less time to drain than a large one, and, with less surface area, cleaning will be faster too. Small pools have less water, which means they require less chemicals.

A 12' x 24' foot above ground pool will comfortably fit 4-5 average size adults to swim, float and play. There are approximately 6,800 gallons in a 52" above ground pool and requires approximately 2 cubic yards of sifted(playground) sand to create a 2" layer under the liner and create a sand cove.

For a family of 1-2 people, we recommend a minimum pool size of 14 x 25ft. For a family of 3-5 people, we recommend a minimum pool size of 16 x 32ft. For a family of 6-8 people, we recommend a minimum pool size of 18 x 36ft.

Most likely a “party pool” will have a heater, you want to keep your guests comfortable. Lighting for sure, probably LEDs and maybe some underlip accent or mood lighting. A party pool would likely be outfitted with a few jets, although not as many as you would find in a spa or hot tub.

A spool pool is a small pool with spa-like features, resembling a large hot tub but with powerful directional jets that create a current against which you can swim. A spool pool is often also called a co*cktail pool or plunge pool. A spool pool is half as long as a lap pool, which is designed for full swim laps.

A co*cktail pool is bigger than a hot tub but smaller than a regular pool and just deep enough to submerge a portion of your body underwater. It's a little oasis that fits easily into many urban backyards.

Do you want to be able to dive? Choose a shape, such as a rectangle, lazy 'L' or kidney that can easily include a deep end. If younger children will swim in the pool, consider a regular shape for safety's sake, since irregular curves and hidden corners may make it more difficult to keep track of little swimmers.

Typically, a long, rectangular pool is based for laps since it lets you swim in a straight line. A rounded pool would be better for lounging and for recreational swims. These pools are usually smaller and do not have a straight path for swimming laps.

Rectangular pools are undeniably the most common type of pool. Appearing in assorted styles of backyards, this pool shape maximizes the space in your backyard while allowing plenty of room for swimming laps or playing games. Even better, rectangular pools allow for rapid cleanup and easy maintenance.