Which Type of Pool is The Best Option for You?

Here are the 3 types of swimming pools and their pros and cons.

When it comes to building a pool, there are three different options to consider which include: gunite, vinyl liner, and fiberglass pools. Each type has its own set of pros and cons, and the right choice for you will depend on your specific needs, preferences, and budget.

1. Gunite / Shotcrete Swimming Pools

Gunite pools are made of a mixture of cement and sand that is sprayed onto a rebar frame to form the pool walls. This creates a strong and durable pool that can be customized to any shape or size. One of the main benefits of gunite pools is their versatility and ability to be molded into any design. They also have a long lifespan and can last for decades with proper maintenance. However, they can be more expensive to install and repair.

2. Vinyl Liner Swimming Pools

Vinyl liner pools are made of a flexible liner that is placed over a metal or polymer frame. These pools are relatively inexpensive to install and can be a good choice for homeowners on a budget if the conditions are right for one. Vinyl liner pools do have a lot more flexibility with customization than Fiberglass pools but the customization can be limited. They are relatively low maintenance for the most part as long as the liner stays in good condition, but you will need to change the liner about every 6 to 10 years at a cost of about $4000.00. In today’s pricing. You will have to stay cautious of damaging the liner. Make sure to keep all sharp objects or toys out of the pool as the liner can be easily punctured. Vinyl liner pools are not a good option if your property is in a water table or low area because water from the ground will get behind the liner causing it to float leaving wrinkles around the bottom of the pool and potentially damaging the liner. Lastly, vinyl liner pools do not have the same durability as other types of pools and may need to be replaced more frequently. They also may not be as aesthetically pleasing as other types of pools.

3. Fiberglass Swimming Pools

Fiberglass pools are made of a pre-formed fiberglass shell that is placed into a hole in the ground. These pools are relatively easy to install and can be a good choice for homeowners who want a pool that is ready to use quickly as they can be installed in 4 to 8 weeks. For the most part, they are pretty easy to maintain and are less expensive than a gunite pool, but they are limited in terms of size and shape options.

Overall, the right type of pool for you will depend on your budget, maintenance preferences, and desired aesthetics. Look at the table below and do your research so you know which type of pool to consider for your specific needs before making a decision.

Pool Type	Concrete	Fiberglass	Vinyl Liner
Cost	​High	Medium	Low
Lifespan	30+ Years	20-30 Years	15-30 Years
Lifespan Cost	​Low	Low	High
Maintenance	Low	Low	Medium
Customization	​Full Customization	No Customization	Limited Customization
Duration of Construction	3 to 6 Months	4 to 8 Weeks	6 to 12 Weeks
Added Value to Home	High	Medium	Low