Want to beat the summer heat without spending thousands? Here’s how you can build a budget-friendly above-ground swimming pool and transform your backyard into a refreshing oasis—without breaking the bank!
Building your own pool might sound complicated, but it’s totally doable (even if you’ve never done a DIY project before). With the right materials, a little creativity, and some effort, you can enjoy summer vibes and cool water on a budget. Let’s jump right in!
DIY Above-Ground Pool Options
Before you begin, you’ll need to decide which pool style fits your vision and budget. Here are four affordable options to inspire your build.
1. Pallet Pool
Repurpose wooden pallets to create the pool frame and line it with a heavy-duty waterproof tarp. It’s rustic, customizable, and perfect for a backyard with a DIY vibe.
2. Stock Tank Pool
A stock tank is a large metal container designed for farm animals, but it’s become a trendy (and sturdy!) option for pools. It’s perfect for those who want something both durable and Instagram-worthy.
3. Frame-and-Liner Pool
Build a custom frame using wooden planks or PVC pipes and add a thick waterproof liner. This option gives you room to design your pool’s size and shape.
4. Inflatable Pool
Quick, simple, and cheap! Inflatable pools are convenient and ready-to-use, although they’re less durable in the long run.
Pro Tip: For something long-lasting and stylish, stock tank or pallet pools are your best bet.
Suggested: Build a Stylish Coffee Table from Pallets
Budget Essentials You’ll Need
Keeping costs low starts with sourcing affordable materials. You can find most of what you need at hardware stores, on Facebook Marketplace, or even at salvage yards.
Key Materials
Frame Options:
- Pallets (for a pallet pool)
- PVC pipes or wooden planks (for a frame pool)
- Stock tank (for a stock tank pool)
Liner:
- Heavy-duty waterproof tarp
- Pond liner or vinyl pool liner for added durability
Other Must-Haves:
- Sand or foam pads (for leveling the ground)
- Ratchet straps or zip ties (to secure the frame)
- A small pump and filter (optional but recommended to maintain clean water)
Money-Saving Tip: Most warehouses or home improvement stores give away free pallets. Just ask!
Building Your Budget Pool
With your tools and materials in hand, it’s time to get building! Follow these simple steps to DIY your above-ground swimming pool.
Step 1: Choose the Perfect Location
Pick a flat, sunny spot in your backyard. Sloped or rocky areas are a no-go. Once chosen, clear the space of grass, rocks, and debris.
Prep the Surface: Spread sand, foam padding, or even old carpet as a base to cushion the bottom of your pool and protect the liner.
Step 2: Build the Frame
Pallet Pool: Arrange the pallets in a circular or rectangular shape and secure them together with zip ties or ratchet straps.
Stock Tank Pool: Simply place the stock tank on your prepared ground—easy-peasy.
Frame Pool: Create a square or rectangular frame using wooden planks or PVC pipes and make sure the corners are sturdy.
Step 3: Add the Liner
Lay the tarp or liner over the frame and make sure it’s snug across the bottom and sides. Smooth out wrinkles as you go, and secure the edges to the frame with nails, clips, or zip ties.
Step 4: Fill It Up!
Carefully fill your pool with water, smoothing out any remaining wrinkles in the liner as the water rises. While optional, installing a small filter pump will help keep your pool clean longer.
Quick Tip: Adding a little baking soda to the water helps balance the pH and keeps the water fresh longer!
Pool Maintenance on a Budget
A DIY pool doesn’t mean high maintenance costs. Here are some low-cost ways to keep your water clean and sparkling.
DIY Filtration System
Use a small fountain pump with a homemade filter (like sponge or sand filters) for a simple setup.
For smaller pools, an aquarium filter works beautifully.
Total Clean Hacks
Use a skimmer or fine-mesh net to remove leaves and debris daily.
Add a cup of vinegar per 100 gallons to keep algae away.
Cover your pool with a cheap plastic tarp or solar cover when it’s not in use.
Pro Tip: If you don’t have a pump, drain and refill the pool every 7–10 days.
Also Try: DIY Raised Garden Bed with Wood
Add Comfort and Fun for Less
Your above-ground pool doesn’t just have to function—it can also look amazing and feel luxurious. Here are some budget-friendly extras to enhance your experience.
DIY Pool Deck: Use pallets or leftover wood to create a mini deck area. It’s perfect for lounging!
Floating Accessories: Grab fun, cheap pool noodles or inflatables.
Solar Heating: Place black trash bags on the water’s surface to naturally warm up the pool on cooler days.
Bonus Idea: String up fairy lights or add tiki torches around the pool for an enchanting evening vibe.
Bring the Oasis to Your Backyard
Building your own above-ground swimming pool doesn’t have to cost you an arm and a leg. With options like pallet pools, stock tanks, or PVC frames, you can create a cool backyard oasis for a fraction of the cost of a traditional pool.
Not only is it budget-friendly, but it’s also a fun, rewarding project that you and your family will enjoy. Take the plunge—beat the heat this summer in style!
