Pool House: Added Square Footage Or Not?

Adding a pool house to your property can be a great way to increase your home's value and enhance your living space. A pool house can serve as a private changing area, storage space for pool equipment, and even a guest house. The cost of building a pool house varies depending on size, features, and materials, but it typically ranges from $24,000 to $180,000, with the average cost being around $110,000. In this paragraph, we will explore whether adding a pool house increases the square footage of your home and discuss the benefits and considerations of installing one.

Pool house construction costs

For a basic pool house shed, you can expect to pay around $1,500 for a 100-square-foot structure. On the other hand, a custom-built pool house with high-end features like a bathroom, kitchen, or changing room can cost upwards of 200,000 for a 300-square-foot space.

Prefabricated pool houses are a more affordable option, with prices starting at $5,000 to $6,000 for a basic model and ranging up to 25,000 or more for larger sizes. However, these prefab structures may not add as much value to your home as a permanent custom-built pool house.

When planning your pool house construction, it's important to consider the additional costs for utilities, such as water and electricity, which can increase the overall budget. Obtaining the necessary permits and complying with zoning laws and HOA regulations will also impact the total cost.

While a pool house can be a significant investment, it adds value to your property and enhances your outdoor living space, making it a worthwhile consideration for those looking to improve their homes.

Added home value

Building a pool house can be a great way to add value to your home. A pool house can increase your property's value by up to 8%, making it an excellent long-term investment. This increase in value can be attributed to the added functionality, convenience, and entertainment space that a pool house provides.

The return on investment (ROI) for building a pool house is estimated to be around 5% to 8%. This means that if you spent $100,000 building a pool house, you could expect the value of your home to increase by about $5,000 to $8,000. While this may not be a significant financial gain, it is still a benefit worth considering, especially if you are already planning to build a pool or make other renovations to your property.

The value added by a pool house can also be attributed to the convenience and functionality it brings to your home. A pool house provides a private space for changing, lounging, and storing pool equipment, reducing traffic and mess in your main house. It also adds entertainment space, allowing you to host guests and create memorable experiences by the pool.

Additionally, a pool house can be customised to include various features that enhance its value. For example, you can install a bathroom, kitchen, bar, or outdoor shower, providing even more functionality and convenience for you and your guests. These additions can increase the size and cost of the pool house, but they also contribute to its appeal and the overall value it adds to your home.

When deciding whether to build a pool house, it is important to consider the costs involved. The average cost of building a pool house is between $24,000 and $180,000, depending on the size, features, and customisations. There are ways to save on these costs, such as opting for a prefab or recycled structure, choosing affordable materials, or building it yourself if you have the necessary skills.

In conclusion, building a pool house can add significant value to your home, both in terms of monetary worth and the enhanced functionality and enjoyment it provides. It is a long-term investment that can make your home more appealing to potential buyers and improve your overall living experience.

Pros and cons of a pool house

A pool house is a freestanding structure that exists separately from your home, usually located near your pool. It is intended to store pool toys and supplies and provide a space for people to change into and out of their swimwear.

Pros:

• It provides a convenient space for family and guests to change into their swimwear, without having to go into the main house.
• A pool house can add value to your home, increasing its appeal and making it a more viable investment.
• It can serve as a communal space for pool users to enjoy each other's company, creating a more memorable experience.

Cons:

• There are additional costs involved in building and maintaining a pool house, including construction, insurance, and utility costs.
• It requires extra cleaning and maintenance, which may be undesirable for those who don't want the additional work.
• A pool house poses safety concerns, especially if there are small children in the household, requiring extra precautions to be taken.

Pool house types

Pool houses come in all shapes, sizes, and styles, and can be customised to fit a range of budgets. There are two main types of pool houses: custom pool houses and prefab pool houses.

Custom-built pool houses are structures that are built from the ground up and become a permanent part of your property. This type of pool house gives you the most room for customisation in terms of how you want the pool house to look and function.

Prefab pool houses, on the other hand, are pre-built and ready to be installed in your yard. While you may not have as much control over the design, you won't have to deal with a lengthy backyard construction project. You may even be able to bring your pool house with you if you move, depending on how it's placed or installed.

There are several different types of pool houses to choose from, each serving a unique purpose and with a different price point.

Storage Shed

A storage shed is the simplest and most affordable type of pool house. It provides space to store pool toys, equipment, and towels, but doesn't typically include space to relax.

Cabana

A cabana is a step up from a shed as it contains an outdoor bathroom, providing a convenient way for guests to use the bathroom without having to track water through your home. Cabanas also typically have space for storage.

Guest House

A guest house, or in-law suite, is the most involved type of pool house build. It includes space for storage, a bathroom, and areas for guests to relax and stay overnight. Guest houses are the most expensive option but provide the most utility.

Planning and site preparation

Planning:

• Determine your budget: Building a pool house can be expensive, with costs ranging from $24,000 to $180,000 or more, depending on the size and features. Set a realistic budget to guide your decision-making.
• Decide on the purpose of your pool house: Do you want a simple storage shed for pool equipment, or do you want to include features like a changing room, bathroom, or guest quarters? Defining the purpose will help you determine the size and scope of the project.
• Check local regulations and zoning laws: Most cities require building permits for pool houses, and zoning laws can affect the size and placement. Consult your local government or city planning department to understand the requirements and obtain the necessary permits.
• Consider the location: Choose a spot in your yard that provides good visibility from the house, ensuring pool safety. Also, think about access to utilities like water and electricity, and keep in mind any setback requirements from property lines.
• Select the type of pool house: You can opt for a custom-built pool house, which offers more customization options but may be more costly and time-consuming. Alternatively, consider a prefab pool house, which is pre-built and can be installed quickly, although you may have less design control.
• Hire the right professionals: Engage the services of a dependable contractor, architect, or designer who has experience in building pool houses. Get referrals, check their credentials, and ensure they are insured and bonded.

Site Preparation:

• Clear and level the land: Ensure the area where the pool house will be built is clear of any obstructions and levelled to ensure structural integrity. This step is crucial, as an uneven surface can cause stress on the building and affect the proper functioning of the pool equipment.
• Install utilities: Plan for the necessary utilities, such as water and electricity. Consider adding electrical items like pool lights or a robotic pool cleaner, and ensure these are properly connected to avoid having cords stretched across the yard.
• Prepare the foundation: Whether you're building a custom or prefab pool house, a solid foundation is essential. Consult with your contractor about the specific requirements for your pool house foundation and ensure it is level and secure.
• Plan for access: Consider how you and others will access the pool house, including emergency personnel. Ensure there is a clear path to the pool house and that it complies with any local regulations regarding setbacks and fencing.
• Think about the surroundings: Decide if you want to include a deck, landscaping, or other features around your pool house. These additions can enhance the aesthetics and functionality of the space but will also impact your budget and timeline.

Frequently asked questions