Fiberglass vs. Concrete vs. Vinyl Liner Pools: Which Is Right For Me?
What Is The Best Type of Inground Swimming Pool for You?
Ultimately, the best type of inground swimming pool is the one that lets you get the most enjoyment out of your backyard. Planning your dream pool and picking pool materials is an initial step to set you up for a lifetime of fun and memories. To help you choose the best type of swimming pool for you, we’ll look at factors like installation time, style and customization, pool cost, durability and maintenance needs to help you understand the differences between Latham fiberglass and vinyl liner pools vs. concrete (also referred to as gunite or shotcrete) pools.
Installation Time
If you want your pool built quickly, opt for fiberglass or vinyl liner. Many concrete pools are built using the gunite process and can take approximately three to six months to install, from the permit process to finishing touches like fence installation. Because fiberglass pools are pre-engineered, you can enjoy your pool as soon as three days after delivery. Vinyl liner pools may take a little longer to build and install, but you can still have a ready-to-use pool in a matter of weeks vs. the arduous months-long process required for concrete pools.
Style and Customization
Part of the fun of the pool-planning process is designing the pool to be truly your own. While fiberglass pools are pre-engineered, they come in a wide variety of options that can fit any backyard aesthetic. Vinyl liner pools are highly customizable and offer an abundance of options and add-ons to choose from. Concrete pools also offer many customization options, but require a significant amount of planning and groundwork to design.
Pool Cost
Pool cost can be a wide range depending on a number of factors. Out of the three pool options, concrete is the most expensive vs. fiberglass or vinyl liner pools. The initial cost of a concrete pool can be upwards of $60,000. The average initial costs of fiberglass and vinyl liner pools can start around $50,000, but the total cost can depend on a number of factors.
Contact us to get a price estimate based on your desired style, features and add-ons.
Pool Longevity and Durability
Materials can play a role in your pool’s longevity. Fiberglass pools are exceptionally durable and can last the lifetime of a home. Vinyl liner pools can also last the lifetime of a home. However, the liner itself will need to be replaced on average every ten years, but provides a unique opportunity to completely refresh the look of your pool. Concrete pools can last for decades, but require routine maintenance such as costly acid washing and resurfacing approximately every 10 years.
Advantages of Fiberglass Pools
Fiberglass pools have a number of advantages when comparing them vs. concrete pools or vinyl liner pools.
Advantages of Vinyl Liner Pools
From virtually endless customization options to affordability, vinyl liner pools have a number of advantages.
Analyzing Concrete Pools (Gunite Pools)
Concrete pools are sometimes referred to as gunite pools. While their ability to be highly customized is one of the most attractive features of a gunite pool, they can take longer to install. Although both offer a lot of design flexibility and customization options, one of the main differences between gunite and fiberglass is that fiberglass pools are manufactured offsite while gunite pools are made-to-order and the process – from digging to pouring your pool – happens entirely in your backyard.
A fiberglass pool is made of prefabricated components, which are then delivered and installed on your property. While your fiberglass pool is being manufactured, your building team can concurrently begin breaking ground and getting ready for your pool to be delivered and installed. Installing a fiberglass pool can take as little as two to three days.
By contrast, a gunite pool needs to be done in stages, with your pool installation team digging and preparing the ground, then adding concrete to the space. It can take roughly 28 to 30 days for a gunite pool to cure before it can be filled and used. From end-to-end, the entire installation process for a gunite pool can take anywhere from three to six months.
When comparing a gunite pool vs a liner pool, a vinyl liner pool may take slightly longer to install than fiberglass. However, you’re looking at a timetable of roughly two to five weeks for a vinyl pool to be completed compared to the multi-month process required for proper installation of a gunite pool.
Fiberglass, Vinyl Liner and Concrete Pool Takeaways: Which Is Better For You?
A pool can give you many years of enjoyment from the comfort of your own backyard. Choosing the type of pool that’s best for you depends on what matters most to you with your backyard pool experience. Comparing the pros and cons can help you find the best pool material to increase the recreation—and relaxation—you’ll get from your pool in the long run.
*Installation costs based on national average selling and installation pricing. Actual costs depend on various factors, including location of service, pool model and options selected. Please consult with us for a customized estimate.
Find Your Dream Pool
Now that you understand a little more about the pros and cons of each pool type, you’ll be better prepared to make a decision that’s right for you.
Start shopping for your fiberglass or vinyl liner pool with Latham. Get in touch with our team of friendly, knowledgeable experts who can help you determine which options are the best for your tastes, budget and lifestyle.
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