As summer nears, you might be thinking about investing in your own in-ground pool. But with so many options available, how do you choose the best one for you? The three most popular types of in-ground pools are concrete, vinyl and fiberglass. Let's take a look at each style. 

What are Your Pool Options?

Concrete pools have historically been the most popular type, but they can take several months to install. Plus, the construction process can be messy and disruptive. 

Vinyl-lined pools, on the other hand, are less expensive and quicker to install, but vinyl liners can tear or fade over time, requiring costly repairs or replacement.

One of the biggest advantages of fiberglass swimming pools is that they are incredibly durable and low-maintenance. Fiberglass pools are made from a one-piece shell that is installed in your yard, eliminating the need for multiple components or materials. This also means that there are fewer places for algae and bacteria to grow, making them easier to clean and maintain.

Fiberglass pools are also incredibly versatile in terms of design and customization. They come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes, and can be customized with features like tanning ledges, built-in seating, and waterfalls. And because the shell is pre-fabricated, the installation process is much quicker and less disruptive than other types of pools.

Another advantage of fiberglass pools is their energy efficiency. The smooth surface of the pool shell means that water circulates more efficiently, requiring less energy to pump and heat the water. This can result in significant energy savings and lower utility bills over time.

Lastly, fiberglass pools are a long-lasting investment. They are built to withstand the elements and can last for decades with proper care and maintenance. And if you ever decide to sell your home, a fiberglass pool can add significant value and appeal to potential buyers.

While all in-ground pool types have their advantages, fiberglass has emerged as a top choice for many homeowners due to its durability, low-maintenance, customization options, energy efficiency, and long-term value. So, if you're looking for a pool that will provide years of enjoyment and hassle-free maintenance, consider a fiberglass pool.

Benefits of a Fiberglass Pool

• Ease of installation: Because a fiberglass pool is manufactured off site, the installation process on a homeowner’s property is relatively simple compared to concrete or vinyl-lined pools. The pre-constructed shell of the pool arrives in a single piece, ready to be placed into the ground. The pool must first be leveled, followed by the installation of heating, filtration, and plumbing components. The entire process can take as little as a week.
• Easy maintenance: Most fiberglass pools are made from acrylic or similar materials that resist stains, are completely smooth and also resist algae formation. Furthermore, the interaction between the water and the rough surface of a concrete pool adds alkaloids to the water which must then be controlled with chemicals. Fiberglass pools require fewer chemicals to achieve a proper pH balance and generally stay cleaner than concrete pools.
• Lower maintenance costs: Vinyl-lined pools are generally less expensive than fiberglass pools, however, the main element of that type of pool – the vinyl liner –  will need to be replaced at some point. Most contractors agree that the general range for replacement is between 5-10 years. Concrete pools also must be relined over time, approximately 7-10 years after installation. Because fiberglass pools are made in a single piece with no corrosive properties, they never require resurfacing.
• Large selection of shapes, styles: What had been a significant disadvantage for fiberglass pools has become much less of a liability in recent years. The design of concrete pools still is only limited by the imagination and ability of the pool contractor and home owner. Fiberglass pools are pre-fabricated, and thus limited to the pre-fabrication choices, however, those choices have increased significantly . It is becoming quite common to find manufacturers with 50+ choices, many of which have moved away from the standard shapes (i.e. rectangular).
• Resale value: Because of their aforementioned benefits, fiberglass pools will often appeal to home buyers that normally would not have been interested in swimming pool ownership, making your home more attractive on the market.

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