Splash into Summer with These Small Backyard Pool Ideas on a Budget

Is there anything more alluring on a hot summer day than lounging poolside and taking a refreshing dip in cool water? For many homeowners, installing a backyard pool is the ultimate dream. But between excavation costs, landscaping, and installation, traditional in-ground pools require a hefty investment that simply isn't feasible for most budgets.

Luckily, there are plenty of ways to get a backyard pool without breaking the bank! With creativity and strategic planning, you can transform your small outdoor space into a summer oasis, even on a tight budget.

Above-Ground Pool Options

When working with a limited budget, above-ground pools offer the most cost-effective solution for bringing summer fun to your backyard. Let's look at some of the most budget-friendly above-ground pool styles:

Wall-Mounted Pools

Wall-mounted pools are designed to be installed along the perimeter of an existing wall or fence. This saves space since the pool occupies only a narrow footprint. Installation is also simple - the pool attaches directly to the wall. Wall-mounted pools are available in a range of lengths to suit the dimensions of any small backyard.

The downside is that you only have access to the pool from three sides due to the wall. But for smaller yards, the space-saving design of wall-mounted pools is a big plus. Expect to invest around $3,000 to $6,000 for materials, delivery, and installation.

Raised Above-Ground Pools

The most common and affordable above-ground pool option is the traditional raised steel-walled design. These pools come in a variety of round and oval shapes, allowing you to choose the right proportions for your yard.

Smaller, more compact sizes starting from 12-15 feet across are ideal for fitting into tiny backyards. Just note that the smaller the pool, the less room there is for multiple swimmers. Prices often start around $1,500 for a basic 15-foot round pool and installation can add another $1,000 - $2,000.

Inflatable Pools

Inflatable pools offer an ultra-portable and wallet-friendly way to bring summertime fun to small outdoor spaces. Available in a range of sizes, inflatable pools are easy to set up and take down. Just be sure to locate it on a completely flat surface.

Maintenance is minimal, but inflatable pools are susceptible to punctures. Prices start at $50 for small, kid-sized models and around $200 for larger 8-10 foot family-sized pools.

Stock Tank or Straw Bale Pools

Want to get really creative? You can easily DIY a backyard pool using a galvanized steel stock tank or even straw bales! Stock tanks are readily available at farm supply stores; choose at least a 6-foot diameter tank for swimming purposes. After leveling the ground, simply place the tank and start filling.

For under $150 in supplies, you can create a straw bale pool by lining up bales in the desired shape and connecting them with fencing to hold the structure. Then add a plastic pond liner over the inside.

Elevate Your Pool on a Budget

With the right touches, you can elevate a basic above-ground pool and make it look like a luxurious backyard oasis. Here are some budget-friendly ways to upgrade your poolscape:

Building a Deck

One of the easiest ways to add value and create a multifunctional space is to build a pool deck. Wood, composite boards, or pavers make attractive decking materials. Keep it simple with a rectangular shape that surrounds the pool.

Mark the area, dig shallow trenches around the perimeter, and fill with gravel for drainage. Level the gravel and start laying deck boards, using non-slip outdoor wood screws. You can likely build a basic 400 square foot deck for less than $2,000 in materials depending on the decking choice.

Partial In-Ground Installation

Did you know you can partially bury many above-ground pool models? This technique makes the pool appear flush with the ground for a seamless, luxurious look. The pool must be designed for this purpose with reinforced walls to withstand soil pressure.

After marking the space, dig a hole approximately 3 feet deep with sloped sides. Lower the pool into the recessed area and level it. Backfill the outer sides with dirt. Partially burying the pool raises site preparation costs, but enhances the pool's appearance and functionality.

Decorative Touches

Details like poolside lighting, decorative privacy screens, murals, and bold colors further enhance the look and enjoyment of your backyard pool. Paint the pool interior a deep hue like blue for serious style points. Hang removal poolside curtains for added privacy and flair.

Solar pathway lights installed along the pool deck create a welcoming glow during summer soirees. And nothing beats swimming under a sea of twinkling string lights. These creative DIY touches dress up your pool on a budget.

Maintaining Pools on a Budget

Once you've got your pool installed, keeping maintenance costs low is essential. Here are some budget-friendly tips for pool upkeep:

DIY Maintenance Tips

From cleaning to general upkeep, much of basic pool maintenance can be handled DIY-style. Invest in a good pool skimmer and vacuum to handle debris removal. Test water chemistry regularly and add chemicals like chlorine as needed.

Practice conservation - use a pool cover when not in use to retain heat and avoid evaporation. Keep a diligent cleaning regimen to prevent more costly repairs down the road.

Save on Chemical Costs

Sanitizing and balancing your pool water usually requires chemicals like liquid chlorine which can get pricey quick. You can slash chemical costs through options like saltwater chlorination, which uses up to 50% less chemicals than traditional methods.

Or consider installing a natural swimming pool using plants, rocks, and microorganisms for filtration instead of chemicals. While the initial installation cost is higher, you'll save over time by not buying chemicals.

And always buy chemicals in bulk at big box stores instead of small quantities at convenience stores. Buying in bulk saves up to 30% on average.

Transforming Small Backyards

While limited square footage can make installing a pool challenging, with thoughtful design, even the most pint-sized backyard can be transformed into a private oasis. Here are some tips for maximizing space:

• Utilize vertical gardening elements like tall plants, vines, and trellises to create privacy and make the area feel enclosed.
• Incorporate multi-functional structures like pergolas to provide shade over a seating area.
• Strategically place the pool to maximize remaining yard space. Having the open side of the pool facing the house often works best.
• Build up hardscaping and use graduated plantings to create the illusion of a larger area.

No backyard is too small to reap the benefits of a swimming pool with smart planning and a few DIY upgrades. Even on a tight budget, you can create a private backyard oasis perfect for making lifelong summer memories.

As you can see, installing an affordable pool in your small backyard is entirely achievable if you're willing to get creative. The options covered range from simple stock tank pools for a few hundred dollars to more sophisticated raised above-ground pools starting around $1,500.

Maximize your budget by taking on installations DIY-style and sourcing materials at discount retailers. Use decking, landscaping, lighting, and partial in-ground installation to elevate basic pools to a luxurious backyard escape. And keep costs low long-term through diligent maintenance and money-saving chemical options.

This summer, stop dreaming of poolside fun and start swimming! With the right small backyard pool design, you can plunge into your own oasis in no time. Don't let budget constraints hold you back from creating a beautiful backyard paradise filled with memories in the making.