Having a swimming pool is a common aspiration for many homeowners, but the reality of getting one can be anything but. For decades, the only option has been a traditional pool installed in-ground in your backyard. But today, homeowners have a smarter, more flexible alternative: modular pools.
Endless Pools modular pool systems are redefining what it means to design, install, and own a custom swimming pool. Engineered for flexibility and versatility, modular pools are a great option for homeowners who want the benefits of owning a pool without the headaches that typically come with one. But what exactly sets a modular pool apart from the traditional swimming pools most of us grew up with?
In this guide, we compare key differences between modular pools vs traditional pools, so you can decide which is the right investment for your home, lifestyle, and daily needs.
What is a Modular Pool?
A modular pool is a custom swimming pool made from individual, pre-engineered components that are tailored to your specifications. Rather than being poured or molded in one solid piece, modular pools are constructed in sections that are manufactured off-site, delivered to your home, and assembled on-site.
Endless Pools modular pool sizes can be customized in 1-foot increments but remain incredibly compact, especially when compared to a traditional lap pool. This is due to their proprietary Hydrodrive™ Technology, which produce a smooth, highly adjustable swimming current. This allows you to swim continuously in place without ever needing to flip-turn or share a lane.
What is a Traditional Pool?
A traditional pool is a standard, in-ground swimming pool, typically constructed from concrete, fiberglass, or vinyl.
Regardless of type, traditional pools have historically been designed for a specific kind of homeowner: someone with a spacious outdoor property, a big budget, and the time required for proper upkeep.
There’s no question that a well-built traditional pool can be a stunning backyard centerpiece, but it comes with significant investments of time, money, and space that aren’t realistic for every homeowner.
Modular Pools vs. Traditional Pools: A Side-by-Side Comparison
Choosing the right pool is a decision that needs to factor in your budget, property, lifestyle, and how much time you want to spend on upkeep. That’s why we’ve created this side-by-side comparison guide for modular pools vs traditional pools.
From budget considerations to timelines and more, here’s how Endless Pools modular pools compare to traditional in-ground lap pools:
1. Cost
Endless Pools Modular Pools:
Modular pool systems start at $18,000 for the most streamlined model to $65,000 for models with more advanced technology and performance features. The final purchasing price will include the entire project, from pool customizations to delivery and installation.
When you purchase a modular pool system from Creative Energy, you also gain access to our network of professional local contractors. They will oversee site prep, delivery, installation, plumbing, electrical, finishing work, and any other project requirements.
Traditional Pools:
Installing a traditional in-ground pool costs an average of $104,000–$140,000 in California.1 You will also need to coordinate and plan the delivery and installation on your own. This usually means hiring various subcontractors for site prep, plumbing and electrical work, landscaping, and more.
This can significantly drive up the price and prolong the process overall, as you coordinate, plan, and negotiate with multiple vendors.
2. Size & Space Requirements
Endless Pools Modular Pools:
The compact design of a modular pool delivers a full swimming experience in a fraction of the space a traditional pool demands. Endless Pools Modular Pool sizes are adjustable in 1-foot increments and come in various base dimensions ranging from:
- Smallest: 10′ 2″ x 8′ 9″
- Largest: 18′ 2″ x 9′ 9″
You only need clearance of 2 feet wider and 3 feet longer than the pool dimensions, and a minimum vertical clearance of 7 feet for proper ventilation, safety, and comfort.
Traditional Pools:
For a traditional pool for lap swimming, you need a minimum footprint of about 45 feet by 14 feet. This provides space for a standard single-lane 40-foot by 8-foot lap pool plus roughly 3 feet of space on all sides for entering and exiting.
3. Installation Time
Endless Pools Modular Pools:
In most cases, modular pools can be installed within 3-5 days. This shortened timeline minimizes disruption to your daily routine and means you get to enjoy your new pool much faster.
Traditional Pools:
Traditional pool installation is a major undertaking. The average in-ground pool can take 8-12 weeks (2-4 months) to build.2 Timelines can stretch further if weather or contractor availability causes delays.
4. Installation Location
Endless Pools Modular Pools:
Modular pools can be installed indoors or outdoors, in-ground, above-ground, or partially in-ground. Each individual component is designed to fit through standard doorways, staircases, and other tight spots. This makes it easier to install a modular pool in places that traditional pools simply can’t reach (basements, garages, rooftops, sunrooms, etc.).
Traditional Pools:
Traditional pools are typically limited to large outdoor spaces with ample room for excavation equipment. If you want a traditional pool for lap swimming, you will need a minimum of 45 feet by 14 feet of space just for the pool itself.
5. Customization
Endless Pools Modular Pools:
By design, Endless Pools modular pool systems are built around your specific design preferences and your daily needs. Everything from the interior and exterior design to the features and accessories it comes with, and even where and how it’s installed, can all be tailored to fit your space and how you plan to use your pool.
There are also tons of amazing aquatic fitness features you can add-on, including underwater treadmills, Aquabikes, and more. With a modular pool, every detail inside and out is chosen by you to match your unique needs and preferences.
Traditional Pools:
Traditional pools can be built in virtually any shape or configuration, and with a variety of features, but that level of customization comes at a significant price. Once it’s built, changes are costly if not impossible.
6. Usability
Endless Pools Modular Pools:
Modular pools are engineered with robust insulation, lockable covers, and efficient heating systems that make them great for year-round use even in colder climates. Their smaller footprint and energy-efficient design allow the water to heat faster and maintain temperature more effectively.
Modular pools are also often designed with multi-purpose functionality in mind. Many models comfortably accommodate families, couples, or small groups and provide room for relaxation, exercise, or recreation.
Traditional Pools:
Traditional in-ground pools are often viewed as seasonal amenities, especially in colder climates. Because of their larger water volume, they typically require more heating power and higher energy costs to stay comfortable during cooler months.
7. Ongoing Water Care & Maintenance
Endless Pools Modular Pools:
Because of their compact size, modular pools are incredibly low maintenance compared to traditional pools, requiring a simplified water care routine and less upkeep overall.
Every modular pool has built-in water filtering systems that keep your water consistently clean and refreshing. They also have a much smaller water volume in general. The smallest base modular pool only requires 1,375 gallons of water, and the largest base only requires 3,366 gallons of water.
With the right products and routine, water care is incredibly easy and quick.
Traditional Pools:
A traditional swimming pool will require anywhere from 10,000 and 20,000+ gallons of water. Ongoing upkeep will include consistent chemical balancing, filter maintenance, vacuuming, skimming, and more. And that’s before factoring in heating, repairs, or liner/surface replacement over time.
8. Portability
Endless Pools Modular Pools:
If you move, your Endless Pools modular pool can absolutely move with you. The modular design means it can be disassembled and reassembled at a new location, protecting your investment regardless of where life takes you.
Traditional Pools:
Traditional in-ground pools are designed to be permanent additions to a property. Once installed, they generally become a fixed part of the landscape for the life of the property.
Design Your Dream Modular Pool at Creative Energy
Modular pools and traditional pools both have unique benefits that serve separate needs. If you’re on the market for an option with a compact footprint, flexible installation, year-round usability, and built-in fitness features, a modular pool is worth exploring.
Creative Energy has been in the spa game since 1976, helping homeowners across the San Francisco Bay Area create the wellness retreats of their dreams. We carry a wide selection of hot tubs, swim spas, cold plunges, and now modular pools for every space, lifestyle, and budget.
Ready to build the pool of your dreams? Request a consultation today, or visit one of our showrooms to chat with an expert in person.