12 Reasons Why You Should Consider a Shipping Container Pool

Pools offer fun outdoor living in your backyard. However, in-ground pools can be expensive to install. If you’ve looked into alternatives to traditional pools, you’ve likely wondered, “What is a shipping container pool?”

A shipping container pool is an affordable, sustainable alternative that allows you to enjoy the benefits of a home pool wherever you want. 

Shipping container pools are stylish, modern pools made from shipping containers. They are a sustainable option that offers owners flexibility and low maintenance. Here are 12 highlights of why you should consider shipping container pools. 

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1. Affordable

Price is the main reason people choose shipping container pools over traditional pools. Home Guide reports that the average cost of an inground pool is $35,000.

A shipping container pool costs less than $17,000. The price depends on the size, features, and deck construction. Shipping container pools also reduce installation and maintenance costs. 

2. Customizable 

Shipping containers come in a range of different sizes. Pick the size that suits you and customize it. 

One of the easiest ways to customize is by adding windows. This option is great for above-ground pools. Adding windows on both sides stops your pool from blocking views. Your shipping container pool will be transparent and will not obstruct any beautiful landscape views. 

Bigger pools allow you to create sections within the pool. Adding dividers will make your shipping container pool multifunctional.

For example, if you need a pool for swimming training, you can get an elongated shipping pool which is perfect for swimming laps. You can add a divider that permits you to do laps while your kids play in another pool section. 

Dividers also allow you to create a jacuzzi / hot tub section in your pool.

3. Sustainable

If you live in a sustainable home, carry your sustainable lifestyle to your backyard. Shipping containers are made of steel, which increases the long-term sustainability of your pool. 

There are millions of shipping containers already made in the world. Using pre-existing containers increases sustainability. In other words, you are upcycling a shipping container into a sleek pool for your enjoyment. 

You can deck out your backyard with a new pool without using any new materials. The environment will thank you!

4. Low Maintenance 

Shipping container pools are low maintenance compared to traditional pools. Maintaining traditional pools can be costly and time-consuming. Shipping container pools have a quality waterproofing system that reduces maintenance requirements. 

Most in-ground pools are made from concrete, vinyl, or fiberglass. Concrete pools require a lot of maintenance to keep cracks from forming (plus expensive finishes).

What’s more, In-ground pools are susceptible to calcium buildup, water pooling at the bottom, causing the pool to pop, and rusting around cracks. 

In comparison, shipping container pools do not require as much maintenance. Shipping containers are built to endure severe conditions. The metal steel exterior accounts for its sustainability and durability. 

Shipping container pools are a better option than traditional above-ground pools because you will spend less time repairing and tending to the eroded siding.

Keeping your pool’s water clarity is the only real maintenance. An excellent cleaning routine will take up less time and energy than it would with a traditional pool. 

5. Easy To Install

Not only are in-ground pools expensive, but they are complicated to install. For a traditional in-ground pool, you must clear your desired space, dig up your yard, and create a retaining wall if needed. After you do all this, then you can start building your pool. 

While shipping container pools have the option of being underground, most people choose to install them above ground.

Above-ground installation is easy. You can install your shipping container pool within your deck or have it as a stand-alone for easy transport. 

Premade shipping container pools reduce installation time. On-site installation takes a fraction of the time a traditional inground pool would take.

Instead of weeks, a shipping container pool is installed within a few days. One-day installation is also possible with smaller pools. 

6. Portable

Shipping container pools are self-contained and can be transported more easily than fiberglass above-ground pools. If you are moving, you can take your pool with you. 

Shipping container pools can be moved using a pickup truck or a crane, depending on what size your container pool is. If you are moving with a truck, refer to your truck’s maximum towing capacity to ensure it is safe. You will need a professional to help with transport and reinstalling the pool. 

7. Shipping Container Pools Can Be Lap Pools

Shipping container pools can be just as big as traditional pools. Most people think about the ones that are roughly 96 square feet and could fit into a parking spot. However, shipping containers vary in size. 

If you love swimming and want to do laps around your pool, you should pick a big container. On the other hand, a small eight-foot pool is a good option if you only want to dip your toes. 

8. In-Ground or Above-Ground Options

You can install a shipping container pool above-ground or in-ground. To install in-ground, you will need to build a retaining or exterior wall around the pool to ensure the metal container does not touch the soil.

The entry points are among the most significant differences between an in-ground and an above-ground pool. An in-ground pool allows you to get in or out of the pool from all sides. Above-ground container pools only have one entry and exit point. 

Also, an above-ground pool does not require your yard to be level. You can also build a deck to surround an above-ground pool and make the entry points like a traditional in-ground pool. However, a deck that size will be expensive. 

9. Easier and Cheaper to Keep Safe

Above-ground shipping container pools are safer than traditional pools. Above-ground pools are too tall for a toddler or a pet to fall into accidentally. Plus, shipping container pools only have one entrance. 

It is also cheaper to keep a container pool safe. Some cities require safety fences around pools. Since an above-ground pool has a single entry, you will not need a fence to protect it.

A single gate with a lock can block access to the pool. It is more cost-effective, and most cities do not require a fence for this type of pool. 

10. Long-Lasting

Shipping containers are very durable and long-lasting. A traditional pool lasts roughly 15 years, while a shipping container pool can last over 20 years. If a shipping container sustains damage, most damage is manageable and does not require redoing the whole pool. 

11. Stylish and Modern

Shipping container pools have a modern design. Most people have picked shipping container pools because the aesthetics involve sleek and clean lines, and it’s easy to design a backyard around a rectangular shape. Also, you can paint the outside of a shipping container to fit your tastes. 

12. Increase Home Value

If you decide to leave your portable shipping container pool behind, it will increase the value of your home and can help you sell your home faster. 

The value increase depends on the city you live in and the type of neighborhood. Warmer climate cities get more value from a pool. Also, sometimes buyers in high-end communities expect a pool.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you still have questions about shipping container pools? Here are some frequently asked questions to provide you with more information.

Is it hard to install a shipping container pool?

Shipping container pools are easy to install and require less labor than traditional pools. You can have your new pool installed in as little as one day. 

Shipping container pools are built offsite. The ease of installation is on par with a traditional fiberglass pool. If you need a pool quickly, you can install a ready-to-use shipping container pool within a day. Customized shipping container pools may take a few days. 

What features can be added to a shipping container pool?

Shipping container pools come with many different features. The shipping container pool can be heated so that you can get a combination of a pool and a hot tub using a divider. 

Shipping container pools come with tech features. Low-tech features include adding color-changing LED lights. High-tech features include controlling your heat and light features using your smart devices. 

Shipping container pools are customizable. So you can pick where to put your stairs, ladders, doors, and glass. You can also personalize your pool to make it feel homier and less sleek. 

How long do shipping container pools last?

Shipping container pools can last significantly longer than standard above-ground pools. It is reasonable to anticipate a lifespan of up to 25 years for a shipping container pool, whereas above-ground pools typically last around 10-20 years with proper maintenance. It is worth noting, however, that in-ground pools generally have an even longer lifespan.

Will a container pool rust?

A container pool can rust if it is not adequately coated or maintained. Since shipping containers are typically constructed from steel, they are susceptible to rusting when exposed to moisture and oxygen. Nevertheless, it is possible to prevent rust by applying a protective layer of paint or other materials to the container pool.

How long does it take to install a container pool?

It takes a variable amount of time to install a container pool, depending on the specific circumstances. However, most container pool manufacturers provide prefabricated shipping container pools that are constructed at their workshops and then transported to the desired location for installation. The construction phase can span several weeks or even months. However, once the pool is fully built, the setup process can be completed in as little as a day, allowing you to start enjoying your swimming experience promptly.

Are shipping container floors waterproof?

Shipping container floors are indeed waterproof. They are commonly used in industrial settings and are available in two options: steel plates with a smooth finish or tread steel with high traction. Both options are designed to be watertight and can be easily cleaned by spraying warm water and wiping them down.

How deep are Modpools?

The Modpools are 5’2″ deep and require reinforcement to hold 4,800 gallons of water. The containers come in two sizes, 8×20-feet or 8×40-feet, and are not suitable for diving.

Are shipping container pools worth it?

Shipping container pools are worth it because they offer excellent lap swimming capabilities. The elongated shape and ample length of these pools make them ideal for both racing and swimming laps. Circular pools can also be suitable for lap swimming, but shipping containers provide the necessary length for effective training.

Do shipping containers rust?

Shipping containers rust because they are made of Corten steel, which is an ‘Atmospheric Corrosion Resistant Steel’ that offers high resistance to atmospheric weathering compared to other unalloyed steels. However, due to the presence of iron in the metal, it is still susceptible to rusting.

Why are container pools so expensive?

Container pools are expensive due to the necessity of laying a concrete slab foundation that can adequately support the weight of the container when filled with water and people. The cost of a new concrete slab is approximately $6 per square foot or $110 per cubic yard.

How deep can a container pool be?

The depth of a container pool typically does not exceed 8 feet, which may not be sufficient for a diving board or certain slides. Shipping container pools are generally 8 feet wide and can range from 8 to 40 feet in length. The larger models are usually around 8×40 feet, while the smaller ones may measure approximately 8×12 feet.

How do you waterproof a shipping container pool?

The process of waterproofing a shipping container pool involves spraying special epoxy paint on both the inside and outside of the container. This special paint creates a barrier that prevents water from seeping through to the metal underneath, ensuring that the container remains rust-free.

What is the least expensive type of inground pool?

The least expensive type of inground pool is typically a vinyl liner pool. These pools have the lowest initial costs, making them a more affordable option. On average, homeowners can expect to spend between $35,000 and $65,000 to install a vinyl liner pool. The advantage of this type of pool is that it can be customized into different shapes and designs to suit individual preferences.

How much space do you need for a shipping container pool?

The amount of space required for a shipping container pool depends on the length of the outdoor area where it will be placed. When using a crane to lower the pool into position, a standard container typically needs a space that is between 20 to 40 feet long. Similarly, Endless Pools Fitness Systems, which are installed in a similar manner, generally require a maximum of 20 feet of space, although most models can fit in less space.

What is the most cost effective pool design?

The most cost-effective pool design is typically vinyl liner pools, as they tend to be the least expensive option among inground swimming pools. It is uncommon to find a pool builder who can construct a concrete or fiberglass pool at a price comparable to that of a vinyl liner pool. However, it is important to note that vinyl liner pools can still be expensive in certain cases.

Can you build your own shipping container pool?

Yes, it is possible to construct your own shipping container pool. By removing the roof of the container, you can create a pre-existing structure that offers ample space for swimming and relaxation. However, it is important to note that building a shipping container pool requires more effort than just purchasing a container, cutting off the top, and filling it with water.

Do container pools have liners?

Container pools do not have liners. Instead, they are equipped with a custom-made fiberglass shell, ensuring no pool liner is needed and eliminating concerns of rust or paint deterioration. These pools are built using top-quality materials and undergo rigorous testing to ensure they can withstand harsh weather conditions and heavy usage.

How tall are shipping container pools?

Shipping container pools come in different sizes, with the most common options being 20-foot or 40-foot containers. These containers are typically 8 ft 6 in tall, but high cube shipping containers offer an additional foot of height.

Can you put a shipping container pool in the ground?

Yes, it is possible to put a shipping container pool in the ground, although it is originally intended to be an above-ground pool. If the site has a slope, the pool can be partially placed in the ground through a process of cutting and filling. However, it is important to note that a retaining wall or an exterior wall must be constructed around the pool to ensure that it does not come into contact with the soil.

How long will shipping containers last?

Shipping containers can last for an average of 25 years, and their durability extends beyond their use on cargo ships. With proper maintenance, these freight containers can even remain functional for approximately 35-40 years.

Can you sink a container pool?

The statement: “Can you sink a container pool?” Rephrased answer: Yes, a container pool can be either sunk into the ground or placed above ground in your backyard, offering a distinctive and visually appealing oasis. By utilizing a shipping container as the pool’s structure, you have the flexibility to choose the installation method that best suits your landscape.