Installation & Construction | Swimming Pool Design
Interested in getting your own swimming pool?
You have two options: inground and above ground. But what if you want a little bit of both?
Enter option three, stage right; the semi inground pool.
Semi inground pools are a little bit different in terms of aesthetics and the installation process. In this article, we’ll break down the key factors that set them apart to help you decide if it’s a good fit for you.
What is a Semi Inground Pool?
A semi-inground pool is exactly what it sounds like: a swimming pool that is partially installed in the ground and partially installed above ground. Usually, most of the pool is still inground, but part of it will be raised a few feet or more.
Whether the pool being installed is fiberglass, concrete, or vinyl liner, the installation process and cost will differ depending on the pool type and the materials that you use to build around it.
Some people like to use the raised sides of a semi-inground pool for bar space, water features (like waterfalls or vanishing edges), and multiple pool entry points.
Keep in mind that above-ground pools can be installed semi-inground, but it’s not the same as building an inground pool semi-inground.
What’s the difference?
The vast majority of above-ground pools that can be bought in a kit and assembled in your yard are temporary. While they can be partially or entirely lowered into the ground, they’re not what we know of as inground pools, which are more permanent structures.
Semi inground concrete pool
How Much Does a Semi Inground Pool Cost?
The cost of a semi-inground pool surpasses that of an inground pool due to the added labor and materials needed to construct the supporting walls. These materials, designed for both functionality and aesthetics, come at a premium price to ensure the pool's durability and stability under the weight of thousands of gallons of water.
You can expect your pool walls to cost as much as a retaining wall, which may be anywhere from $7,000-$20,000+ depending on the size, shape, and amount of the necessary materials used. Here's a rule to remember as you research semi-inground pool designs: the bigger the pool and the higher the walls, the more you can expect to pay.
Keep in mind that we’re referring to inground pools that are installed semi-inground and not above-ground pool kits that are partially lowered into the ground.
Here’s a ballpark range for how much swimming pools cost before adding the price of the walls. Based on our industry experience and knowledge, we’d say you might expect base package costs to range anywhere from $45,000 to $120,000 depending on the type and size of the pool you choose. You can read more about inground pool packages and their prices here.
What Are the Semi Inground Pool Sizes?
Semi inground pools come in all of the same sizes as traditional inground pools. Your pool size options will typically range from 10x20 feet on the smaller end to 20x40 feet for larger swimming pools.
Want to know how much pools cost by size and type? Read our full guide to learn more about your size and price options.
Semi Inground Pool Installation
Semi Inground Pool vs Inground Pool vs Above ground pool: What’s the Difference?
The only difference between a semi-inground pool and an inground pool is the degree to which the pool is actually in the ground (again, we’re talking concrete, vinyl liner, and fiberglass pools).
A semi-inground pool may be only slightly or almost completely above ground, while an inground pool is almost always installed entirely submerged in the ground. An above-ground pool, on the other hand, is constructed or installed 100% above ground. These pools usually require a deck or some other way to access them.
What Are Some Semi Inground Pool Problems to Watch Out For?
While semi-inground pools aren’t more problematic than regular inground pools by default, they do have more elements that need to be maintained. The walls and any water features or structures built around them will need to be maintained and periodically repaired if necessary to keep the pool in good condition. Remember, the walls support the pool, and they need to be kept in the best shape possible.
While it’s not a major problem, one inconvenience that you may experience with a semi-inground pool is higher water temperature. Inground pools tend to be cooler because they are completely surrounded by earth. A raised semi-inground pool will not benefit you as much, so if you live in an area that has scorching summers, you might want to invest in a pool chiller.
Semi inground pool with stone wall
What Materials Can I Use to Build My Semi Inground Pool?
Aside from the materials that would be used to build your actual swimming pool, your semi inground pool walls can be built using concrete, stone, brick, and even glass (very, very strong glass!). The materials that you choose will affect your final semi inground pool price, so keep this in mind as you sift through your options.
Who Is a Semi Inground Pool a Good Fit For?
People often choose a semi-inground pool installation for its aesthetics alone. They are really nice to look at, and the walls provide a lot of flexibility in terms of customization, function, and style. For example, semi-inground pools are often ideal starting points for an infinity pool design due to the way their raised edges can be built to spill over into a disguised or hidden catchment area surrounding the pool.
Infinity Edge Pool
Important note: The River Pools® brand does not offer infinity edge pools from the factory. You'll need to speak with your independent installer about their ability, or inability, to modify the shell to accommodate this custom feature.
However, a semi-inground pool is sometimes also a good alternative option for certain types of yards, like sloped yards. Such yards would usually require at least one retaining wall, and having a semi-inground pool with walls on at least one side could serve a similar function. You'll want to discuss both options with your installer to gain a full understanding of the difference and cost as it pertains to your backyard.
Rock and groundwater may also provide another reason to opt for a semi-inground pool. Sometimes items like these are discovered once the excavation begins and can present significant installation challenges. The cost to remove large boulders or to mitigate groundwater may prove to be quite high. While it’s not always a guarantee that it will be more affordable, a semi inground pool may be an alternative option in a situation like this.
Can a Fiberglass Pool be Semi Inground?
Yes! As we said before, fiberglass pools can be inground, above ground...heck, they’ve even been installed on a roof. A semi-inground fiberglass pool installation will require a few additional steps in the planning and building process, but it will almost certainly be an option for you if you like the look or if you live on uneven terrain.
If you’d like to learn more about fiberglass semi-inground pool options, speak with an installer about the possibility. They will be the best guide for you in terms of creating the design and helping you understand the true cost of adding necessary wall modifications.
You should be aware that such modifications will require guidance from a professional engineer and extensive additional fiberglass work. River Pools does not offer shell modifications at this time.
Want to know exactly how much a fiberglass pool will cost? Contact us today and we will connect you with an independent installer in your area who can give you pricing. In the meantime, try out our pool pricing calculator below for a fast ballpark cost range:
Want to see about how much that cost will be with all your favorite pool accessories?
Use our Design and Price Tool to walk through your options and approximate price!
If you're still shopping around for the right inground swimming pool, be sure to download our free ebook to get a full in-depth comparison of the three main inground pool types.
FIBERGLASS vs. CONCRETE vs. VINYL LINERS...
which type of pool is right for you?
CLICK HERE TO GET YOUR EBOOK AND FIND OUT!
As always, if you have any questions for us, please leave them in the comments.
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Wooden Decks for Inground Swimming Pools: Cost, Types, and More
Editor's note: This article was originally written by Jason Hughes and was updated on August 2, 2024, with current information. River Pools is a brand of
inground fiberglass pools produced in a manufacturing facility in Fortville, IN. While our expertise is in manufacturing fiberglass pools, we have access to a network of installers with expertise relating to project design, installation, and pool service. We often tap into this knowledge base and share information freely with homeowners, just like you, considering installing a swimming pool in your backyard.