Inground Pools: Everything You Need to Know for Your Backyard Oasis

inground pools

Key Takeaways

  • Inground pools boost home value and create a backyard oasis.
  • Types: Concrete (custom, durable, high cost), Fiberglass (low-maintenance, limited shapes), Vinyl (budget-friendly, liner replacement needed).
  • 2025 trends: smart automation, energy-efficient pumps, eco-friendly hybrid pond-pools.
  • Choose based on budget, space, style, climate, and upkeep needs.
  • Maintain with cleaning, filtration, circulation, and modern water treatments.
  • Pro installation ensures safety, quality, and longevity.

There’s an undeniable allure to stepping out into your backyard and being greeted by the shimmering expanse of your own private inground pool, looking like a scene straight out of a lifestyle fantasy! Your personal oasis, glinting in the morning light like a sapphire and beckoning with the promise of indulgence, tranquility, and a very well-deserved moment of self-congratulation.

But beyond the polished aesthetic and envy-inducing Instagram stories, an inground pool is a genuine lifestyle transformation! It becomes the heartbeat of your summer – hosting sun-drenched barbecues, offering a sanctuary where you can float aimlessly with a gripping novel, and creating a rare screen-free zone where even the most tech-obsessed family members reconnect with the real world. And let’s not ignore its value-boosting potential – because nothing whispers “premium property” quite like a beautifully integrated pool!

Of course, the dream of turning one’s backyard into a luxury escape isn’t a novel concept – but in 2025, the execution has become nothing short of revolutionary. Forget the kitschy blue kidney beans of suburban past, because today’s pools are masterclasses in design and sustainability – sleek, sculptural, and effortlessly modern. They’re engineered not just to impress but to endure, boasting eco-conscious systems, cutting-edge automation, and water so pristine it could be mistaken for a CGI rendering…

In this blog, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about inground pools – from the various types available (yes, there’s a whole delicious menu beyond the basic rectangular plunge!) to why they’re an investment that pays for itself in lifestyle and value. And we’ll reveal how visionary innovators like Oásis Biosistema are redefining pool design with nature-integrated systems that are as self-sustaining as they are stunning, so you can have a pool fit for a nature documentary – visually spectacular, gloriously low-maintenance, and smarter than ever!

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What Are Inground Pools? 

Let’s break it down for the uninitiated in the art of backyard opulence. When you stroll into someone’s outdoor space and feel momentarily transported to a boutique resort – sun glinting off calm, shimmering water, sleek stone coping underfoot – you’re likely looking at an inground pool! These pools are built directly into the earth, a feat of engineering and design that transforms a simple backyard into an enduring oasis; the name may lack poetry, but the experience certainly doesn’t.

Now, to draw a firm line in the sand between inground and above-ground pools! Above-ground pools (usually those circular basins perched awkwardly on the lawn) are often constructed from metal frames or inflatable PVC. Functional? Absolutely. Elegant? Not quite. They tend to evoke the charm of an oversized kiddie pool, more synonymous with splashing chaos than serene luxury!

Inground pools, on the other hand, are the real showstoppers; carved into the landscape itself, they offer permanence, presence, and nearly limitless potential for customisation. Whether it’s an infinity edge that blurs into the horizon, mosaic tiling that catches the light like stained glass, or a surrounding terrace designed for sunset cocktails, these pools elevate outdoor living from ordinary to architectural poetry!

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The Three Main Types of Inground Pools (a.k.a. The Holy Trinity of Splash)

Now that you know what makes inground pools so cool, let’s talk about your material options. Each comes with its pros, cons, and overall vibe.

1. Concrete Pools

Concrete pools are the haute couture of the swimming world – meticulously tailored, utterly unique, and built to embody your wildest architectural fantasies. If you’ve dreamed of a pool shaped like a grand piano, a crescent moon, or even a mythical creature mid-flight, concrete is your blank canvas!

Poured and sculpted on-site, these pools are not bound by symmetry or restraint – they are luxurious feats of craftsmanship, capable of withstanding the elements for decades! However, such bespoke beauty comes at a price: the installation process is long and involved, often spanning months, and resurfacing is typically required every 10 to 15 years to keep it looking pristine.

2. Fiberglass Pools

In contrast, fiberglass pools arrive like a polished gem – pre-formed, seamless, and ready to dazzle! Manufactured in a single shell and delicately lowered into a pre-dug cradle of earth, these pools offer a smooth, non-porous surface that naturally resists algae and requires minimal upkeep.

Their graceful contours and glossy finishes are designed for efficiency and elegance, making them ideal for homeowners who crave a quick, clean install without compromising on sophistication; that said, creativity has its limits here! Your design must conform to what can be trucked down a highway, so while sleek and modern is achievable, extravagant flourishes (like a meandering lagoon or custom alcoves) are not.

3. Vinyl Liner Pools

Vinyl liner pools, on the other hand, are the versatile darlings of the budget-conscious set – framed and lined with supple vinyl sheets, these pools can mimic the luxury of pricier counterparts without the sobering expense!

They offer a soft, foot-friendly surface and a generous degree of shape flexibility. But beneath that glistening surface lies a more delicate reality: liners can wrinkle or tear over time and must typically be replaced every 7 to 10 years. Still, for those seeking the charm of an inground escape without the long-term financial commitment, vinyl strikes a compelling balance between form and function!

Piscinas Enterradas

Innovative Pool Designs and Technologies for 2025 (a.k.a. Pools Have Entered Their Sci-Fi Era)

Alright, buckle up – because the backyard pool game has leveled up. It’s 2025, and your pool can now text you (yes, really) and clean itself! Let’s dive (pun fully intended) into the coolest, smartest, most energy-efficient pool tech out there right now.

Smart Pool Systems: Your Pool’s Got a Brain Now

Harnessing the power of automation and real-time diagnostics, systems like iAquaLink, Pentair IntelliCenter, and Hayward OmniLogic give you complete control, whether you’re sunbathing on a lounger or halfway across the world. With a few taps on your device, you can summon a waterfall, balance chlorine levels, or nudge the temperature up a few soothing degrees – because nothing says 21st-century leisure like telling your pool to get its act together from the comfort of your couch!

These systems don’t just make life easier; they enhance the entire aquatic experience, anticipating needs, preventing issues, and adding a distinctly luxurious, Bond-villain flair to your backyard sanctuary!

Head over to our blog all about the latest pool technologies  if you want to learn more (and geek out with us!).

Energy-Efficient Pumps: Saving the Planet One Swim at a Time

The era of thundering, power-hungry pool pumps is (blessedly) over. In their place comes the sleek elegance of variable-speed pumps – machines so whisper-quiet and intelligent, you might forget they’re working at all!

These marvels of engineering adjust their flow with surgical precision, running only as fast as necessary to maintain perfect circulation. The result of this is dramatically lower energy bills and far less environmental impact, all without compromising performance. Many of these models even qualify for generous energy rebates, turning eco-consciousness into a financially savvy decision!

Advanced Water Features: It’s Not Just a Pool, It’s a Show

Your pool is no longer a place to cool off – it’s a stage. And today’s water features are pure theatre.

Imagine an infinity edge that blurs the boundary between pool and horizon, or a series of deck jets that arch like liquid sculpture into the basin below. Think of laminar flows – those glassy, silent streams that catch the light like crystal ribbons – and fire bowls that flicker dramatically beside fountains, turning your night swim into something seriously mythic!

Even LED bubblers pulse with color, synchronized to music – all of these are sensorial experiences – audible, visual, and kinetic – that upgrade your backyard into a living, breathing showpiece.

Oásis Biosistema’s Hybrid Pond-Pool: Nature Meets Nerd

Now we step into rarified waters, where the raw beauty of nature meets the cold logic of high design – Oásis Biosistema’s hybrid pond-pool is a whole paradigm shift.

Unburdened by traditional notions of chlorine clouds and harsh blue hues, this system reimagines what a swimming pool can be; it’s part natural habitat, part modern marvel, an ecosystem designed to sustain itself while dazzling the eye! And beneath those tranquil aesthetics lies a marvel of bioengineering…

At its core, the sump filtration system operates silently underground, pulling water downward through layers of Japanese filter mats, bio-media, and specialized brushes. Each element is precision-selected to mimic the self-cleansing properties of the most pristine ecosystems – the submerged pump, artfully hidden from view, ensures seamless recirculation, then comes the pièce de résistance: UV and ozone treatments! The ultraviolet light sterilizes pathogens at the cellular level with clinical precision, while ozone oxidation neutralizes organic debris. The combination delivers water of exceptional clarity – glass-like, luminous, and free from the pungent residue of chemical treatment!

The result is a pool that’s biologically harmonious, visually enchanting, and astonishingly low-maintenance. It invites fish and flora to participate in the ecosystem, all while offering humans an experience that transcends traditional swimming – no icky chlorine itch, no environmental guilt – just liquid tranquility in its purest, most beautiful form!

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How to Choose the Best Inground Pool for Your Needs (Without Losing Your Mind)

Before you jump head-first into this shimmering dream, let’s talk tactics. Choosing the right inground pool isn’t as simple as picking between a sleek geometric showpiece or a whimsically curved lagoon. It’s a delicate dance of aesthetics, function, and long-term foresight. The wrong choice could leave you with a murky, underwhelming basin that drains your wallet and your patience – or worse, one so cramped that even your dog looks at you judgementally. 

This is your blueprint to getting it right, from soil to shape to systems, so that your pool isn’t just a statement, but a serene, stylish, and smart investment!

Budget: Let’s Talk About the Pool-Sized Hole in Your Wallet

First up: how much cha-ching are you working with? Inground pools aren’t exactly pocket change territory. Here’s the rough idea:

  • Vinyl liner: Cheapest to install, friendly to your budget… but kinda high-maintenance over time. Liners need replacement every 7–10 years, and if a raccoon decides to moonwalk across your pool cover? Yep, there goes your liner.
  • Fiberglass: Middle of the road in terms of price and upkeep. It’s pre-molded (read: fast install) and pretty slick maintenance-wise. But you’ll need to love the shapes available, ’cause customization here is… limited.
  • Concrete (Gunite): The Beyoncé of pool types. Fully customizable, ultra-durable, and fancy AF. But also the most expensive and time-consuming to install.

Pro Tip: Factor in operating costs too – electricity, filtration, cleaning, and “fun accessories” like lights, fountains, or that absurd flamingo float you definitely don’t need but will 100% buy.

Space: Measure Twice, Dig Once

You can’t just yell, “POOL HERE!” and point at your backyard like they do in HGTV.

If you’ve got a small yard, consider plunge pools, lap pools, or even hybrid pond-pools such as the ones at Oásis Biosistema! Big yards mean you have space to have big ideas – freeform lagoons, tanning ledges, inbuilt spas, waterfalls to leave you feeling like you’re starring in a shampoo commercial.

Also check the setback regulations, and don’t forget room for decking, landscaping, and the ultimately sacred poolside grill!

Aesthetics: The Vibe Matters, People!

This is where your Pinterest board takes the wheel – it’s design time.

Do you prefer sleek and contemporary? Opt for sharp shapes, concrete, and minimal gardening.

Tropical oasis? Envision curves, rocks, plenty of greenery, and perhaps some cheeky tiki lights.

Natural beauty? Hybrid ecosystems with flowers and biological balance such as Oásis Biosistema provides may be your cup of tea. 

Don’t forget to consider the following: coloring (darker bottom = natural lagoon feel, white bottom = crystal clear water), lighting and other cool add-ons like baja shelves or fire pits can add a super cosy and luxurious touch!

Maintenance: Be Honest with Yourself

Look, if you’re the type of person who lets their plants “go back to nature,” then… maybe don’t choose the highest-maintenance pool on the menu.

Fiberglass: Low maintenance. Non-porous = less algae = fewer weekends spent yelling at your pool skimmer.

Vinyl: Needs a little more TLC – watch those chemicals and liner tears!

Concrete: Gorgeous, but she’s high maintenance – specifically, she needs regular brushing, acid washing every few years, and careful chemical balancing.

Climate: Mother Nature’s Vote

Cold climates = You’ll need to winterize that sucker! Fiberglass holds up well to freezing and thawing cycles.

Hot and sunny? Go nuts, but also plan for evaporation, UV degradation, and potential algae parties if your pool isn’t filtered right.

Humid areas = Watch out for mold and water chemistry swings!

Also, solar heaters or heat pumps might be worth the splurge depending on your swim season… because no one wants a polar plunge in July.

Work With Pros: Seriously, Don’t DIY This

Yes, YouTube is amazing. But unless your name is Bob the Builder and you’ve got a backhoe in your garage, this is not a solo project.

Hire professionals – designers, landscapers, pool builders – because this is a big investment. The right team will:

  • Help you choose the best material and filtration system for your needs.
  • Handle permits and local code compliance so you don’t get fined into oblivion.
  • Customize everything from layout to lighting, and integrate cool systems like Oásis Biosistema’s sump-driven clarity-tech. (It’s like sci-fi for pools.)

And hey – if you want something a little different from the typical suburban rectangle? Give Oásis Biosistema a look. Our hybrid pools are legit beautiful and low-maintenance, with filtration so smart it probably pays taxes!

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Inground Pool Maintenance Tips: Keeping Your Pool in Pristine, Instagram-Worthy Condition

Alright, you’ve got your inground pool – congrats, you fancy fish! Now comes the part no one brags about on social media: maintenance. Don’t worry, maintaining the aspect of your pool as a lagoon-like oasis and not some science experiment gone wrong in the swamps doesn’t have to be drudgery – provided you adhere to some simple rules.

Routine Cleaning: The Not-So-Glamorous Grind

Let’s get the basics out of the way first.

  1. Skimming Debris: Yes, you have to actually scoop leaves out. That floating skimmer net isn’t poolside décor – grab it daily or every other day and channel your inner zen gardener (except instead of raking sand, you’re fishing out bugs and leaves). The sooner you get debris out, the less gunk ends up in your filter system. Less gunk = fewer headaches!
  2. Filter Check-Up: Your filter is the liver of your aquatic ecosystem. Whether you’ve got a cartridge, sand, or DE (diatomaceous earth, for those of you who enjoy sounding fancy at barbecues), you must clean it regularly. Think once every 1–2 weeks during heavy swim season. Clogged filters lead to murky water, algae parties, and that smell. You know the one.
  3. Pump Power: This is the pool’s heartbeat. Without proper circulation, your water turns from crystal-clear to pond scum cosplay real fast. Ideally, your pump should run 8–12 hours a day during the warm months to circulate and filter water properly. Got a variable speed pump? Even better – run it low and slow to save on energy while still keeping things flowing.

Advanced Water Treatments: The Fancy Science Stuff

Okay, here’s where we take things up a notch. If you’re tired of smelling like a public pool every time you take a dip, it’s time to embrace some next-level pool tech.

Chlorine Alternatives

Sure, chlorine works, but it can be pretty harsh – on your skin, hair, swimsuit, and your nose. Luckily, you’ve got options:

Saltwater systems: These convert salt to chlorine through electrolysis. You still have chlorine in the water, but it’s gentler and self-regulating. Plus, it feels seriously silky-smooth!

Mineral systems: Using elements like silver and copper, these systems inhibit algae and bacteria while reducing chlorine demand. 

UV Light Systems

UV (ultraviolet) systems zap water with a concentrated dose of light as it passes through the filtration system. But instead of getting a tan, your pools microbes and algae are obliterated at the DNA level! It’s fast, chemical-free, and super effective at sanitizing.

Ozone Treatment

This one’s like giving your pool a built-in air purifier – ozone (O₃) is injected into the water and oxidizes contaminants like body oils, sunscreen, and other “fun stuff” swimmers leave behind. It even reduces chloramines (a.k.a. the real cause of that “chlorine” smell), so your pool smells fresh, not like a YMCA locker room!

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Conclusion: The Splashy Recap

Alright, let’s do a quick dive back into what we just covered – because planning an inground pool isn’t just about digging a hole and praying for rain. Nope, there’s science, style, and a surprising amount of filter media involved.

So here’s what we learned:

  • Inground pools come in three main flavors: concrete (the heavyweight champ of customization), fiberglass (your low-maintenance bestie), and vinyl liner (the budget-friendly chameleon). All have their own perks and quirks.
  • They boost your property value, and make your backyard the ultimate summer HQ.
  • Modern tech is changing the game: From automation to eco-friendly heating, today’s pools are basically the Teslas of backyard water features.

And then there’s the wild card…Oásis Biosistema’s hybrid pond-pool system, which fuses biology with engineering to create something ridiculously clear and crazy low-maintenance.

Don’t forget: if you want a pool that doesn’t look like a science experiment gone wrong after one hot weekend, you need smart design and pro help!

Ready to go from “dry patch of grass” to “jaw-dropping aquatic wonderland”? We’ve got you.

Contact us today to dive into the innovative world of Oásis Biosistema. We’ll help you build a pool that’s not only a vibe but a science-backed, biologically balanced, professionally installed oasis. Whether you’re team fish, team clear water, or team “I just want to float with a drink,” your dream pool starts here!

FAQ

What is the average cost to install an inground pool?

The average cost to install an inground pool typically ranges from $35,000 to $65,000, depending on the type of pool, your location, the size, and all the bells and whistles you add (think waterfalls, lighting, or custom shapes).

Here’s a rough breakdown:

Vinyl liner pools: ~$25,000 to $45,000

Fiberglass pools: ~$35,000 to $60,000

Concrete pools: ~$50,000 to $100,000+ (because customization is queen)

Those numbers usually cover installation, but not ongoing maintenance, landscaping, or luxury extras. If you’re going for something unique like Oásis Biosistema’s advanced hybrid pond-pool system, expect pricing to reflect the added value of their high-end filtration and eco-tech.

“Best” really depends on your priorities, but here’s the lowdown:

Concrete pools are the most customizable, perfect for complex shapes, deep ends, or integrated spas. They’re strong, but they require more maintenance and resurfacing over time.

Fiberglass pools are low-maintenance, durable, and quick to install. You get fewer design options, but they’re a fantastic balance of function and fuss-free living.

Vinyl liner pools are the most affordable upfront and offer decent customization, but the liners will need replacing every 5 to 10 years.

Now, if you’re looking for something unique and eco-conscious, hybrid systems like those from Oásis Biosistema are worth considering. Their designs use a mix of plant life, fish, and advanced mechanical filtration (with UV and ozone treatment) to create a crystal-clear, low-maintenance pool that feels like a private natural retreat, without sacrificing water quality or swim space.

If you’re trying to keep things budget-friendly, vinyl liner pools are usually your best bet. They’re the cheapest to install, often starting around $25,000 to $35,000, and offer some flexibility in shape and size. DIY kits are also an option to save on labor, but you’ll need to be comfortable managing excavation, plumbing, and finishing details, so it’s not exactly a weekend project.

Just remember: “cheap” now can mean “costly” later if you skimp on quality materials or professional help. Cutting corners on installation might lead to leaks, liner issues, or even structural problems down the road.

An inground pool is a permanent swimming pool constructed directly into the ground, unlike above-ground pools, which sit on top of your lawn like giant water-filled donuts.

Inground pools come in a variety of types (concrete, fiberglass, vinyl) and can be fully customized in terms of shape, depth, features, and finishes. They’re designed to last for decades, add serious curb appeal, and often become the centerpiece of backyard living.

Some next-gen options, like Oásis Biosistema’s natural-meets-modern systems blur the line between swimming pool and eco-pond, offering a uniquely clear, balanced, and chemical-light swim experience that feels like nature upgraded with a filtration PhD.

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