Pool enthusiasts often make comparisons between different pool options. Choosing the proper backyard oasis for your enjoyment and property value for years to come is the best strategy. Most of you would ask: which is the right pool choice for your year-long swimming fun? Guess what! You have all you need.
This blog presents an honest comparison between concrete, fiberglass, and vinyl-lined pools. It uncovers various factors, such as the size, shape, pros, and cons of these pools, to help you choose the best pool option for your budget and backyard needs.
Let’s begin your fun reading!
What are concrete pools?
Concrete pools are inground pools built from a rebar structure surrounded by concrete. A protective and decorative layer of plaster then covers the concrete. Concrete pools are famous for their strength and longevity.
This section covers everything about concrete pools.
Size of Concrete Pools
Concrete pools are generally found in the following shapes:
Plunge Pools: 12 x 7 feet to 20 x 10 feet
Medium Pools: 30 x 15 feet to 35 x 18 feet
Large Pools: exceed 40 feet in length with various depths
Shape of Concrete Pools
Concrete pools are highly customized. They can fit any backyard space and shape. The most commonly found shapes of these pools include:
- Rectangular Shaped
- Kidney-Shaped
- L-Shaped
- Infinity Shaped
- Circular Shaped
What is the cost of concrete pools?
Concrete pool costs depend on your chosen size, shape, and other included features. However, the average price of concrete pools ranges from $50,000 to $120,000.
What are the pros of concrete pools?
The following are the pros of concrete pools:
- More customization options in shape and size
- Higher lifespan as compared to other pool options
- More customization options in additional pool features
What are the cons of concrete pools?
Some of the disadvantages of concrete pools include:
- Higher lifetime costs
- More chemical use
- More maintenance
- Longer install time
- Rough interior surface
What are fiberglass pools?
Fiberglass pools are pre-constructed shells directly installed on a prepared site. They are one-piece structures of reinforced fiberglass shells covered in protective gel coats. Fiberglass pools are highly durable and stress-resistant.
Let’s explore fiberglass pools in detail:
Size of Fiberglass Pools
Pool owners can choose between the following shapes of fiberglass pools based on their backyard space requirements.
Small pools: 12 x 25 feet
Medium pools: 14 x 30 feet
Large pools: 16 x 35 feet
Fiberglass Pools’ Shape Options
Fiberglass pools are available in a variety of shapes, including:
- Rectangular
- Kidney-shaped
- Free form
What is the cost of fiberglass pools?
The average cost of fiberglass pools ranges between $20,000 and $85,000, with an average of $52,500. The other cost-defining factors of a fiberglass pool include size, shape, features, location, and additional accessories or landscaping.
What are the pros of fiberglass pools?
Some of the advantages of having a fiberglass pool in your backyard are:
- Pre-constructed designs and shapes for personalized needs.
- quick installation process
- Highly saltwater compatible.
- Requires low maintenance and cleaning
- High structural durability
- Personalized add-ons such as ledges, spillover spas, and custom tiling.
- Anti-slippery surface with anti-skid texture.
What are the cons of fiberglass pools?
The downsides of owning a fiberglass pool include:
- Gelcoat finishing issues
- Discoloration
- Limited shape and design options
- No wider than 16′
- Higher initial cost
What are vinyl liner pools?
Vinyl liner pools are custom-made and made of durable, long-lasting materials. The liners are constructed from PVC vinyl, which has smooth, non-porous surfaces. Here are more details about vinyl liner pools.
Size of Vinyl Liner Pools
The various sizes of vinyl liner pools include:
Small Pools: 10 x 20 feet
Medium Pools: 20 – 40 feet
Large Pools: exceeds 40 feet in length and have various depths.
Vinyl Liner Pools’ Shape Options
These pools are available in various shapes, including:
- Rectangular
- Kidney-shaped
- L-Shaped
- Free form
What is the cost of vinyl liner pools?
The average cost of vinyl liner pools is $35,000 to $65,000. However, the pool cost may vary based on your preferred size, shape, and added features.
What are the pros of vinyl liner pools?
Here are the pros of choosing vinyl liner pools:
- Affordable pool option
- The polymer wall system is compatible with the saltwater system
- Durable and corrosive-free material
- Algae-resistant
What are the cons of vinyl liner pools?
The disadvantages of vinyl liner pools include:
- Higher lifetime costs
- Liner warranties may be prorated
- You have to use the pool with care to prevent punctures or tears of the liner
- Lower resale value
Concrete vs. Fiberglass vs. Vinyl Liner Pools: Which is Right for You?
The above discussion will help you choose between concrete, fiberglass, and vinyl liner pools based on your unique preferences, space requirements, and installation time.
The table below gives you a list of differences between these pool types. You can choose the right pool for your backyard while comparing the features of each one of them.
| Features | Concrete Pools | Fiberglass Pools | Vinyl Liner Pools |
| Customization Options | Highly customizable | Limited Customization options | Reasonable customization |
| Surface | It has a rough surface as compared to the other pool options. | Smooth surface due to the gel coat finishing. | Smooth vinyl surface but less smooth feel than fiberglass. |
| Installation Time | More extended construction or building time | Quick installation process due to pre-constructed structure | Moderate installation. Require a supportive structure before liner installation. |
| Maintenance | Require high maintenance and cleaning | Low maintenance and cleaning requirements as compared to the other two pool types. | Moderate cleaning requirements |
| Costs | most expensive upfront costs | Moderate costs as compared to the other two pool types. | Lowest upfront costs. It is the most budget-friendly option. |
| Durability | Highly durable. It can last for decades. | The fiberglass shell is solid and durable. | The building structure is durable. The liner needs replacing every 7-15 years. |
Silverline Pools: Your Best Pool Builder
Silverline Pools is the best pool designer and installer in Knoxville. With our customizable pool shape and size options, we are leading the local pool industry. In addition to pool construction, we are famous for our affordable pool services.
Our seasoned team works tirelessly to transform your pool dreams into stunning backyard pools. In addition to concrete, fiberglass, and vinyl liner pools, our other customized pool construction options include steel wall pools, gunite pools, and aluminum pools.
Wrapping Up
Building a pool in your backyard is a wise investment in your home’s resale value. Unlimited swimming fun is what owners long for in a pool. Considering different pool options, concrete, fiberglass, and vinyl liner pools are the most famous.
Each of these pools is best considered for its unique features. Choosing between these pools depends on your personal choice and budget. Silverline Pools offers highly personalized and wallet-friendly concrete, fiberglass, and vinyl liner pools. Contact their expert team to turn your ordinary home backside into a splashing pool reality.
