Selecting the Right Kind of Inground Pool
So, you’ve finally made the big decision and opted to have an in-ground pool built into your backyard rather than having an above-ground pool installed. If you have the extra time and money, in-ground pools are fantastic as a permanent home improvement and for long-term investment, adding value to your home and property. They’re also usually larger, more esthetically pleasing, and more fun!
However, your decision-making is far from over. There are, in fact, several different types of in-ground pools (and we’re not just talking size, shape, or pattern here) from which you’ll need to choose just one. The four main or basic types of in-ground pools are: vinyl-lined pools, fiberglass pools, concrete pools, and gunite pools. Understanding the differences and pros and cons of each type of in-ground pool is essential for learning how to choose the right one for you and your family.
Vinyl Lined Pools
First, let’s look at vinyl-lined pools. Vinyl-lined pools are normally considered the simplest type of in-ground pool. They are structurally very similar to above-ground pools (above-ground pools usually have blue vinyl liners), and take about a week to three weeks for a contractor or company to construct. Vinyl-lined pools suit colder climates almost perfectly, seeing as all you need to do come winter time is drain the pool and then cover it. Another pro for vinyl-lined in-ground pools is that they are generally cheaper than the other types, due to their simple construction. However, you may find that they are less durable and not quite as sturdy than other types of in-ground pools, and ongoing maintenance or repairs may be required. Also, keep in mind the liner must be replaced every 10 years.
Fiberglass Pools
If you opt for a fiberglass pool, the “shell” is constructed first (the ground dug out, plumbing laid, and sand poured in), and then the fully-completed pool (which will typically be built in a factory and not in your yard) will arrive, resembling something like a very large bathtub. Fiberglass pools take about two weeks for completion. They are generally the most expensive type of in-ground pool you can find, but on the flip side, they are incredibly durable and shock-absorbent, and also don’t require much maintenance or chemicals for the pool water.
Concrete Pools
If durability is your thing, you may want to go stronger than fiberglass and opt for a concrete in-ground pool, probably the strongest type of pool you can get. One pro in addition to its strength that many pool owners love is that it’s customizable—it can be custom-made to fit your backyard and you could even paint it or decorate it however you like. However, concrete pools are difficult to construct, and take quite a long time as the process is quite complicated and time-consuming.
Gunite Pools
Gunite pools are very similar to concrete pools insofar as their durability, strength, time-consuming process, and customization is concerned. However, gunite pools are built using the “gunite method,” which is slightly different than how concrete pools are constructed. Gunite and concrete pools alike both take many weeks to complete—normally about 12. However, their durability and customizable nature, as well as the fact that they are less expensive than fiberglass pools and are also known to withstand very hot temperatures, make them popular choices.
Whether you choose a vinyl-lined, fiberglass, concrete, or gunite pool depends on your needs, situation, budget, time frame, and what you’re ultimately looking for in a pool.
