Pros And Cons To Different Types Of Swimming Pools

There are a few choices on the market when it comes to pools, and it can seem a little overwhelming at first when deciding which one to choose. We have put this article together to highlight the pros and cons of different types of swimming pools available to help you make an informed decision about whether a fiberglass pool, a concrete pool, or a vinyl liner pool is best for you.

There are three main types of pool, and you’ll need to familiarize yourself with these three types and the pros and cons of each one, and you need to know before buying an in-ground pool.

• Advantages Of Fiberglass Pools

Low Maintenance

The great thing about fiberglass pools is how low maintenance they are. Much of this has to do with the porosity of the pool’s interior gelcoat surface; it is non-porous and makes it virtually bacteria and algae resistant. This means less time and money spent on keeping the pool clean. In fact, fiberglass pool owners generally spend 75% less time and money looking after their pool than the vinyl liner and concrete pool owners do.

Fast Installation

Fiberglass pool shells are manufactured off-site. Once delivered, the installation process takes around seven days to complete.

Strength And Durability

Fiberglass pools are robust and durable. They flex to accommodate earth movements and are resistant to cracks and punctures.

Modern Designs

Over the year’s fiberglass pools have transformed thousands of standard-looking backyards into luxurious statement pieces. They boast modern, sleek lines that are stylish and timeless. Advanced technology allows fiberglass pools to have stunning colored gel coat finishes, tanning edges, and steps, all of which add to the pool’s overall aesthetics.

Compatible With A Salt Chlorinator

Salt chlorinators are a popular choice among pool owners. Saltwater is gentler on the skin and doesn’t have the strong smell that chlorine pools are notorious for. Fiberglass pools are highly compatible with salt water as it has no adverse effects on the shell. Salt is not advised for concrete and vinyl liner pools. Salt tends to be five times more abrasive than chlorine on the surface of concrete pools, and vinyl liner pools are built with metal and aluminum coping around the pool. Saltwater erodes it, and this compromises the structure of the pool.

Adding Value To Your Home

If you decide to sell, you want to be sure the pool you have chosen appeals to as many buyers as possible. Buyers are looking for something that not only looks great but is durable, cost-effective, and easy to maintain. A fiberglass pool is all of these things; they require the least amount of time, money, and effort to maintain.

They Can Accommodate Virtually Any Backyard

Whether you have a sloping block, limited access, or require your pool to be above ground, a fiberglass pool can be built to accommodate nearly any size.

• Disadvantages Of Fibreglass Pools

The Initial Outlay For A Fibreglass Pool Is Higher Than A Vinyl Liner Pool

It costs more to install a fiberglass pool than a vinyl liner pool; however, the lining of a vinyl liner pool needs to be replaced every 5 to 10 years, which works out to be far more costly over the lifetime of the pool. Fiberglass never needs replacing.

You Cannot Customise The Size And Design Of A Fibreglass Pool

A disadvantage to a fiberglass pool is you can’t customize the size or design of your pool. Most reputable fiberglass pool companies have an expansive selection of pools to choose from, so it is unlikely you won’t find something you love.

• Advantages Of Concrete Pools

You Can Customise The Shape And Design

The best thing about concretes pools is you can customize them in any shape or design you like. This is good for people wanting a very deep pool or a particular shape.

Durable

Concrete pools are extremely durable, and the surface should last around ten years before it needs resurfacing.

• Disadvantages Of A Concrete Pool

They Require A Lot More Maintenance

The surface of a concrete pool is extremely porous, making it the perfect breeding ground for algae and bacteria. Concrete pools are prone to algae infestations, which can be difficult to get rid of. Most concrete pool builders recommend brushing the interior surface of the pool weekly to prevent this from happening.

They Require More Chemicals To Keep Them Clean

Water chemistry can be an issue for concrete pools. As mentioned above, concrete pools are porous, making them susceptible to algae and bacteria; this results in higher doses of chemicals been used more frequently to combat the issue. As concrete is alkaline-based, it can also throw off the pH levels of your pool water. Put, the more chemicals you have to use, the more money it will cost.

Not Suitable For Salt Chlorinators

You could use salt water in a concrete pool; however, it isn’t advised as the dissolved salt compromises the interior surface. This means you will have to get it resurfaced more frequently than normally needed, which will cost a pretty penny.

High Upfront And Ongoing Costs

Concrete pools are the most expensive pools on the market to install and maintain. Installation averages around $50,000, but it can be anywhere up to $100,000, depending on what you want. They require far more upkeep than fiberglass or vinyl liner pools. They require more chemicals and electricity to keep them clean. They need acid washing every 3 to 5 years and resurfacing every ten years, which is around $10,000.

Lengthy Installation Time

Vinyl liner and fiberglass pools can be installed in less than a couple of weeks; concrete pools tend to take longer with the average pool build, taking around 3 to 6 months to complete.

• Advantages Of A Vinyl Liner Pool

Vinyl liner pools are the cheapest to install. This appeals to many people as other types of pools may not fit into their budget.

You Can Customise The Shape

Most vinyl liner pools come in a rectangular shape; however, you do have the option to customize the shape, depth, and size of your vinyl liner pool for an additional cost.

• Disadvantages Of A Vinyl Liner Pool

The biggest downfall to vinyl liner pools is the cost involved with replacing the vinyl liner every 5 to 10 years. The average cost of a vinyl liner replacement is around $4,000.

Damage To Vinyl Liner

Another negative to vinyl liner pools is the liner is not super durable like concrete and fiberglass pools. They are susceptible to punctures from dogs getting into the pool, branches falling into the pool, etc.

Some Areas Of Vinyl Liner Pools Are Prone Algae Growth

The liner of a vinyl liner pool is relatively non-porous. However, places such as the seams and the pool ladder are vulnerable to ‘dead spots,’ which means the water isn’t fully circulated in these areas and are more likely to have bacteria and algae growth.

Weighing Up The Pros And Cons

Fiberglass pools cost more to install initially than vinyl liner pools but don’t require constant replacing as the liners do. Concrete is an excellent option if you are looking for a particular design that you cannot find in fiberglass; however, they are expensive to maintain and require far more work than the other two. When it comes to finding a pool that is the least effort and cost to maintain, a fiberglass pool is a front runner.

They are easy to look after, quick to install, and the most cost-effective option on the market today. We hope this article has given you an understanding of the pros and cons of the different pool types available. If you require any further information regarding which pool option is best for you, give our experienced team here at The Fibreglass Pool Company a call, we are more than happy to help!