Step Aside, Traditional Pools: The Versatile Alternative Made From Upcycled Materials

Nothing beats having a large pool to relax in during the hottest parts of the year. If you want something that will last a long time and can be adapted to fit your needs, you usually want an in-ground pool. These, unfortunately, can take months to build and require extensive excavation. However, traditional in-ground or above-ground pools are no longer the only option. To choose the perfect pool for your small backyard that is versatile, faster to install, and made from upcycled materials, container pools may be a better fit. 

Shipping containers have recently appeared in the limelight as being pretty flexible building items. Originally used for transporting goods, many containers are retired from global shipping but remain structurally sound for other uses. Instead of letting them sit around unused, people are repurposing them in a variety of ways. Many choose to make homes out of them, but they also work well as either in- or above-ground pools. It's a fun and unique option that incorporates upcycling while working in most yard layouts. That makes them a strong alternative to traditional pools. 

Sometimes, it feels like all the stars have to be aligned perfectly if you want to build an in-ground pool without any headaches. But with container pools, you can sink them into the soil or place them above ground anywhere in your yard. Though the industrial and minimalist design already looks way better than traditional options, you can further dress up your above-ground pool with stylish wood features. 

Container pools are available in a few different sizes. While you're somewhat constrained by standard dimensions, there's still plenty of wiggle room in design. The most common options are 8 by 20 or 8 by 40 feet and about 8 feet deep, perfect for laps in the comfort of your own backyard. However, some companies will combine them into different shapes and sizes. They can also be moved, taking them to your next home, or readjusting in your yard if needed.

You may also need to consider the cost. According to Angi, a typical in-ground pool costs roughly $90 to $250 per square foot. This means a 160-square-foot pool (8 by 20 feet) costs between $14,400 and $40,000. A comparable container pool starts around $30,000, and may reach $50,000 for in-ground. 

Another factor to consider is that these containers can rust, potentially leading to structural damage over time. Making sure it's not sitting in water, adding a protective pool liner, and regularly inspecting for any signs of rust, though, can help to prevent these problems, on top of avoiding the worst mistakes you can make when cleaning your pool for summer. While it requires some extra maintenance and cost, the flexibility, faster installation, and knowing you did your part to upcycle materials that would otherwise go to waste might make these pools a great alternative to more traditional options.