You’ve finally made the decision to install a pool in your backyard, but now you’re left with one big question: What size should your on-ground pool be?
Choosing incorrectly can leave you with a pool that takes up far more space than you intended or, on the flip side, one that feels too small for your swimming preferences. With so many pool sizes and configurations available today, it can feel overwhelming to narrow down the right fit. Fortunately, our professionals are here to help you understand how to select a pool size that perfectly complements your home and lifestyle.
Below, we break down the key factors you should consider before settling on the ideal size for your above-ground pool.
Evaluate Your Backyard Space
Before anything else, take a close look at the size, layout, and usable area of your yard. A pool should enhance your outdoor living space and not overwhelm it.
Measure Carefully
Start by measuring the total area where you plan to install the pool. Remember to factor in fencing requirements, access paths, landscaping, and room for poolside furniture. Even if a larger pool technically fits, you want to maintain a comfortable flow throughout your yard.
Consider the Shape & Terrain of Your Yard
A rectangular pool may work beautifully in a wide-open yard, while an oval or round design might be more fitting for narrow or uniquely shaped spaces.
Sloped terrain, trees, and existing hardscaping may also influence which pool sizes and shapes are feasible.
Think About How You Plan to Use Your Pool
Your lifestyle plays a huge role in determining the best pool size. So, make sure you consider how you plan to use the pool when evaluating sizes with your on-ground pool installer:
- Swimming & Fitness: If you want to do daily laps or aquatic workouts, you’ll want a pool with enough length to move comfortably.
- Family Recreation: For families with children, a mid-size pool often strikes the perfect balance, as it is spacious enough for games and floating, but not so large that supervision becomes difficult.
- Entertaining Guests: Do you expect to host pool parties, backyard barbecues, or neighborhood gatherings? A larger pool may be worth the investment to accommodate more swimmers at once.
- Relaxation: If relaxation is your main goal, a smaller pool may deliver everything you need. Many homeowners find that a modest-sized on-ground pool paired with a great deck layout feels luxurious without sacrificing valuable backyard space, and this is exactly what a Gibraltar Pool™ offers!
Consider Your Budget
A bigger pool typically means a bigger investment, not only upfront but long-term. For example, larger pools require more materials and more labor. It also calls for more water, and more water means higher heating costs, more chemicals, and more time spent cleaning. Therefore, choosing a size that fits your lifestyle rather than simply opting for the largest available can save money year after year.
Factor in Local Regulations & Property Lines
Before committing to a size, check your local zoning regulations. Many towns and cities in New England have specific guidelines regarding setback requirements, pool fencing, easements, and distance from property lines and structures. So, while you may have plenty of space, legal requirements could limit your pool’s footprint. This is one of the reasons why a professional backyard evaluation is incredibly valuable.
Choose a Shape That Maximizes Your Space
Your pool’s shape can dramatically influence how big or small it feels.
- Round pools fit beautifully in compact yards and can create a cozy gathering space.
- Oval pools offer more room for swimming laps or family recreation.
- Rectangular pools maximize length and often feel more spacious, especially for fitness use.
Create the Perfect On-Ground Pool With Gibraltar Pools
Selecting the right size pool doesn’t have to be overwhelming, and you don’t have to make the decision alone. At Gibraltar Pools, we specialize in custom on-ground pools throughout the New England area and have a wide choice of swimming pool sizes, shapes, and configurations to suit nearly any backyard.
To help you fully understand your options, we offer a no-obligation, free backyard survey, where our experts will evaluate your space, discuss your preferences, and recommend the ideal pool for your lifestyle and property layout. Once you’re ready, we’ll bring your above-ground or semi-inground pool to life with high-quality materials and expert craftsmanship you’ll enjoy for years to come.
If you’re a homeowner in Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Vermont, Connecticut, or Rhode Island and are thinking about installing a pool, contact Gibraltar Pools today! We’ll help you choose the perfect pool size and configuration for your backyard.
