What Type Of Pool Is Cheapest
How to Build the Cheapest Inground Pool Possible
What is a good size pool for a family? It’s recommended having a depth fewer than six feet to meet most pool needs. For a family of six to eight people, an 18 foot by 36-foot pool is recommended. This should be sufficient to avoid crowding and allow for the playing of games. Rectangle shaped pools look best for this size.
Should I Get A Fiberglass Or Concrete Pool
Fiberglass poolsConcrete pools
. Moreover, what is cheaper concrete pool or fiberglass?
Concrete pools cost $50,000 or more and require expensive long-term maintenance. They’re highly customizable but take 3â6 months to install. Fiberglass pools typically cost $45,000 or more and require little maintenance.
Also Know, are fiberglass swimming pools good? Fiberglass swimming pools resist the growth of algae far better than vinyl liner pools because the surface is less porous and does not harbor algae as easily. Fiberglass pools have the best feel on your feet when you are in the water. The shells feel very solid and the surface is not abrasive like gunite/concrete.
Regarding this, how long do Fibreglass pools last?
30 years
Which type of inground pool is best?
Here’s a quick look at the three most popular types of in-ground pools:
- Concrete. Concrete pools are the most popularâand most expensiveâtype of pool.
- Vinyl. Vinyl-lined pools are the second most popular type of in-ground pool, and their numbers are growing.
- Fiberglass.
Fiberglass Vs Vinyl Vs Concrete Pools: What Type Of Pool Is Best
Ah, the great debate of fiberglass vs vinyl vs concrete pools. Everyone wants to know what type of pool is best. And right up front, we have the perfect answer: its entirely dependent on what you want out of your pool.
Naturally, preferences vary from pool owner to pool owner. While some want simplicity and convenience, others opt for space and customizability.
But the fact is, all three pool types serve their purpose perfectly, so we wont be playing favorites in this post. Whats important is understanding the advantages and disadvantages of each, and how they align with your preferences as a pool owner. That way, youll have all the knowledge necessary to choose the pool thats best for your lifestyle, swimming habits, and budget.
So keep reading for an honest comparison of fiberglass vs vinyl vs concrete pools. But first, a common question that needs an answer.
What is an inground pool made of?
If youre thinking of your neighborhood pool or the public pool down by the park, then the answer is likely concrete. But if youre talking about any one of the pools in backyards across America, then you could be dealing with fiberglass, vinyl liner, or concrete pools. This post will make it easy to determine which is which.
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Fiberglass Swimming Pools: Overview
Looking for fast installation and low maintenance? A fiberglass swimming might be perfect for you. Fiberglass is a strong, lightweight material made from tiny glass fibers that are woven together and strengthened with polyester resin. The result: A pool surface thats smooth, attractive, and easier to maintain than concrete or vinyl pools.
Fiberglass is naturally algae resistant , which can contribute to healthier, more balanced swimming pool water. For most fiberglass pools, the biggest maintenance issue is waterline staining/buildup, which can typically be removed with a sponge and a splash of pool cleaning solution.
Do a little research, and youll quickly learn that most folks who opt for fiberglass absolutely love their swimming pools. Youll also learn that, cost-wise, fiberglass can be one of the more expensive options out there. Part of this can be attributed to the unique manufacturing and shipping considerations required with fiberglass swimming pools: Unlike other types of pools which can be assembled on-site, a fiberglass pool is built at a factory and shipped to you in one large piece. That said, most fiberglass pool owners agree that the extra durability and long lifespan are worth the higher upfront cost.
Got a fiberglass pool? Leave draining to the pros.
Fiberglass swimming pools can sustain serious structural damage if not properly drained. If you need to drain your fiberglass pool for any reason, call a pool professional to get the job done right!
Which Is More Affordable
When buying a swimming pool, one of the most important things to consider is your budget. A swimming pool is a large and expensive item, so it is essential that you work out exactly what you can afford before going ahead.
Due to the amount of work involved in building a concrete pool, these are more expensive than fibreglass pools, as they have to be built from scratch on your property. They then need to be tiled or pebbled, which adds to the cost. A concrete pool costs on average $70,000 $100,000 or even more, depending on the design and features you choose.
As fibreglass pools are pre-fabricated, there is less cost involved in the construction and installation process. The pool shell is simply transported to your property and then installed, and it comes complete with the gelcoat interior. As there is less work involved in a fibreglass pool, the cost is significantly lower than with other options.
As with all major purchases, fibreglass swimming pool prices vary depending on what size, style and features you choose. In-ground pools cost more than those which are installed above ground, as there is more construction work needed. For example, Little Pools, which are above-ground fibreglass pools in smaller sizes, start from just $25,750, which is a significant cost saving, and they can be installed on practically any site.
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Which Is Better You Decide
When you compare the list of pros and cons of concrete and fibreglass pools, its not surprising to discover that more than half of all in-ground pools installed in Australia today are fibreglass pools, which represents a significant increase in market share over the last 30 years. Modern fibreglass pools offer an amazing range of shapes and sizes, durability, good looks and can be easier and more cost effective to look after than concrete pools. Compass fibreglass ceramic pools also come with industry-leading warranty protection and the option of the exclusive Vantage in-floor system. Compass Pools authorised dealers have built some of the best pools in Australia rewarded by many highly recognised awards. Many of these awarded pools are shown in our Pool Gallery where you can explore some of the best pools installed. Concrete pools on the other hand, tend to give you more flexibility when it comes to design and can include premium tile finishes where the budget allows. Some concrete pool builders also offer in-floor cleaning and circulation systems.
Which Is More Comfortable To Swim In
If you plan to use your pool regularly for swimming and relaxation, it also important to think about the level of comfort you will enjoy in the pool. Again, here fibreglass swimming pools tend to have the advantage over concrete.
This is because of the gelcoat surface which is used to make the interior of a fibreglass pool shell. It is a smooth surface which is not abrasive, so you are far less likely to suffer scrapes or cuts, unlike in a concrete pool, which may be pebbled or tiled.
Additionally, fibreglass pools tend to heat the water more quickly, and the water retains its heat better, which creates a much more comfortable environment for swimming and relaxing.
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Fiberglass Pools Install Faster
O.K. This one is as simple as it sounds. We can install a fiberglass swimming pool in as little as one day. No other type of swimming pool can say this. Most Vinyl liner pool dealers take upwards of one month and Gunite pool builders can easily take 3 months. But I figured this would be easier to show you than talk about so check out our video of a fiberglass swimming pool being installed in one day.
Which Is Better: Concrete Or Fiberglass Pools
You do not buy a pools every day, so for an investment of this magnitude, thorough research is utterly advised. One of the first things you should consider is whether a fiberglass or concrete pool could satisfy your true wants and needs, therefore which one will prove to be better for you and your family.
Taking all the things into concern leads to an obvious conclusion that the purchase of this sort of commodity does not happen on a daily basis. Moreover, if things are done in a way they should be done, this particular situation occurs once in a lifetime. Therefore, gathering all the possible information about the subject is a matter of great importance.
Whether you like it or not, this kind of acquisition will affect both your life and your lifestyle. Not only will you spend most of your free time around this area, but it will also become a gathering place for your friends and family. Therefore, start checking what are your new duties as a host of the get-togethers you will be organizing.
Among numerous things to choose from when buying a pool, deciding whether you want a concrete or fiberglass pool is what is one of the most important decisions to make. Although they both have their specific advantages and disadvantages, finding out about the pros and cons they both bare might assist you in making a correct decision. Since various factors may affect your choice, reading through the following lines may prove helpful in deciding what suits your needs best.
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Initial Cost Of Fiberglass Pools
Unlike concrete swimming pools, you have the option to DIY installing a fiberglass pool but only do it if youre confident enough that you can do a good job. For those installing their fiberglass pool themselves, the initial cost may be between $12,000 and $30,000.
However, if youll let pool builders do it for you, you will spend about $45,000 to $80,000 depending on your pools size, shape, and added features.
Fiberglass pools are easier to install so you dont have to wait that long for you to see and use your new pool.
Tip: If you havent install fiberglass swimming pools before, itll be better if youll let trained and experienced pool contractors do it for you.
More Affordable: Fiberglass
How Easy Are They To Install
Installing a pool is always going to be a big project, but some are easier to do than others.
- Fiberglass: Fiberglass pools have an average installation time of 3 to 6 weeks. This makes them the fastest out of all the pool types. This is because the pool shell is ready to go, which saves a considerable amount of time. Some people can even install them in a matter of days if they know what theyre doing.
- Concrete: Creating a pool with concrete is the most laborious way to do it. The trade off is a long-lasting pool, but the install time for a concrete pool is anywhere from 3 to 6 months. This of course also depends on how intricate the design is, but be prepared for your backyard to become a construction zone for an entire summer.
- Vinyl Liner: The option in between fiberglass and concrete, vinyl liner pools take around 4 to 8 weeks to install. This is because the perimeter walls require building, and the floor needs to be constructed from either grout or vermiculite.
Winner: Fiberglass pools are the way to go if you want your pool to be constructed in a short amount of time so you can spend your summer swimming in it, rather than just building it.
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What Is The Best Pool Type
What type of pool is easiest to maintain? The smooth, non-porous surface of a fiberglass pool makes it very difficult for algae to gain a foothold. Consequently, it makes it very easy for you to keep it clean. Corrosion resistant. Fiberglass resists corrosion, so it is an excellent option for popular salt sanitation systems.
List Of The Cons Of Fiberglass Pools
1. Poor installation practices can impact the quality of your pool.Fiberglass pools arrive as a pre-manufactured shell. You must work with an experienced contractor who follows the correct procedures for installation to ensure that your investment pays off over time. Anyone can dig a hole to place the foundation of the pool. What youll need to watch for is the work that happens afterward. Your installer should backfill the space with sand and pea gravel as the pool gradually fills with water to ensure the correct supports.
If the installation does not go as planned, then you can experience everything from improper water circulation to a collapse of one of the walls because the bracing was inaccurate. Only work with contractors who are licensed, insured, and bonded so that you have some outs available if the fiberglass pool doesnt live up to your expectations.
2. The fiberglass can interfere with the quality of the water.You must maintain your water quality in the pool throughout the year to ensure that the gel coating can provide the protection the fiberglass requires. If you have a poor pH level or the alkalinity levels are too high, then it may only take a few years before youll need to repair this component of the fiberglass pool. Even something as simple as an improper calcium balance can be enough to trigger this disadvantage. Thats why it is imperative to test the water weekly to ensure it remains at the appropriate quality.
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Pros Of Vinyl Liner Pools
The main advantages of a vinyl liner swimming pool are the low cost of materials, fairly quick installation, and the customization available. In addition to these reasons, vinyl liner pools are fairly easy to maintain and the least expensive to own. You will spend less money up front, and less money refinishing vinyl pools than the others.
There are 2 main wall types with vinyl lined pools, steel and polymer. There are of course advantages to each, mainly based on your soil type. You cna learn more about wall type here! And unlike a fiberglass pool, vinyl liners can be customized into virtually any shape or depth. So, whether you want an L shaped pool, a classic Roman, a Grecian, or even a pool shaped like a guitar, a vinyl liner pool will fit the bill. Options available are wide open and almost limitless.
One of the nicest things about vinyl liner pools is the softness and smoothness of the liner. There is no surface available in other pool types that will match the comfortable feel of a vinyl liner pool. It’s safe for even the wiggliest of swimmers!
The surface of vinyl is not as porous as a plaster finish on a gunite pool, which means vinyl liner pools use less sanitizer than a gunite pool The non-porous surface leads to less chemical usage during the season and therefore less money spent on chemicals.
Pros Of Concrete Pools
Just to be clear gunite pools are concrete pools. The term refers to the method used to apply the concrete since the concrete is shot from a gun onto steel-reinforced walls. Once the concrete sets, it is either plastered to a smooth finish, tiled, or painted. Concrete pools are going to be the highest class of swimming pools on the market and are often referred to as a traditional pool.
The reason for this is their major advantage of being completely customizable. You can design these pools however you like! Vanishing edges, grottoes multi-tiered levels, etc. are completely open to design within safety limits. These pools are made out of a rebar structure that concrete gets sprayed into and onto, then troweled and finished. Many colors and finishes are also available. And of course all of these wonderful unique features come at a price.
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What Are The Downfalls Of A Fibreglass Pool
- Shape/size limitations: Because fibreglass pools are made on a factory mould rather than onsite, you can only choose from the pre-determined shapes that the various manufacturers provide. The sizes and shapes are further limited by the fact that they need to be transported by road. The widest pool supplied by Compass Pools for example is 4.2m in width. If you select our X-Trainer swimming pool shape, for example, you have 4 models that are 4.2 wide to select from: 8.2, 9.4, 10.2 and 11.8. Most manufacturers have a pretty diverse range of shapes and sizes available and the majority of the time you can easily find what youre looking for. Many Compass dealers also offer a unique customisation service allowing additional swim-outs, beach entries and lounge areas to be built into the pool design.
The Ultimate Inground Swimming Pool Guide: The Pros And Cons Of Fiberglass Vs Vinyl Vs Concrete
When choosing an inground pool, you have three choices: vinyl liner, fiberglass, and concrete . There are pros and cons for each type of inground swimming pool. We identify the fiberglass vs. vinyl pool and the fiberglass vs. concrete pool in our overview below.
As you can see from the chart below, fiberglass pools are the most favorable choice, coming out on top in most categories. Keep reading to see why.
What You Will Learn In This Guide:
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So Let Me Clarify A Few Points For You Now:
1. Fiberglass may or may not be the right pool for you. It is NOT for everybody. 2. Concrete may or may not be the right pool for you. It is NOT for everybody.
And now for your TRUE guide to picking the right pool for you.
You should choose a concrete pool if:
1. You are looking for a VERY customized shape or size not offered in the fiberglass line. An example of this would be an L shaped pool or a pool wider than 16. 2. You are looking for a pool DEEPER than 8. This would be because youve decided on a very springy diving board and you want to be able to do many tricks and unique dives off said board. 3. You are not concerned with expensive repairs down the road. 4. You are not concerned with the maintenance time you spend with the pool on a weekly basis. 5. You are trying to create a complete naturescape. In other words, you want the pool to have many natural rock features, grottos, possibly a pond appearance, etc. 6. You are looking for a beach entry. 7. You are NOT concerned with concretes roughness on your feet.
You should choose a fiberglass pool if:
