Precast VS Custom Plunge Pool – What’s the difference?

Plunge Pools Sydney offers both precast and custom options, helping homeowners find the ideal solution for their property and preferences.

This article compares the benefits, costs, and installation methods of each type, giving you the information needed to choose the best plunge pool for your home.

Precast Plunge Pools

Precast plunge pools are pre-manufactured in a factory setting, offering a streamlined solution for homeowners seeking a quick and relatively affordable pool installation. These precast concrete plunge pools come in limited sizes and shapes, with installation typically completed in just 1-3 weeks.

Key characteristics

• Pre-manufactured in a factory
• Available in limited sizes and shapes
• Quick installation, typically within 1–3 weeks

Advantages

• Faster Installation: Precast pools are delivered ready-made, making installation swift and convenient.
• More Affordable: Due to controlled manufacturing, these pools generally cost less than custom builds.
• Consistent Quality: Factory production ensures a high level of quality and uniformity.

Limitations

• Limited Customization: Precast options are limited in shape and size compared to custom pools.
• Size Restrictions: Precast pools may not be ideal for every space, especially irregular ones.
• Site Access Challenges: Delivering a precast pool may require a crane, which can be challenging in certain areas.

Custom Plunge Pools

Custom plunge pools are built on-site, allowing for complete customisation in terms of size, shape, and features. While the installation process is longer, taking several weeks, these custom concrete pools offer unparalleled flexibility in design.

 Key characteristics

• Built on-site
• Fully customisable in size, shape, and features
• Longer installation time, often taking several weeks

According to the Master Pool Builders Association Australia (MPBAA), custom plunge pools offer unparalleled flexibility in design, allowing homeowners to tailor the pool to their specific needs and property constraints.

Advantages

• Full Customization: Custom pools allow you to design flexibility according to your unique style, space, and needs.
• Fits Unique Spaces: Ideal for challenging or irregular landscapes.
• Special Features: Incorporate spas, waterfalls, or other special elements into the design.

• Special Features: Incorporate spas, waterfalls, or other special elements into the design.

“We had a really narrow courtyard and weren’t sure a pool would even fit,” recalls Julie M. from Dover Heights. “A custom plunge pool let us use every inch effectively—and we added a spa bench, too.“

Limitations

• Longer construction time
• Weather-dependent construction process.

 Comparison of Installation Processes

Precast pool installation is a relatively quick process, often entire process is completed within a few days to weeks. The site is prepared, the pool is delivered and placed using a crane, and then connected to the necessary systems.

Custom pool construction, on the other hand, involves a more lengthy process. It starts with excavation, followed by forming and pouring concrete. After a curing period, the pool is finished, and systems are installed.

Case Study Comparison:

• The Lee family in Inner West installed a precast plunge pool within 48 hours. “We were hosting an event in a week, and it was ready just in time,” says Mr. Lee.
• In contrast, the Jones in Kogarah opted for a custom plunge pool with an integrated waterfall and mosaic tiling. “It took nearly 8 weeks, but it fits our sloped backyard perfectly and feels like a resort,” shares Mr. Jones.

Pool Cost Considerations Comparison

While precast pools often have lower initial costs due to standardised manufacturing and quicker installation, custom pools allow for more control over long-term maintenance and future renovations.

Cost Estimates

• Precast Plunge Pools: Typically overall cost ranges from $40,000 to $60,000, depending on size and features.
• Custom Plunge Pools: Can range from $50,000 to $100,000 or more, based on design complexity and materials used.

Design and Aesthetics Precast VS Custom Pools

Precast pools offer a range of standard shapes and sizes, with limited customisation options. Custom pools, however, provide unlimited design possibilities and can be perfectly integrated with your existing landscape and architecture.

Durability and Longevity

Understanding the durability and longevity of both precast and custom plunge pools is essential in deciding which option is best for your outdoor space. Here’s a detailed table comparing their durability factors.

Suitability for Different Properties

When choosing between precast and custom plunge pools, consider:

• Space considerations: Precast pools may be ideal for standard-sized yards, while custom pools can fit uniquely shaped spaces.
• Soil and terrain factors: Custom pools can be designed to accommodate challenging soil conditions or sloped terrain.
• Local regulations and permits: Both types must comply with local building codes, but custom pools may offer more flexibility in meeting specific requirements.

Lessons from the Field: Building a Custom Pool on a Slope

When we helped the Jones Family in Kogarah to install a custom plunge pool, their backyard had a 20-degree slope with dense clay soil. The challenges included soil retention, drainage rerouting, and access for concrete trucks.

What we learned:

• Soil testing is critical early on. It saved time and prevented structural issues later.
• Modular formwork helped adapt to tight access.
• Drainage planning was as important as the pool design itself.

This project taught us that difficult terrain doesn’t rule out custom pools—it just demands smarter planning and more experienced installers.

What Most Pool Quotes Don’t Include (But Should)

On the surface, a pool quote can seem clear-cut: shell, installation, a few fittings, done. But as any experienced pool owner will tell you, the real costs often lie just beneath. It’s not deception—it’s omission. Many quotes assume an ideal site and forget that most backyards aren’t textbook-perfect.

Here’s what often gets left out—but matters deeply to the final price and your long-term satisfaction:

• Council approvals and permits
  Local councils have different requirements, and the approval process can take weeks. This cost is usually separate—and occasionally unexpected.
• Site access and crane hire
  Got a narrow laneway or no side access? You’ll likely need a crane. Precast pools especially can’t go in without one, and crane hire isn’t cheap.
• Soil testing and engineering reports
  Sloped blocks or clay-heavy soil can mean trouble if not accounted for early. A geotechnical report can prevent costly delays, but it’s rarely included upfront.
• Backfilling and retaining structures
  Building on a slope? You may need engineered retaining walls or significant soil prep. These aren’t standard in most quotes but are often non-negotiable on challenging sites.
• Landscaping and restoration
  A pool project often ends with a churned-up yard. Pool companies may not cover turf replacement, fencing, or new decking unless specifically quoted.
• Safety barriers and compliance gear
  Fencing, gate latches, and even pool covers—these are required by Australian law but often appear as post-quote extras.
• Ongoing maintenance essentials
  Things like robotic cleaners, blankets, or chemical feeders are typically not bundled in but are essential for keeping the pool usable—and safe.

Tip: Ask for a site-specific comprehensive quote—one that considers access, slope, approvals, and your backyard’s quirks. A cheaper upfront quote often means someone’s not telling the whole story.

Decision-Making Factors

Budget Constraints

For those with a stricter budget, a precast plunge pool may be the ideal choice, given its affordability. Custom pools, while offering endless design possibilities, do come with a higher price tag.

Installation Timeline

If a quick installation is important, a precast pool is the clear winner, with a typical setup time of just a few days. Custom pools, on the other hand, may require weeks of construction.

Desired Customisation Level

If you’re seeking a pool that complements a unique space or includes features like a spa or waterfall, a custom plunge pool will better suit your needs.

Property Characteristics

Take into account your property’s layout and landscape, as this may impact the feasibility of both pool types.

Maintenance Requirements

Maintenance is a crucial aspect of owning a plunge pool, regardless of whether it’s precast or custom. The following table outlines the key maintenance requirements for both types:

Both precast and custom plunge pools require regular maintenance to ensure longevity and optimal performance. While the basic maintenance tasks are similar for both types, custom pools with additional features may require more specialised care.

It’s important to note that proper maintenance not only keeps your pool looking great but also ensures the safety and health of swimmers. Regular upkeep can also prevent costly repairs in the long run, regardless of the pool type you choose.

Energy Efficiency

Both precast and custom plunge pools can be energy-efficient, but custom pools may offer more options for incorporating energy-saving features:

• Precast Pools: Often come with energy-efficient pumps and filters.
• Custom Pools: Allow for integration of solar heating, variable-speed pumps, and automated cleaning systems.

Water Features and Accessories

When it comes to enhancing your plunge pool with water features and accessories, the options available can vary significantly between precast and custom pools. The following table outlines the key differences:

Environmental Considerations

• Water Usage: Both types can be designed with water conservation in mind. Custom pools may offer more flexibility in size to reduce water consumption.
• Chemical Use: Modern pool systems for both types can minimise chemical usage through salt chlorination or other eco-friendly methods.
• Energy Consumption: Custom pools may have an edge in energy efficiency due to tailored designs and equipment selection.

Pool Safety

Regardless of the type of plunge pool, safety is paramount:

• Both types should comply with local safety regulations
• Install proper fencing and self-closing gates
• Consider non-slip surfaces around the pool area
• Incorporate safety covers when the pool is not in use

According to NSW Fair Trading, all swimming pools in New South Wales must have a child-resistant safety barrier that complies with the relevant Australian Standards, such as AS 1926.1-2012.

Conclusion

Choosing between a precast and custom plunge pool depends on your specific needs, budget, and property characteristics. Precast pools offer quick installation and consistent quality, while custom pools provide unlimited design possibilities and the ability to perfectly fit your space. Consider all factors carefully to make the best decision for your Sydney home.

For comprehensive guidelines on pool and spa standards, the Swimming Pool & Spa Association of Australia (SPASA) provides updated resources to ensure compliance and safety.

“We looked at both options and ultimately chose custom because it aligned with our long-term vision for the home,” says homeowner Lily. “The extra time and cost were worth it.”

After learning the difference between precast and custom plunge pools, you could decide which type of plunge pool you want by reading this article about inground vs. above ground: Which plunge pools are easier to install.

People Also Ask

How long does it take to install a precast plunge pool compared to a custom one?

Precast pools typically take 1-2 days to install, while custom pools can take several weeks to months.

Are precast plunge pools less durable than custom pools?

Both can be equally durable when properly maintained. The durability depends more on materials and construction quality than the type of pool.

Can I customise a precast plunge pool?

While customisation options are limited, some manufacturers offer choices in colour, finish, and add-on features.

How do I decide which type of plunge pool is best for my property?

Consider your budget, desired features, property layout, and timeline. Consult with pool professionals to assess your specific situation.

Are there any specific maintenance requirements for precast vs custom plunge pools?

Basic maintenance is similar for both types, but custom pools with special features may require additional upkeep.