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Fiberglass vs. Concrete vs. Vinyl Pools

shop-mgr2023-05-18T09:15:30+00:00

January 4, 2021

Buying a pool can be a big decision and if you’re a first time pool owner, there may seem like there are a lot of different directions you could go in. The three most common types of inground pools you can have installed are fiberglass pools, concrete pools, and vinyl pools. So, which one is best? This post will cover some of the pros and cons of owning each.

Fiberglass Swimming Pool

Fiberglass pools are made from molded plastic material. They begin with a pattern, or plug, that creates the general shape of the pool. This is then turned into a mold, which is basically the inverse of the pool design. The shell of the pool is built on top of the mold, and then released to create the final shape of the fiberglass pool shell before it is dropped into the ground at its final destination. Fiberglass pools come in other materials besides fiberglass, and they can be used for residential swimming pools or for spas or resorts.

There are three kinds of fiberglass pools – acrylic, polyethylene, and acrylic terra-cotta. Each one is unique because of their manufacturing process. Acrylic is the cheapest because of its low manufacturing cost, while terra-cotta is the priciest because of its natural durability and resistance to chemical corrosion. However, all three have low maintenance costs and require very little cleaning, aside from occasional sanding and painting. Acrylic and polyethylene shells are resistant to water, sun, stains, grease, and algae, so owners can enjoy them for many years.

In addition to their low costs, fiberglass pools also have faster installation and less costly repairs. This is mainly because their shell is already pre-molded. These shells also allow for faster installation because they don’t need to be “filled” with concrete, which takes more time and costs more money.

Concrete Swimming Pool

Concrete pools are usually made from either shotcrete or concrete. The main difference is in the way the concrete mixes with the water during the pouring process. Shotcrete tends to be wet concrete that is already mixed at the time it is poured into the desired shape. Concrete is dry, so it immediately becomes porous and can be damaged more easily.

The pros of concrete pools are plenty, but the key one is durability. Concrete pools are extremely durable and reliable. This is why the majority of outdoor commercial and residential pools are concrete. The major con of concrete pools is that they are expensive, especially in comparison to fiberglass

Vinyl Swimming Pool

Thanks to their lightweight construction and easy-to-install qualities, vinyl pools can be built into many different shapes and configurations. The flexibility of vinyl pools means that less complicated designs can take as little as a few days for construction.

One of the main reasons that people choose vinyl pools is for their design flexibility. Most vinyl pool installers will have a variety of stock shapes for you to choose from while also offering you the option of a fully customized design.

The cost of installing vinyl pools is substantially less than the concrete pools. The reason for the significant cost difference is primarily because the vinyl lining is installed as a solid membrane within the liner base itself. This makes the vinyl extremely light weight, which reduces the overall cost of the pool to manufacture. However, vinyl pools are not without their cons. Vinyl pools may require the liner to be replaced more frequently, and sometimes have issues with algae growth, which can both add to your long-term expenses.

Outfitting Your New Pool

Once you’ve decided on the right type of pool, you’ll need to figure out what other accessories you’ll need to complete your new backyard oasis. Will you be adding a pool slide? How about railings and ladders for easy entry? What about a pool side bar or a pool basketball hoop for the kids? Be sure to do your homework on these items as well to make sure your pool equipment and accessories are as long lasting and high quality as the pool itself. Global Pool Products is an American manufacturer who supplies these products. You can browse them all on our website and contact a dealer to learn more.

Fences

If you live in a residential area with an open backyard, you will need a fence. Fences will act as barriers, keeping young children and pets safe. Depending on your pool’s orientation, you may need a tall, chain-link fence. These fences will guard against animal invasions (you don’t want to see a bear swimming in your pool) and are excellent at keeping out curious neighborhood kids. Expect to pay up to a few thousand dollars for an eight-foot-tall chain link fence.

Landscaping

Adding in beautiful stone walls, greenery and natural accents can accentuate the aesthetic of your pool. Landscaping can be as simple or as complex as you want it to be, so costs will vary. In general, the average cost of landscaping around a pool will be about $13,000, depending on the size of your yard.

Heaters

If you want to enjoy the pool when the weather is cooler, you will need to install a heater for comfort. Typically, this will cost between $1,800 and $2,400 for a heater, its components and installation.

Waterfalls

Waterfalls can enhance the look of any pool and add a bit of spa-like luxury to your outdoor oasis. Waterfalls are both aesthetic and functional. They look great and keep the water circulating in the pool. Waterfalls range in size, so the price can vary widely. Most standard waterfalls cost about $1,500.

Lighting

Nothing is more relaxing than lounging by the pool at night with just the pool’s underwater lights for ambience. Adding in a few simple lights can cost as little as $450 for the lights and installation, while more intricate lighting set-ups can cost $1,200 or more.

Diving Boards and Slides

Diving and sliding into the pool enhances the fun. Diving boards are pretty standard additions for pools that are at least 12′ deep, so it pays to factor in this cost. Expect to pay about $500 for a diving board and installation. Most simple pool slides cost between $1,500 and $3,000, while the taller, more elaborate slides can cost as much as $10,000.

Pool Steps and Railings

If you’re not installing a zero-entry pool, you will need to install steps to help you get in and out easily and safely. Steps are an absolute must if children or dogs will be using the pool. You can have stone steps built into the side of the pool or buy pre-made steps that hook onto the side. The average cost of steps is about $1,400- $1,900. When installing steps, you’ll also likely need to install a railing, which will add a couple hundred more dollars onto your total pool price. Ladders, for either above ground or inground pools, will also add anywhere from $100 to around $300 each to your total.

Additional Costs

If you are installing a permanent above ground pool or an in-ground pool, you will need a permit from your town or city for the construction. Permits will range from $80 to $100, depending on where you live. In some cases, your pool installation company will add this fee into the cost of their service.

Where to Buy Swimming Pools

Most people buy pools from companies that specialize in swimming pools and installation. In addition, most landscaping companies can give you referrals to the best places to buy swimming pools in your area. If you are looking for above ground pools, home improvement stores and online retailers are a good place to start.

When it comes to enhancing your backyard enjoyment, there is no better way than with a swimming pool. Whether you are looking for a permanent above ground pool or a custom-built in-ground pool, there are great options that can fit just about any budget.

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