Adding a swimming pool to your outdoor living space is no small feat. First, you must endure days or even weeks of large machinery and mess on your property. Then, there is the cost of an in-ground pool, which is significantly higher than the price of an above-ground model. You may decide that you can afford the actual pool installation, only to realize later that you don't have any cash left over for safety equipment and necessary pool supplies. It is important to weigh all the costs of an in-ground pool to ensure you are ready for what lies ahead.

Installation

This is the largest chunk of your pool budget and will vary quite a bit based on the type of pool you install and the size and shape of your structure. While materials will take a serious percentage of the price, the primary cost goes to the labor involved. In fact, some contractors may tell you that materials to build a gunite pool actually cost less than those to install a less expensive fiberglass model.

However, gunite pools usually require more large machinery and become very labor intensive. This raises the cost of gunite pools significantly, making them the most expensive choice in in-ground pools as a general rule. When you sign on the bottom line with the contractor, make sure the cost of your installation includes everything necessary to get the pool up and running. Otherwise, you may be in for some nasty - and expensive - surprises along the way.

Water

It is also important to take the cost of water into account, unless you want a dry pool sitting in your backyard all summer long! Whether you use your own plumbing system to fill your swimming pool or have water brought in by truck, there will be a cost involved. Shipped water costs much more than your own garden hose, unless your water supply is charged at a higher rate for large quantities or is limited due to the use of a well rather than the city water main.

Equipment

There is some equipment you cannot live without, such as chemicals to keep your pool water sanitized, a pump to circulate your water, a filter to clean debris from your water and a ladder or steps to get in and out of the pool safely. It is also a good idea to have an enclosure installed around your pool area to keep out children and animals. You may also want some equipment just for fun, such as a slide, diving board or toys. Pool furniture is usually a must to allow family a friends a place to relax after a swim. Calculate the cost of all your equipment beforehand, so your budget is ready to handle the load.

A backyard swimming pool can be expensive to install and maintain, but the enjoyment you get out of your outdoor living space makes it well worth the cost involved. By understanding the full cost of an in-ground pool prior to installation, you will be prepared to handle the responsibility and enjoy your new pool without any budget worries.