You’ve decided to take the plunge- literally- and invest in a backyard pool. Making that decision is the easy part. Choosing the best type of pool for you takes a lot more thought.
The most popular inground swimming pools are made from fibreglass or steel vinyl. In this blog, the team at Green Collar Landscaping’s Pool Division highlights the features and benefits of each type, so you can choose the option that suits you.
Fibreglass Pools
A fibreglass pool is a reinforced fibreglass shell covered with a protective gel coat. These pools are installed in one piece and don’t have a liner that needs to be replaced periodically. There is a persistent myth that fibreglass pools will pop out of the ground, but this won’t happen for pools that have been installed properly, include a proper sump system, and are kept full of water at all times.
Other advantages include:
- Straightforward Installation: Fibreglass pools are built off-site and shipped, so there is no construction involved. Once the shell arrives and the hole is dug, installation can be completed in a few days.
- Durability: If you have a vinyl pool, you need to be careful not to puncture the liner. Fibreglass pools are more durable and less prone to damage, making it the best type of pool for you if you have pets.
- Low-Maintenance: Fibreglass pools are virtually maintenance-free since they are resilient and non-porous. Their smooth surface makes them less prone to algae growth, and stable pH levels are easier to maintain.
- Lower Cost of Ownership: Although fibreglass pools have a higher initial cost than vinyl liners, they tend to cost considerably less in the long run due to their low maintenance requirements.
- Compatibility With Saltwater Systems: Saltwater pools are becoming increasingly popular. They produce safe levels of chlorine while leaving your skin feeling soft and smooth. Fibreglass pools are the best type of pool for saltwater systems because they resist corrosion.
The only potential disadvantages are the higher installation price and the fact that fibreglass shells can’t be customized. However, there are a variety of shapes and sizes to choose from, and the reduced maintenance costs usually offset this initial investment.
Steel Vinyl Pools
Vinyl-lined steel swimming pools, which most people are familiar with, have a custom-manufactured vinyl sheet between the steel pool structure and the water.They are one of the most popular backyard pool options due to their durability and flexible design. Other advantages include:
- Easy to Customize: Due to the flexibility of steel walls, vinyl pools can be designed in practically any size or shape. You can be a lot more creative with the result.
- Less Expensive: In terms of up front costs, vinyl pools tend to be less expensive than fibreglass or concrete pools. It may be the best type of pool for you if you are on a budget.
- Durability: Although not as low-maintenance as fibreglass pools, vinyl pools are still durable. However, If you don’t take care of your vinyl liner, you may incur high repair costs due to avoidable tears. Due to its non-porous nature, pools lined with vinyl also require fewer chemicals.
Potential drawbacks include a longer installation time and slightly higher lifetime cost compared to fibreglass pools. More care is involved in maintaining the liner and preventing algae growth You’re also looking at replacing the liners every eight to 10 years on average. However, these are relatively minor issues that won’t interfere with your enjoyment of these popular backyard pools.
So Which is the Best Type of Pool for You?
A fibreglass or steel vinyl pool can turn your backyard into a staycation haven. To determine the best type of pool for your family and property, reach out to Green Collar Landscaping for a free estimate. We will look at the proposed install location, listen to your goals, and help you make a choice you’ll love. Learn more by calling (289) 339-1364.