What You Need to Know About the 3 Types of In-Ground Pools
Now that we have made our official announcement that Montano’s Landscaping has expanded our services to include in-ground pools and spas, we are excited to help our clients understand the options available to them. When our owners, Carlos and Amanda, had a pool installed at their home a number of years ago, they were overwhelmed by all the options. To make it easier for you as you consider adding an in-ground pool to your landscape design, we’re here to compare the pros and cons of each pool type.
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What Are the 3 Types of In-Ground Pools?
There are three types of in-ground pools. Many people consider the pool deck or pool patio as part of their pool, and there are countless ways you can personalize the area that surrounds your pool (so many, in fact, those options will be discussed in a future blog article).
The 3 types of pools are vinyl, fiberglass, and concrete (which is further broken out into shotcrete or gunite). Let’s talk about the benefits and considerations of each.
Vinyl
Vinyl liners are fully customizable to the shape of your space, have a sturdy steel wall frame, provide a soft feel for comfort when in the pool (no scraped knees!), and are the most affordable option. Due to the soft liner surface, it is important to clear debris from the pool regularly to avoid liner tears. Vinyl liners do need to be replaced, so that is part of the overall maintenance consideration long-term, and they can fade unevenly with sun exposure. If you are looking for the least expensive initial installation cost, a vinyl liner is your best bet.
Fiberglass
The biggest selling points of fiberglass are that it is quite low-maintenance, extremely durable, and takes the least amount of time to install. That said, if you have a uniquely shaped space, fiberglass is likely not the best choice for you – they are not customizable, as they are a prefabricated product. Accessibility to the space is a consideration, as well, because installation usually requires a crane to lower the fiberglass shell into place. If you opt to go with fiberglass, it is important that you select a knowledgeable company for installation and care guidance, as the warranty can be voided if the pool is not installed properly or if it is drained (which can cause damage due to ground water). Fiberglass is more expensive than a vinyl liner but less expensive than concrete, offering a quality product at a mid-level cost.
Concrete
As we mentioned, there are two types of concrete pools – shotcrete and gunite. Let’s start by explaining the difference. Shotcrete is a pre-mixed (wet mix) product that is applied directly from a concrete truck to the pool frame. Gunite starts dry and is mixed on-site. When done properly, the end result between the two is comparable, and the difference is usually only identifiable by an industry expert. Montano’s will work closely with you and the subcontractor to determine which will be the better fit for your situation.
Because the pool is installed on-site, the shape of the pool is fully customizable. It is ideal for yards that have elevation changes or a smaller footprint for the pool since there is less support structure required. Concrete pools are strong and durable and are often considered the highest quality option. They are also the most expensive to install and will need plaster and tile replacement in time.
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How Does Installation Vary Among the Options?
If you are looking for the quickest installation, fiberglass is the clear winner. Because it is a pre-made shell, it is lowered into place after the site has been excavated and prepared. Vinyl takes a bit longer since there are more steps in the process and the pool is constructed by hand. The steel wall frame and flooring are constructed on-site, and then the liner will be installed. Concrete pools take the longest to install because there are several steps that need to take place before the concrete can be applied. After excavation, the rebar frame will be constructed, followed by plumbing installation, concrete application, waterline tile installation, and then plaster. Once those steps are completed, there is a 2-3 week waiting period for the concrete to cure before the pool can be filled.
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Pool Maintenance Considerations
We’ll be honest – a pool is not a “set it and forget it” outdoor living element. It is extremely important that you keep the water chemistry in balance both for the benefit of those using the pool and the long-term beauty of your investment. A rough guideline for anticipated maintenance for your pool, by pool type is:
Vinyl: Liner replacement about every 7-10 years
Fiberglass: Virtually maintenance-free
Concrete: Resurface about every 10-15 years
Selecting a quality cover, removing debris regularly, and staying on top of balancing the pool’s water chemistry are your best defenses against premature aging of your pool.
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Having a Hard Time Deciding? Here’s What Others Choose…
Clients often ask Amanda (a.k.a. our Pool Lady) which pool type she prefers, and her answer is either concrete or vinyl. Montano’s Landscaping works closely with each of our clients to fully customize their outdoor spaces to their preferences, and both concrete and vinyl offer complete customization. You can add a variety of features, adjust the depth as you see fit, and create the exact pool size and shape you want since both concrete and vinyl are created on-site.
The most popular selections for pools in the western suburbs are vinyl or fiberglass, though we are starting to see more of a demand for concrete. We also see the occasional request for saltwater pools and are pleased to share that you can still select any one of the three pool types and fill with saltwater (but again, make sure to keep the water chemistry in balance).
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It is impossible to say which pool type is the “best” because each client’s needs are unique. When choosing a pool type, consider your budget, what pool features are important to you, and any obstacles specific to your lot (ease of access, amount of space, change in grade, etc.). When you meet with Amanda, you and she will talk through these considerations, and the pool choice that works best for your unique property and preferences will become clear. You’ll be able to experience some of the materials in person at our new showroom in Bolingbrook, which will also help you feel confident in your choice. Even better, if you are looking at installing a pool as part of an overall landscape design, Montano’s will be your partner from beginning to end!