Precast Plunge Pool Sizes for Small and Narrow Backyards

At Plunge Pools Newcastle, we have spent years helping local families find the right fit for their homes. We know that every backyard in Newcastle is different, from flat blocks to sloping sites. We use our experience to make sure the pool you choose fits perfectly and meets all the local council rules.

In this article, we will explain the different sizes available for precast plunge pools. We will look at the exact measurements you need to know, how deep these pools are, and how to pick the best size for your space.

Common Precast Plunge Pool Sizes and Shapes

When you start looking for a pool, you will see that precast plunge pools come in three main shapes. Because these pools are made in a factory using a set mould, the sizes are standard. This is actually a good thing because it makes planning much easier.

Here are the most common sizes we see:

• Round Pools: These are very popular for small backyards. They usually start at 2.5 metres in diameter and go up to 3.5 metres. A round pool is great for sitting and relaxing with friends.
• Square Pools: These fit well in the corner of a yard or near a deck. Common sizes are 2 metres by 2 metres or 2.5 metres by 2.5 metres. They look very modern and neat.
• Rectangular Pools: If you have a bit more room, a rectangle is a great choice. These usually start at about 3 metres long and go up to 6 metres. A 4.8-metre or 5-metre pool is a very common choice for families in Newcastle.

We find that most homeowners choose a size based on how many people will use the pool at once. A smaller 2.5-metre pool is perfect for two or three people, while a 5-metre or 6-metre pool gives the kids more room to play.

Quick Reference: Standard Precast Plunge Pool Sizes

Note: The weights listed above are for the concrete shell only. When we plan your installation, we use these numbers to ensure we get the right crane for the job.

Why External Dimensions are the Most Important Number

When you are looking at pool sizes, you will see two sets of numbers: internal and external. It is very important to look at the external dimensions when you are planning your backyard.

A precast pool is made of thick, reinforced concrete. Usually, these walls are about 100mm to 150mm thick. This means if a pool is 4 metres wide on the inside, it might actually be 4.3 metres wide on the outside.

Pro Tip: When measuring your yard, always add at least 300mm to the advertised internal width of a pool. This accounts for the concrete walls on both sides and the external plumbing pipes that run along the outside of the shell.

Here is why those extra centimetres matter:

• Council Rules: In Newcastle, the waterline of your pool usually needs to be at least 900mm to 1 metre away from your boundary fence. However, the concrete shell itself also needs to fit within your building envelope. We always check these distances to make sure your pool is legal.
• Fitting into Tight Spaces: If you have a narrow side yard that is 3 metres wide, a pool with a 2.5-metre external width will fit, but a 3-metre wide shell will not. We need to leave room for the pool fence and a walkway.
• The Big Lift: Precast pools are heavy. A standard 4.6-metre pool can weigh about 8,000kg to 9,000kg. The larger the external size, the heavier the pool. This tells us what size crane we need to use to lift the pool over your house and into the backyard.

We always recommend looking at your site plan first. If you know exactly how much space you have between your house and the fence, we can tell you which external shell size will fit comfortably.

Understanding Pool Depth and Water Volume

When we talk about the size of a pool, we aren’t just talking about the length and width. We also need to think about how deep the pool is and how much water it holds.

Most precast concrete plunge pools have a standard depth of about 1.5 metres to 1.7 metres. We find this is the sweet spot for most Newcastle families. It is deep enough for an adult to stand comfortably with the water at chest height, but it isn’t so deep that it becomes difficult to maintain.

Knowing the depth helps us figure out the water volume, which is measured in litres. Here is why the volume matters:

• The Right Equipment: A pool that holds 10,000 litres needs a different pump and filter than a pool that holds 20,000 litres. We make sure your equipment is sized correctly so your water stays clean and clear.
• Running Costs: Generally, a smaller pool volume means you will spend less money on salt, chemicals, and electricity for the pump.
• Heating: if you want to use your pool in the winter, a smaller volume of water is much faster and cheaper to heat up with a heat pump.

Most of our popular rectangular sizes hold between 10,000 and 15,000 litres. This is a great size because it gives you plenty of water to cool off in without being a huge chore to look after.

How to Pick the Right Size for Your Yard

Choosing a pool size is a big decision. We always tell our customers that it is better to measure twice and dig once. To find the right fit, we suggest following these three steps.

Step 1: Check Your Site Plan: Before you fall in love with a specific size, look at your property’s site plan. You need to look for easements. These are areas where underground sewer or storm-water pipes are buried. Usually, you cannot build a heavy concrete pool directly over these pipes. Knowing where they are will tell you exactly how much free space you have left for a pool.

Step 2: Think About How You Will Use It: Be honest about how you plan to spend your time in the water.

• If you just want to cool off with a drink after work, a small 2.5-metre round pool is plenty.
• If you have two or three kids who love to splash around, you will probably be happier with a 4-metre or 5-metre rectangular pool.
• If you want to sit and chat, look for a size that has a bench seat built into the mould.

Step 3: Leave Room for the Dry Areas: A pool takes up space, but you also need room to walk around it. You need to account for:

• Pool Fencing: You must have a legal fence, and this takes up room.
• Landscaping: Do you want a deck, some paving, or maybe a garden bed next to the pool?
• Maintenance Access: You need enough space to walk around with a leaf skimmer or to get to your pump equipment.

At Plunge Pools Newcastle, we like to look at the whole backyard, not just the hole in the ground. We can help you map out these distances to make sure the pool size you choose doesn’t make your yard feel cramped.

Conclusion

There is a precast plunge pool size for almost every backyard in Newcastle. Whether you have a small courtyard or a large open space, these pools offer a practical and high-quality way to add value to your home and lifestyle. The key is to look at the external measurements and plan your space carefully before you start.

At Plunge Pools Newcastle, we are here to help you through this process. We don’t just build the pool; we help you understand the technical details, from council setbacks to crane access. We want to make sure the pool you choose is the one you will enjoy using every single day.

If you are ready to see what size fits in your yard, reach out to us at Plunge Pools Newcastle. We can take a look at your site plan or a photo of your backyard and give you our professional recommendation on the best size for your space.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change the size of a precast pool?

Because precast pools are made in a set mould at a factory, we cannot change the length, width, or depth. This is why it is so important to measure your yard carefully before choosing a model. If you need a very specific size that isn’t in our standard range, we can talk to you about a custom-built concrete pool instead.

Do I need a fence for a small plunge pool?

Yes. In New South Wales, any pool that can hold more than 300mm of water must have a council-approved safety fence. This includes even the smallest plunge pools. We can help you understand the fencing rules for Newcastle to make sure your pool area is safe and legal.

How long does it take to install a precast pool?

The best part about precast pools is the speed. Once your council paperwork is approved and the site is dug out, the pool shell can often be craned in and connected in just a few days. Most families are ready to swim within 2 to 4 weeks of the pool arriving on-site.

Can these pools be installed above ground?

Yes, they can. Because precast concrete shells are very strong and self-supporting, they can sit fully in-ground, partially above ground, or completely on top of the ground. This is a great option for Newcastle homes with sloping blocks where digging a deep hole might be too expensive.

Will a crane fit in my street?

This is a common worry. We have a lot of experience with Newcastle’s narrow streets and leafy suburbs. We usually perform a site check to see where a crane can park and how far it needs to reach. Most of the time, we can find a way to get the pool safely into your backyard.