An excellent middle ground between a fully in-ground pool and an above-ground pool, the semi-inground pool features one part buried in the ground and one part visible above it. Available in wood, metal, and concrete, each material brings its own set of benefits.
The concrete semi-inground pool in particular offers a host of advantages when chosen carefully. Here's why it might be the right choice for your backyard — and what to look for when selecting one.
The Benefits of a Concrete Semi-Inground Pool
Closely resembling a fully in-ground pool in look and feel, the concrete semi-inground pool has several real strengths. Unlike a wooden semi-inground pool or a fiberglass shell pool, concrete is extremely solid and robust. It offers superior comfort and lasts longer — with an impressive lifespan.
Beyond durability, a concrete semi-inground pool enhances the overall look of your outdoor space and adapts to all terrain types. It's also highly customizable — you can build the pool of your dreams, whether that's a classic concrete shell pool or even an infinity pool. Low maintenance and full of character, it's a genuine long-term investment in your property.
That said, concrete does come with some limitations. Once installed, it cannot be moved or dismantled. Major construction work is required — excavation, concrete pouring — and professional installation is essential.
How to Choose Your Concrete Semi-Inground Pool
Here are the key criteria to guide your decision.
Dimensions
Concrete semi-inground pools work well in small urban backyards as well as larger spaces. A standard pool typically ranges from 20–26 ft in length and 10–16 ft in width. If you have the space and want to swim laps, a lap pool configuration of 40 ft or more is also an option.
Always consult a professional to help determine the ideal dimensions based on your terrain, preferences, and budget.
Shape
The most common shape for a concrete semi-inground pool is rectangular — the simplest to build. But concrete's versatility means you can also go for a free-form design with rounded sides, a wave shape, or any of the following:
- Square,
- Round,
- Oval,
- Kidney, etc.
Budget
Costs vary based on pool size, installation work, and the accessories you choose — including cladding and finishing options. Always get detailed quotes from multiple professionals to get an accurate picture of your project's total cost.
Building a Concrete Semi-Inground Pool
Building a concrete semi-inground pool involves several clear steps — starting with the necessary administrative procedures.
As a general guide:
- Pools under a certain size with visible walls under 24 inches: a prior works declaration is typically required.
- Larger pools or those with taller visible walls or a fixed enclosure over 6 ft: a full building permit is needed.
Always verify local planning rules before starting.
Construction Techniques
Construction starts with ground preparation. A concrete semi-inground pool is often built on sloped terrain. Clear the site of all vegetation and obstacles, stabilize the ground, mark out the excavation limits, then dig the basin and pour the concrete slab. Once the slab is set, connect the pool to the filtration system — including all necessary pipes.
Finishing Touches
Once the pool is built, it's time for the finishing touches. A pool deck directly adjacent to the pool is the ideal starting point — seamlessly connecting your swimming area to the rest of your backyard.
Consider adding a pool house to house the technical equipment, a summer kitchen, or a spa. An outdoor pool shower is another great addition. With the right finishes and accessories, your concrete semi-inground pool can become the ultimate backyard retreat.
We hope this guide has given you everything you need to make an informed decision and get your concrete semi-inground pool project off to the right start!
FAQ: Semi-Inground Concrete Pool
What are the advantages of a semi-inground concrete pool?
A semi-inground concrete pool offers: maximum durability (30–50 years), great freedom of shape and size, excellent resistance to shifting ground, better thermal insulation than metal structures, and full customisation of the lining (tiles, liner, epoxy paint). It is the most durable but also the most expensive solution (from €15,000).
Can I build a semi-inground concrete pool myself?
Gunite (sprayed concrete) pool construction requires professionals for key steps: formwork, steel reinforcement, concrete spraying, waterproofing treatment. Experienced DIYers can carry out excavation, plumbing (jets, skimmer), and finishing work. Using a pool professional for the main structure and finishing the surrounds yourself is a common approach.
What is the difference between sprayed concrete and poured concrete for a pool?
Sprayed concrete (gunite or shotcrete) is projected at high pressure onto metal reinforcement, creating a very dense and watertight shell. Poured concrete (in formwork) is more traditional and affordable but requires careful formwork. Sprayed concrete is the standard for free-form pools. Poured concrete is better suited to simple rectangular shapes.
What lining should I choose for a semi-inground concrete pool?
For a concrete pool, the possible linings are: a liner (most affordable, lasts 10–15 years), glazed tiles (most aesthetic, very durable), white or coloured pool render (affordable, requires renovation every 7–10 years), or reinforced membrane (between liner and tiles). Mosaic tiles are the premium choice for high-end pools.
How long does it take to build a semi-inground concrete pool?
Building a gunite pool typically takes 4–8 weeks in total: excavation (1–3 days), reinforcement and pour (1–3 days), concrete curing (3–4 weeks), waterproofing (1–2 days), finishing and lining (3–7 days depending on choice). Plumbing and equipment can be installed in parallel with some stages.
