Mini In-ground pools: advantages, disadvantages, and costs

In-ground mini pools: the big plunge in a small pool

The art of living in miniature! In our sometimes cramped gardens in-ground mini pools are making waves, adding a touch of freshness without requiring a princely estate. It's luxury in pocket format, a discreet touch of freshness that transforms a small corner of greenery into a private oasis.

Mini in-ground pools

These little wonders are the answer to the dilemmas of space and budget. Designed to fit effortlessly into the tiniest corner of our small gardens, in-ground mini-pools make a mockery of size. Why dream of a lake when a pool is all you need to cool off in summer?

Advantages of mini pools for small spaces and limited budgets

The advantage is twofold: these pools can be adapted to smaller plots of land and smaller budgets. Mini pools allow everyone to enjoy the pleasures of water without having to sell a kidney. Less materials, less work, less maintenance - all without sacrificing the chic and charm of a real pool. Elegance doesn't need Olympic dimensions to express itself.

What is an in-ground mini pool?

These little pools are like a shot of espresso: small in stature, but huge in impact. They nestle discreetly in your garden, transforming even the smallest space into a luxurious corner of paradise.

If you had to measure them, mini pools are generally no bigger than 10 square metres. But don't let their small size curb their charm or their ability to take on exquisite shapes: square, rectangular, round, or whatever your imagination and the whims of your land can concoct.

Elegantly integrated steps, underwater benches for aquatic discussions, well-placed jets to caress feet and backs: every element is designed to transform your garden into a sanctuary of relaxation.

As for the design, it's up to you. Simple or sophisticated, each mini pool is a stage on which to play out the pleasures of summer, in perfect harmony with the elegance of your home or the wildness of your garden.

Advantages of in-ground mini pools

Don't be fooled by their modest size, mini pools are full of panache.

They slip with nonchalant elegance into corners that we thought were doomed to boredom. Whether it's a small urban garden or a modest patch of greenery, the mini pool knows how to play small to offer you the pleasures of relaxation and play.

Lower cost than standard-sized pools You don't have to let your budget get in the way. The more affordable costs of in-ground mini-pools, both in terms of construction and materials, reduce the financial barrier. Less concrete, less cladding, less expense, but just as much fun.

Easy maintenance What about maintenance? A mini pool means less volume, and therefore less fuss. Water management, cleaning and pH adjustments become almost pleasant tasks, simplified by the smaller amount of water.

No more time wasted scrubbing; you'll have more time to splash around. For those who'd happily swap their cleaning gear for a pair of sunglasses, this is the ideal solution.

In-ground mini pools: they've got all the bells and whistles!

Swimming and relaxation You've just come back from a hard day's work? Your cool, inviting mini-pool is waiting for you in your garden. Dive in and let the stress of everyday life dissolve in the sun-kissed waters. For those looking for a little corner of paradise in which to relax, meditate or simply float under the blue sky, these mini pools are true sanctuaries of serenity.

Training and fitness Don't be fooled: these little pools pack a punch! Turn your mini pool into a dynamic aquatic workout centre with the addition of counter-current jets or resistance ropes. Perfect for morning laps or an invigorating aquagym session, it lets you burn calories and tone your muscles while remaining just a stone's throw from your French window.

Play areas for children And for the youngest? The mini pool becomes an aquatic adventure zone. Under the watchful eye of an adult, children can plunge into a world of fun and laughter, learn to swim safely and develop their motor skills. It's a fantastic way to introduce them to the joys of water while having lots of fun.

In-ground mini pools don't just please the eye and the wallet; they offer incredible versatility, adapting every garden to the different rhythms of life, from active rest to joyful play.

Different types of in-ground mini pools

Mini concrete pools

Concrete lends itself to your every whim. Whether your garden calls for a sinuous shape that weaves in and out of the flowers or a strict geometric design, the concrete mini pool is the answer.

Advantages of mini concrete pools

Like a rock in the face of storms, concrete holds out. Solid and unshakeable, it guarantees calm bathing year after year, braving the elements with unfailing stoicism.

Do you want a swimming pool that meanders like a stream or that adapts precisely to the whims of your terrain? Concrete bends to your every whim, allowing for all the eccentricities and architectural subtleties you can imagine.

With concrete, the watchword is freedom. There are no limits to shape or size, and every pool can become a unique piece, with jets, benches or steps wherever you like.

Disadvantages of concrete mini pools

Higher construction costs customisation and durability, what a luxury! But be warned, these delights come at a price. Be prepared, because building a concrete mini pool can be a bigger investment than other types of pool. With sophistication comes complexity: expect more time, more experienced professionals, and therefore more initial outlay.

More demanding maintenance Concrete is solid, but it needs to be pampered. To maintain its impeccable appearance and robustness, you'll need to commit to regular maintenance. Think of periodic retreading to combat the wear and tear of time, and constant attention to the chemical balance of your water to keep algae at bay and prevent premature wear of the material.

Mini vinyl pools

The attractive vinyl mini pool is famous for its ease of installation and affordability.

Advantages of vinyl mini pools

Lower initial cost Lighten your wallet without sacrificing style! Mini vinyl pools cost less to install than their concrete or fibreglass cousins. Inexpensive materials and a simplified construction process reduce labour costs and speed up your pool project.


Faster installation Want to take a dip right away? The vinyl pool is your express ticket to refreshment. Thanks to its prefabricated liner, which fits the existing structure like a glove, it can be ready in the blink of an eye. This saves you the time-consuming treatment and drying processes associated with concrete.


Disadvantages of vinyl mini pools

Despite their appeal, vinyl mini-pools also have their shortcomings.

Shorter lifespan Vinyl may have charm and durability, but it's not in the same league as concrete or fibreglass when it comes to longevity. With a lifespan happily hovering between 5 and 10 years, you'll need to plan a little facelift in the form of replacement because of wear and tear, dramatic little tears or discolouration that can dull its initial shine.

Vulnerability to damage Vinyl is susceptible to punctures and tears caused by sharp objects or inquisitive pets. Admittedly, these injuries are repairable, but they can inject a dose of irritation into your serenity and require unexpected interventions.

More limited choice of design If you're dreaming of a made-to-measure pool that hugs every curve and niche in your garden, vinyl can leave you wanting more. Available in a wide range of patterns and colours, you'll have to play with the shapes and sizes on offer.

Mini fibreglass pools

Fibreglass mini pools are a real compromise between ease of installation, durability and minimum maintenance.

Advantages of fibreglass mini pools

Quick installation The fibreglass pool arrives at your door ready to dive in. Prefabricated in the factory, these pools arrive at the construction site ready for action. Once the site has been prepared, all they need to do is be connected and they'll be the stars of your summer. No long months of construction, just a few days and off you go!

Minimal maintenance: If you prefer cocktails by the water to afternoons spent cleaning, fibreglass will win you over. Its smooth, non-porous surface says "no thanks" to algae and bacteria, drastically reducing the time you spend brushing and balancing water chemistry. The pool takes care of itself, leaving you free to bask in the sun.

Disadvantages of fibreglass mini pools

Less flexibility in terms of shapes and sizes Fibreglass swimming pools come in predefined shapes and sizes. The moulds used to make them impose their creative limits. If your dream is to swim in a pool shaped like a guitar or a crescent moon, fibreglass could leave you wanting more. For architectural visions that are out of the ordinary, it's not ideal.

Initial cost can be high Fibreglass: yes, it arrives quickly and requires little attention, but fibreglass requires a small initial financial sacrifice that is more substantial than vinyl. This cost may make you hesitate when finances are tight.

Prices of in-ground mini pools

It's time to talk money! How much do mini pools cost? concrete, vinyl or fibreglass? Please note that these estimates can fluctuate depending on your location, the whims of your project, the size of your future pool and any luxury finishes you may want.

Prices of concrete mini pools

Initial cost Get your purse ready: a mini concrete swimming pool can cost between €15,000 and €30,000. If you want to add a touch of fantasy with bespoke designs or features worthy of James Bond, the price could soar even higher.

Maintenance costs Every year, it costs between €300 and €800 to pamper your pool. On the agenda: cleaning, chemical balancing of the water, and sometimes a few touch-ups to repair cracks or give the surface a facelift.

Prices of vinyl mini pools

Initial cost More affordable: the entry price for a vinyl mini pool is between €10,000 and €20,000. A more affordable way to cool off.

Maintenance costs Maintenance: maintenance is less expensive, but don't forget to budget around €1,000 every 5 to 10 years to change the lining. Annual maintenance costs are around €200 to €500.

Prices of fibreglass mini pools

Initial cost With prices ranging from €12,000 to €25,000, fibreglass is a mid-range model that combines elegance and ease of use. A smart investment for years of carefree diving.

Maintenance costs Maintenance is child's play, costing between €100 and €400 a year, thanks to the material's resistance to green invaders and accidents along the way.

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