How to Add a Pool Slide to an Existing Pool Without Breaking the Bank

A pool slide is hands down one of the best upgrades you can add to your backyard. Whether it’s for kids who love the thrill or adults who still appreciate a good splash, a slide turns an ordinary pool into an entertainment hotspot. But if you already have a pool, installing a slide might seem expensive or complicated. The good news? It doesn’t have to be.

I’ve seen a few friends go through this process, and trust me, some did it the smart way, and others… well, let’s just say they spent way more money than they needed to. If you’re looking to add a pool slide without draining your wallet, here’s how to do it right.

Choose the Right Slide for Your Pool

Not every slide works for every pool. Before you even think about buying one, you need to consider the depth, shape, and available deck space. Some slides require a deeper landing area to be safe, while others work just fine with smaller pools.

A friend of mine once bought a slide without checking if his pool met the depth requirements. He ended up having to return it and get a different one, which was a hassle (and shipping on pool slides isn’t cheap). Lesson learned. Always double-check before buying.

If you’re unsure which type of slide works best, go for a freestanding one that doesn’t need to be permanently mounted. These are usually cheaper and easier to install.

Look for Affordable Options

Brand-new fiberglass slides can get pricey, but that doesn’t mean you have to pay top dollar. There are a few ways to cut costs:

• Buy secondhand – People upgrade their slides all the time, and you can often find great deals on local marketplaces. Just inspect it first to make sure there are no cracks or major wear.
• Wait for off-season sales – Pool equipment tends to go on sale toward the end of summer. If you plan ahead, you can snag a high-quality slide at a discount.
• Consider plastic slides – While fiberglass slides last longer, plastic ones are much cheaper and still provide a ton of fun. As long as you take care of them, they can last for years.

One of my neighbors got a used slide for half the price just because the original owner was redoing their pool. All it needed was a good cleaning, and now their backyard is the go-to summer spot.

DIY Installation: Can You Do It Yourself?

If you’re handy with tools, installing a pool slide yourself can save you a good chunk of money. Many plastic slides come with step-by-step instructions and only require basic tools. If you have a solid concrete deck, you’ll need to drill into it to secure the slide, but it’s doable if you take your time.

That said, bigger slides, especially fiberglass ones, can be tricky. They often need precise anchoring, and if you don’t install them correctly, they can wobble or become unsafe. If you’re unsure about drilling into your pool deck or setting up the water flow system, it might be worth getting professional help.

When to Call in the Pros

If your slide is large, requires extensive anchoring, or needs a water line for a built-in sprayer, hiring a professional is a smart move. A poorly installed slide can be a safety hazard, and the last thing you want is someone getting hurt because it wasn’t secured properly.

A guy I know tried to install his fiberglass slide by himself, and halfway through, he realized he needed special bolts that didn’t come with the kit. Instead of calling a pro, he tried to make it work with whatever he had. Long story short, the slide wobbled after every use, and he had to pay extra to have someone come fix it later.

The cost of professional installation varies depending on the complexity, but it’s usually around $500 to $2,000. While that’s not cheap, it’s a lot better than paying to repair a bad install.

Final Touches to Keep Costs Low

Once your pool slide is installed, keeping it in good shape helps you avoid expensive repairs. Here are a few easy maintenance tips:

• Hose it down regularly to prevent dirt and grime buildup.
• Check the bolts and anchors every few months to make sure everything stays secure.
• Use a slide cover when it’s not in use to protect it from sun damage and wear.

These little things help extend the life of your slide, so you won’t have to replace it anytime soon.

Is Adding a Pool Slide Worth It?

Absolutely. A pool slide takes your backyard from “nice” to “next level,” and if you do it right, you won’t have to spend a fortune. Whether you go the DIY route or bring in a pro, the key is planning ahead and choosing the right slide for your pool.

If you’ve added a slide to your pool, what was your experience like? Did you install it yourself, or did you get help? Share your thoughts in the comments. I’d love to hear what worked (and what didn’t)!