When we think of swimming pools, swimming baths, or wading pools, we think of cool waters and the relaxing feeling that soothes our entire physique. On a hot, humid day, dipping yourself in the pool is such a great idea. It will release the heat in your body and make you feel cooler and calmer. It can relax your tense muscles and moreover, swimming is also a good exercise because when you swim, you are able to move every muscle of your body.

Many of us love to go swimming in pools but there may be some of us that still don’t know what are the different types of pools. These pools vary in shapes and sizes. There are in-ground and above ground pools. The latter is suitable for places where excavation can be considered impossible due to the cold temperature and threatens damage to the pool structure while in-ground is a pool built into the ground where you have to dig up piles of dirt to make a big, hollow hole. For these types of pools, you can choose what kind of material will be used to build it such as fiberglass, vinyl, or gunite (concrete). Each type has its pros and cons but among these three, there is surely a good, better and best option. And the best option is fiberglass, of course. Want to know why?

Fiberglass Pool

A fiberglass pool is made from fiberglass-reinforced plastic which lasts for a long time. Its durability and dependability is a big factor in making it the best pool. It usually has a lifetime warranty by the manufacturer. It only takes around 2 weeks for installation. Chemical usage is good because the pool’s surface does not alter the water’s chemical balance. You only need to use fewer chemicals. Electrical usage is also on an average of 4-6 hours daily. The surface texture is also smooth thus it does not irritate or hurt the skin and does not scratch bathing suits. The walking and seating areas are also designed to be slip resistant for more security and they are built into the pool shell. You can also clean it up easily with a brush because algae sweeps off with brush effortlessly. Resurfacing also takes more than 10 years. Maintenance only takes 1-2 hours per week. These pools are also manufactured under strict quality control standards. Models are limited to the manufacturer. The type of coping is fiberglass. It only costs average.

Vinyl Pool

On this type of pool, wood, plastic or metal wall frame is being assembled around the hole. Sand is laid out along the bottom hole and vinyl lining is secured. Thus, it only warrants the liner seams only. After 8-10 years, you will have to replace it with a new liner. It also takes 2-3 weeks for installation. There is fewer chemicals needed because the surface does not alter the chemical balance of the water. The surface is smooth but slippery and easily punctured by surfacing rocks, toys or pets. The steps and seating areas are optional and for additional cost. The vinly liner seams are easily penetrated by algae. Electrical usage is 5-7 hours daily. Maintenance per week is 2-3 hours. The quality depends on the installer. Models are limited to the manufacturer.

Gunite (Concrete) Pool

The Gunite Pool is built from a reinforced concrete. It takes around 3-4 weeks to build one. It has around 5-10 years warranty with finishes available. The surface texture is rough and can cause injury or scuffing on skin and swimwear. Electricity usage to circulate water takes 8-10 hours daily. More time and effort is required to clean it up because algae easily penetrates it and would require the use of acid baths and scrubbing. Maintenance time can start from 4-5 hours per week. Resurfacing is 10 years. For the chemicals, the plaster in gunite reacts with water to raise pH levels thus more chlorine and acid are needed to counterbalance the chemical reaction. Stairs and seating are also optional and for an additional cost. The quality depends on the installer as it is made on-site.