Pools made from repurposed shipping containers have become increasingly popular because they’re durable and easy to maintain. These pools are typically 8 feet wide but can vary in length from 20–45 feet. They have a modern, industrial style that can be customized to fit various backyard designs.
In the video above, This Old House DIY expert Jenn Largesse installs an 8-by-20-foot shipping container pool in her own backyard. Use our guide below to learn about the process and decide if a shipping container pool is right for your home.
Benefits of Shipping Container Pools
Shipping container pools come with several advantages, such as the following:
- Customization: Multiple sizes and features are available to suit your needs.
- Durability: Made from sturdy steel, these pools are built to last.
- Eco-friendly: Repurposing shipping containers reduces waste.
- Portability: If you move, you can potentially take your pool with you.
- Quick installation: They can often be installed in a matter of days, rather than weeks or months.
Potential Drawbacks of Shipping Container Pools
While shipping container pools have many benefits, they may not work for everyone. Here are some things to consider:
- Depth limitations: These pools are typically around 5 1/2 feet deep.
- Limited shape options: Most are rectangular, which may not suit all yard layouts.
- Permitting: Some areas may have regulations against these pool types.
How Shipping Container Pools Are Manufactured
Creating a shipping container pool is a fascinating process that transforms an ordinary steel box into a stylish swimming pool. Here’s how it works.
Preparation and Cutting
The process begins with the delivery of shipping containers to the manufacturing facility. Workers measure and mark the pool’s depth. Using a grinder, they cut along these marks and remove the top portion of the container.
Adding Features
Once the top is removed, the real transformation begins. Welders add different features to the container’s inside, including the following:
- Benches
- Steps
- Thick, steel rim (as a wall cap)
- Window frames (for underwater viewing)
Finishing Touches
The raw steel interior is then sandblasted clean and coated with primer. Finally, a multilayer topcoat is applied, which protects the pool and gives it color. This coating is highly elastic, allowing it to expand and contract with temperature changes without cracking. The manufacturers then set up the mechanical closet beneath the steps, which houses all of the pool’s equipment in a hidden space.
Before being sent to its destination, the pool undergoes a rigorous testing period, which includes filling it with water to test the coating, lines, and jets, before being emptied and dried for shipping.
Site Preparation for Pool Installation
Before the pool is delivered, take time to thoroughly prepare the site where you plan to install it with these steps:
- Excavation: Level an area large enough for the pool, plus an additional 4 feet for equipment access.
- Reinforcement: Install helical piers at each corner to support the pool’s weight.
- Concrete work: Pour concrete footers over the piers.
- Retaining wall: If necessary, build a retaining wall to support the surrounding earth.
- Utility trenches: Dig trenches for electrical and gas lines from the house to the pool site.
- Drainage: Add drainage gravel to the base and install a dry well for potential water removal.
The Installation Process
With site preparation complete, it’s time for the exciting part—installing the pool. Here’s how it typically unfolds:
- Delivery: The pool is transported to the site on a flatbed truck.
- Crane lift: A large crane lifts the pool over any obstacles and lowers it onto the prepared foundation.
- Positioning: Workers carefully adjust the pool’s position to make sure it’s perfectly level on the footings.
- Utility connections: Electricians and plumbers connect the pool to power and gas lines.
- Equipment setup: The pool’s filtration system, heater, and other equipment are installed and connected.
- Water filling: Once everything is in place and tested, the pool is filled with water.
Pool Equipment and Features
Shipping container pools come equipped with all the necessary components. Joel from Trek Pools points out several key features:
- Diverter valve for spa functionality
- High-efficiency heater capable of 400,000 BTUs
- Jets for water movement and massage
- LED lights for nighttime ambiance
- Skimmer for surface cleaning
- Stand-up cartridge filter for debris removal
- UV filter for sanitization, which kills 99.9% of the pool’s bacteria, reducing the need for chlorine
- Variable speed pump for efficient water circulation
- Wi-Fi-enabled control system for remote operation of lights, heat, and pumps
Shipping Container Pool Maintenance and Care
While shipping container pools are generally low-maintenance, they still require some care. Don’t forget about the following:
- Chemical balance: Test and adjust water chemistry weekly.
- Filter maintenance: Clean or replace the cartridge filter as recommended by the manufacturer.
- Regular cleaning: Skim the surface and vacuum the pool as needed.
- Winter preparation: In colder climates, properly winterize the pool to prevent damage.
Pool Cost Considerations
The cost of a shipping container pool varies by size, features, and installation complexity. According to the video, prices range from $16,000–$40,000. This may be more expensive than some above-ground pool options, but it’s often more affordable than traditional in-ground pools of similar size.
