Building a durable swimming pool on a budget often requires looking past standard above-ground options. The average cost to build an in-ground pool is around $66,000, but an above-ground pool made of vinyl or resin can still be expensive to maintain and prone to weather damage. One couple in Kenya found a middle ground by constructing a sturdy structure from concrete blocks. Max and Maria, creators of the Confused But Excited YouTube channel, designed a solid, above-ground pool that requires no digging and uses readily available materials.
Constructing the Structure
The build process begins with laying a foundation of concrete blocks. Max and Maria designed the pool with a bench and stairs included in the footprint. They constructed the walls up from this base, adding mortar between each block to create the structure. Rebar provides support for the walls, and the floor is poured using plain concrete. The project was built on top of an existing patio surface, so you may need to adjust for your plans.
Once the structure is complete, the team addressed the issue of waterproofing. They worked with a local builder to apply a layer of waterproof cement mixed with sand along the inner surfaces. The process involved three coats of cement, with the amount of sand decreasing in each layer until the final coat contained only cement and water. This layering ensures the interior remains secure. After the cement dries, the couple rolled on several layers of white chlorinated rubber paint to seal the surface.
Cost and Maintenance
For those considering this DIY project, the financial outlay is significantly lower than traditional options. All-in-all, the couple spent around 52,960 KES on the build, translating to approximately $466 USD. This amount primarily covered materials and a small amount of labor. However, it is important to factor in local building permits and regulations before starting work. While the concrete structure eliminates concerns about corrosion or warping, the pool still requires routine care.
Maintenance tasks include covering the pool when it is not in use, scooping out debris, and adding chemicals as needed. In an update video, Maria explained the drainage system. They installed a drain in one corner and attached a valve that allows them to open and close it to empty the water. This design feature simplifies the cleaning process, allowing the owners to manage the water level effectively without the need for heavy equipment.
Real-World Performance
Max shared in a follow-up video that the pool has remained in excellent condition over a year later. “We really love it. It hasn’t leaked. It hasn’t given us any problems,” he said.
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