Tiled vs Standard Container Pools — is the Upgrade Worth It?

So you've decided on a container pool — smart move. Now comes the next question: standard finish or tiled? The price difference isn't huge ($3,000 on a 20ft, $2,000 on a 40ft), but it's still worth understanding what you're getting before you decide.

Let's break it down.

STANDARD FINISH — WHAT YOU GET

Our standard container pools come with a professional-grade interior coating — typically a marine-grade fibreglass or polyurethane liner. This finish is:

Durable: Designed to withstand constant water contact, UV exposure, and pool chemicals. A well-maintained standard finish will last many years before needing attention.

Smooth: The surface is smooth to the touch — comfortable for swimming and not rough on skin.

Waterproof: Obviously. The entire point of the finish is to create a watertight interior that won't leak or degrade.

Easy to maintain: Regular pool maintenance (balanced chemicals, occasional scrub) keeps it looking good.

Available in various colours: Depending on the manufacturer, you may be able to choose from a range of blues, greys, and other pool-appropriate colours.

The standard finish at $36,000 (20ft) or $53,000 (40ft) gives you a complete, ready-to-swim pool that looks great and performs well.

TILED FINISH — WHAT THE UPGRADE GETS YOU

The tiled finish replaces the standard coating with proper pool tiles throughout the interior. This means:

Premium appearance: There's no getting around it — a tiled pool looks like a high-end pool. The tiles catch the light, the grout lines add texture, and the overall impression is of a quality installation. If your pool is a feature of your outdoor entertaining area, tiles make a visual difference.

Easier long-term cleaning: Tiles are extremely smooth and non-porous. Algae has a harder time getting a foothold on a tiled surface compared to most coatings. A quick brush and the surface comes up clean.

Better longevity: The tile surface itself is essentially permanent — tiles don't degrade from water contact or UV. The grout may need attention after 10-15 years, but the tiles will look the same in 20 years as they do on day one.

Traditional pool feel: If you've swum in traditional pools all your life, tiles feel "right" underfoot. It's a tactile thing that some people really value.

Increased property value: A tiled pool is perceived as a higher-end installation, which can add value if you're selling the property or listing it as an Airbnb/farm stay.

THE COST DIFFERENCE

20ft standard: $36,000 → 20ft tiled: $39,000 (difference: $3,000)

40ft standard: $53,000 → 40ft tiled: $55,000 (difference: $2,000)

As a percentage of the total cost, the tiled upgrade is 8.3% more on a 20ft and just 3.8% more on a 40ft. On the 40ft especially, it's a relatively small premium for a significant upgrade in finish quality.

WHO SHOULD CHOOSE STANDARD?

• Budget-conscious buyers who want a pool without the premium cost
• Properties where the pool won't be a visible feature (tucked behind a shed, for example)
• Temporary installations or properties you may leave within a few years
• Anyone who's happy with a good, functional pool that does the job

There is absolutely nothing wrong with the standard finish. It's a quality product that provides years of enjoyment.

WHO SHOULD CHOOSE TILED?

• Airbnb and farm stay operators (the pool photos in your listing will look noticeably better)
• Homeowners who are investing in their forever property
• Outdoor entertaining enthusiasts who want the pool to be a centrepiece
• Anyone who values the long-term, low-maintenance benefits of tiles
• Buyers of the 40ft pool (the percentage premium is smallest on this option)

OUR HONEST OPINION

If you're buying a 40ft pool as a long-term installation on a property you plan to keep, spend the extra $2,000 on tiles. It's less than 4% of the total cost and you'll appreciate it every time you look at the pool. On the 20ft, it's a closer call — the $3,000 premium is a bigger percentage, so it comes down to personal preference and budget.

Either way, you're getting a quality container pool that's ready to swim in. We're happy to show you examples of both finishes — come into Outback Fencing Supplies at 76 Astill Drive, Orange, or call 0434 093 077 to discuss your options.

Making the Right Choice for Your Property

The decision between standard and tiled finishes often comes down to your long-term plans and how you'll use the pool. If this is your forever home and the pool will be a central feature of your outdoor living space, the tiled upgrade generally pays for itself in both enjoyment and property value. The visual impact when entertaining guests is noticeable, and the reduced maintenance over time makes the initial investment worthwhile.

For investment properties or situations where you're prioritising budget, the standard finish delivers excellent value. Remember, you're still getting a professional-grade coating that will provide years of reliable service with proper maintenance.

Consider your local climate too. In Orange's variable weather conditions, both finishes handle temperature fluctuations well, but the tile's superior durability gives extra peace of mind during those harsh winter months when the pool might sit unused for extended periods.

Installation timeframes are similar for both options, though tiled pools may require an extra day or two for the tiling work to be completed properly. Both finishes integrate well with standard pool equipment, heating systems, and safety features.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I upgrade to tiles later if I choose the standard finish now?

While technically possible, retrofitting tiles to an existing container pool is considerably more expensive and disruptive than choosing the tiled option upfront. You'd need to remove the existing finish, prepare the surface, and install tiles — often costing more than the original upgrade price. It's generally more cost-effective to choose tiles during initial installation if you're considering them.

How much extra maintenance do tiles require compared to standard finish?

Tiles actually require less routine maintenance than standard finishes. The smooth, non-porous surface resists algae growth and cleans more easily. However, grout lines may need occasional attention (resealing every few years), and individual tiles can be replaced if damaged. Overall maintenance time is typically reduced with tiles.

Do tiled container pools add more value to my property?

Yes, tiled pools generally add more to property value than standard finish pools. The premium appearance and perceived quality of a tiled pool appeals to potential buyers and often justifies a higher asking price. While the exact value increase depends on your local market, the tiled upgrade typically recovers its cost when selling.

Use our free fencing calculator to estimate your project, or give Jess a call on 0434 093 077 for expert advice.