In-ground swimming pool adds value to your real estate, and provides year-round entertainment and enjoyment for your family. If you're adding a swimming pool to your real estate, it pays to research the three main types of in-ground pools and their cost, as well as the benefits and drawbacks of each. In this article, the focus will be on an up-and-coming type of pool than is a favorite of owners who want a durable, low-maintenance swimming pool: an in-ground fiberglass pool.

What is a fiberglass pool?

Fiberglass is a superior vessel for holding water and does not peel, chip, or leach chemicals into the water. This lack of chemical leaching means that far less chemicals are required to maintain the PH balance in a fiberglass pool saving you money.

Fiberglass offer the benefit of a gel-coat surface made with polyester MPG-Isothalic resin with color pigment mixed in. A chemical bond is formed between the fiberglass and the gel-coat, providing a nonporous, algae, acid, and oxidizer resistant surface. This gel-coat also repels stains and serves as a strong protective barrier for your fiberglass pool.

Fiberglass is ideal in virtually any climate

Because fiberglass has the ability to mold, stretch, and adjust to changing temperature and ground conditions, they are ideal in virtually any climate conditions. This includes areas susceptible to deep freezes, as well as sandy or rocky ground conditions.

Vinyl and concrete, the other two main types of pools, also work well in most climates. The biggest drawback to a vinyl pool is the necessity of maintaining and possibly replacing the liner on a fairly regular basis. Concrete pools lose some of their durability in freezing climates, and while they are less expensive to install, they are more difficult to maintain.

Design possibilities for you fiberglass pool

Unlike vinyl pools, fiberglass pools are available in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and colors. The design possibilities are virtually limitless; fiberglass makes it easy for a buyer to design a pool that suits both their needs and their desire for aesthetic appeal. Vinyl pools are typically available only in traditional shapes and sizes, and can only be customized at additional expense. Even then, design options are limited.

Low-maintenance fiberglass

Fiberglass pools are extremely durable, do not require re-surfacing or extensive maintenance, and require less weekly maintenance due to the fact that fiberglass does not change the chemical composition of the water and is not a haven for algae growth like concrete.

As mentioned above, vinyl pools liners are not as durable as concrete or fiberglass, and need to be replaced far more often. Vinyl liners offer a kid friendly, soft surface that concrete does not, but is also more susceptible to punctures and tears.

Installing your fiberglass pool

If you are considering a fiberglass pool for your existing home and you want a pool that is quick and easy to install, you are in luck. Fiberglass pool installation only requires digging the required hole, installing your pre-shaped fiberglass pool, and filling it with water.