What Are the Different Types Of In-ground Swimming Pool Construction?

Different types of swimming pool construction and materials

Interested in installing a swimming pool but don’t know where to begin? Fujiwa Tiles will give you an understanding of each type of in-ground swimming pool construction and material. A pool is an outstanding feature to add to a home; however, it is important homeowners know what they are getting into before selecting a certain swimming pool.

 

Fiberglass Pools

Pools made out of fiberglass have increased in popularity over the years. Reason being, they are easy to maintain and can last virtually forever. Fiberglass is nonporous, meaning it can’t be penetrated by water. Therefore, it does not require special chemicals to withstand and it will not allow for algae to grow on the shell. This characteristic makes for extremely simple maintenance. Installation companies are so confident in fiberglass pools that they will often offer a lifetime warranty!

Actual installation has positive and negative aspects. The negative: fiberglass pools come preformed. They are manufactured in a factory and transported to a customer’s home once purchased. Being transported by vehicle limits the width of fiberglass pools to no more than 18”, generally speaking. They cannot be customized and they only come in freeform styles, no “L” or rectangular shapes.

On the other hand, the preformation makes installation simple and quick. The installer excavates a spot in the backyard to have the pool shell placed. Beforehand, he/she takes care of the plumbing and filtration. The fiberglass pool shell is then placed in the excavated hole by crane. Ultimately, fiberglass swimming pool construction takes only 1 to 2 days.

 

Vinyl-liner Pools

Vinyl pools can be constructed via stainless steel, polymer and cement. The material enables customization; vinyl pools can be shaped and styled in any way. This is a major selling point for consumers. They are also the cheapest of all swimming pool types. Of course, vinyl’s affordability can be looked at in a positive light, though, there is a reason it is so affordable.

Vinyl pools are of lesser cost because they lack in durability. They have to be re-lined every 5-7 years, which can cost around $4,000-$5,000 each time. Thus, the low up front cost is somewhat deceptive. Vinyl pools are also much thinner than other pool types. They are only 20-30 mil thick, making punctures possible, especially if children or pets are frequently using the pool.

 

Concrete Pools

Concrete pools come in two types: poured-concrete and gunite. Gunite-formed pools are made using rebar and secured with wire. Like vinyl, they can be shaped and styled however the customer requests. This type is arguably the most appealing of all pool types. The versatility of gunite pools allows for all sorts of unique finishes. For example, pebble, quartz, or glass finished. A gunite pool will truly stand out in a backyard.

The downsides are cost, installation and maintenance. Concrete pools are the most costly of all in-ground pools, both in material and labor. The installation process takes roughly two months. Concrete swimming pool construction will take about a month, and curing will take an additional 28-30 days. In addition, concrete is porous; therefore, it will require specific chemicals to counteract corrosion and oxidation.

Concrete pools will have to be renovated every 10 years or so. They generally come with a 1-5 year warranty and require significant daily maintenance.

Once you reach the swimming pool tile phase, Fujiwa Tiles is your top tile source. We have over 100 tile types at your disposal, each up to date with the latest innovations. We aim to give your pool the look you desire, while also providing long-lasting tile material. Contact Fujiwa Tiles today! Please visit our blog for additional helpful information.