What is the Best Size For a Home Swimming Pool?

By Blue Cube on Wednesday, 08th Feb 2023 in Tips & Tricks.

When planning a swimming pool, there are numerous aspects to consider, such as pool type, materials, and whether any building restrictions would apply to your project. One of the most crucial deciding factors will obviously be how much you can afford to spend and which building method you require, but the size of your swimming pool is also significant.

Pools come in a variety of sizes, and with certain pool construction methods, there are no restrictions on the size of your pool.

In this blog post, we will discuss the best home swimming pool size and offer some insight into what size pool to install when creating your indoor pool or outdoor hideaway. We will also provide you some helpful hints when deciding on the home swimming pool size.

What is the purpose of your swimming pool project?

It appears to be a simple question, but when you dig further, you may discover that you want a new swimming pool in your home for a variety of reasons. A swimming pool is not built simply because you want one. In most circumstances, you have a specific reason for having a swimming pool installed. 

As a result, it’s important to take into account all of the alternatives a swimming pool may provide you and your family before deciding on the right swimming pool size for your property.

Recreational pools

Recreational pools are a great addition to any home and are usually the most common type of swimming pools. They are typically used for leisure activities like swimming, diving, splashing around, playing games, exercising, or just relaxing.

However, it’s important to choose the right size pool for your recreational activities – and for your space. Consider how many people will be using the pool at one time and make sure you pick a size that accommodates for this.

Often, in the UK, people often like to save some garden space and opt for slightly smaller pools than in the US or Australia. Popular recreational pool sizes in the UK include:

  • 10 x 5m: A 10 x 5m pool is suitable for a family of four or more who want to enjoy swimming, play games and other water activities.
  • 11 x 4m: This size pool is ideal for two or three people who want to relax and swim a few laps.

Swim spas

Swim Spas have boomed in popularity in the last year. They work as a cross between hot tubs and pools and are popular for people who don’t have as much space for a large pool or don’t want to lose much space. 

Swim Spas work as exercise pools, with a swim jet that you swim against the current on for exercise. Some Super Spas can also be split to include hydrotherapy jet seats at the one end and the swim jet at the other. These can be used to give hydrotherapy messages after swimming and such and make it much more social, being a hot tub and pool hybrid.

Pools for exercise

For competitive and athletic swimmers or swimming laps as part of your exercise regime, you should opt for a rectangular shaped pool. A swim lane is essential, but so is the depth and other key elements, so the size of your exercise pool will likely depend on the specifics of the space you’re working with. 

Popular size options in the UK often include 10x5m and 11x4m pools, both of which can be used for leisure and exercise. However, a strong focus on swimming lengths as part of your exercise regime will require a pool with dimensions to match, so consider what type of exercise you’ll be doing before you decide on a size.

How much space do you have for your swimming pool installation project?

Not all pool requirements are the same, and not all homes are the same size. As a result, the amount of space you have in your garden or house will determine the size of the pool you may install as well as any other design features you wish to incorporate. 

Nonetheless, not all homes have large enough outdoor spaces to support a variety of pool sizes. As a result, when constructing your swimming pool project, it is critical to maximise the usage of your living area.

Swimming pool depth

The depth of your pool is an important issue. According to SPATA (Swimming Pool and Allied Trades Association) guidelines, the minimum water depth for most swimming strokes is 1.1m. The rules also recommend a minimum depth of 1.5m for a shallow dive (with a minimum length of 7.6m).

How often will you use your pool?

Another consideration is the frequency of use. This will have an effect on the amount of pool upkeep required. People, pets, insects, and other material can render your pool inoperable, so consider maintenance while deciding the best pool size for your purposes.

An in ground pool will give you longevity and stability. Using robust and secure materials can help you get the most out of your pool while reducing pool maintenance efforts.

Considering the budget for your swimming pool

When contemplating the size of your pool project, long-term financial planning is typically essential. Pools cost money to install, operate, and maintain, so there is no magic number to consider when planning for long-term pool maintenance.

It’s important to base your costs on your usage, location, and a maintenance plan agreed upon with your provider. Other costs to consider include normal pool care, covers for outdoor pools, fencing, chemicals, cleaning, and other services. Every component of the pool requirements will be influenced by the size of your pool.

Looking for expert pool installation and design?

Get in touch with our award-winning skilled pool builders and service team today for guidance on your perfect swimming pool size. We can provide pool solutions to match your specific needs, regardless of price or style.

Contact us now for more information about your dream swimming pool.


Best home swimming pool size FAQs

What is the best depth for a family pool?

Most “fun” pools should be at least three feet deep to accommodate both adults and children, and at least four to five feet deep for safety. Swimmers who are serious about swimming laps should aim for a minimum depth of five feet and a length of 25 metres.

What is the most popular pool size?

A 10 x 5m & 11 x 4m rectangle is the most popular pool size and design in the UK. You can also opt for a smaller, luxurious Swim Spa, which is a hot tub and swimming pool hybrid. A swim spa is essentially a small pool that can be used for exercise, relaxation, massage and socialising.