Building a pool in Richmond involves several variables that can influence the total price. From soil conditions to design choices, here’s what affects the cost:
1. Pool Material
The material you choose for your pool is one of the biggest cost drivers and can impact how long your pool lasts and how much maintenance it needs over time.
Concrete Pools
Concrete pools are a popular choice for Richmond homeowners because of their flexibility in shape, size, and style. They’re fully customizable and built to last for decades. At Anthony & Sylvan, we include travertine coping and a wide variety of tiles and finishes as standard. If you’re looking for something more specific, upgrades are available beyond our many included options.
- Lifespan: 50–100 years
- Maintenance: Resurfacing typically every 8–20 years, depending on the type of finish
Fiberglass Pools
Fiberglass pools are factory-molded and delivered to your home as a single piece. They’re similarly priced to concrete pools. While customization is limited to pre-designed shapes, many Richmond homeowners appreciate the low maintenance.
- Lifespan: Around 25 years
- Maintenance: Occasional gel coat touch-ups may be needed to maintain appearance
Vinyl Pools
Vinyl pools are the cheapest type of pool, and are made from plastic polymer or steel. These materials offer the least durability and lowest lifespan of any pool type, and require the homeowner to replace the vinyl liner every 10 years.
2. Size and Depth of the Pool
Most pools are between 5 to 8 feet deep. Deeper pools also allow for features like jump boards, which may require structural reinforcements and additional excavation — adding to the project’s complexity and expense.
3. Site Preparation
Richmond’s terrain plays a big role in determining site prep costs. Much of the region sits on dense red clay, which holds moisture and can make excavation more difficult. In neighborhoods like The Fan, Church Hill, or Westover Hills, limited access, mature trees, or older infrastructure may require custom equipment or extra labor.
In the suburbs — such as Short Pump or Midlothian — you may have more open space, but sloped lots are common and can require grading, retaining walls, or design adjustments. These site-specific factors often lead to additional time and cost during installation.
4. Pool Add-ons and Features
When it comes to customizing your pool, many Richmond homeowners tend to lean toward elegant, functional features that complement the region’s blend of historic charm and modern outdoor living. Popular pool add-ons in the Richmond area include:
- Tanning ledges and built-in benches for relaxing in the water during humid summers
- Jump boards for added fun in deeper pools (typically 6–8 feet deep)
- Water features like sheer descents, deck jets, and bubblers, which add ambiance and a cooling effect
- LED lighting for mood-setting and night swimming
- Attached spas or spillover spas, a common choice for year-round use in Virginia’s changing seasons
Any add ons or special features to your pool will increase the final cost.
5. Permits & Regulations
Permit requirements vary across Richmond and surrounding counties but typically include zoning, safety, and electrical inspections. The permitting process affects both timeline and cost, especially if additional documentation or design modifications are required.
However, homeowners don’t have to navigate this alone — permit coordination is typically handled by your pool builder as part of the project.
