Fiberglass vs Concrete vs Vinyl
There are 3 types of inground pools:
Fiberglass, Concrete & Vinyl
- Fiberglass pool advantages
Fiberglass pools are easier to maintain because of the non-porous surface. Unlike the porous rough surface of a plaster finish in a concrete pool. Not only is the concrete pool rough on bathers and bathing suits, algae can hide in the surface which leads to higher maintenance costs due to more chemical use and more tedious pool cleaning.
Fiberglass pool owners not only save time but also typically spend 65% less on maintaining their pools.
Recommended for those with a 30k-70k budget who would like low maintenance and a swift construction process of 30-60days
Strength and Longevity
Fiberglass pools are incredibly strong, no need to worry about damage from debris
Saltwater Pool Systems
Fiberglass pools are compatible with saltwater systems, and due to its smooth interior finish, saltwater systems are twice as efficient in fiberglass pools as they are in concrete pools. This translates into less time and money spent on pool maintenance.
- Disadvantages of fiberglass
Fiberglass pools cannot be customized, the shape, size and depth cannot be changed.
However... with many shapes and sizes to choose from we find 90% of families find a design they love
- Concrete Pool Advantages
Concrete pools are customizable. You can change the size, shape and depth of the pool to fit your desires
Like fiberglass, concrete pools are durable, very strong and last a lifetime
Concrete pools are suggested for those with a 50k-200k budget who want/need custom shape and design.
- Concrete Pool Disadvantages
Due to the porous surface it requires more chemical use than vinyl or fiberglass pools. It also gives algae a place to hide, driving maintenance costs up.
It is also not compatible with salt. Salt and concrete do not mix. The dissolved salt in the pool water will shorten the life of the finish, causing more frequent refinishing. This can add up to tens of thousands of dollars over the lifespan of the pool.
Concrete pools have the highest cost of purchase up front, and have the slowest installation time of 6 - 12months.
- Vinyl Pool Advantages
Coming in at the lowest cost of purchase up front are viny pools. The smooth surface allows for lower maintenance and less chemical use than concrete pools
Vinyl pools are recommended for those with a 25k-55k and plan on living in the home for 3-5yrs
- Vinyl Pool Disadvantages
The biggest disadvantage to vinyl pools is the frequency the liner must be replaced, therefore driving up the cost.
Needles to say, vinyl pools are also not as strong as fiberglass nor concrete.