In this present day and age, there are three main materials used for pool construction. They include fiberglass, concrete and vinyl lining. All these materials can provide a unique and attractive inground pool. However, they offer different levels of longevity. So, let’s look at an in-depth explanation of the inground pool type that’s likely to provide the highest durability.
Concrete pools #
Above all pools, concrete is the most durable. Pool builders construct these pools with a mixture of sand and cement sprayed over robust rebar. Even though the surface of concrete pools may not be user friendly, they can last for decades. The durability is almost similar to fiberglass pools. However, they need frequent maintenance procedures. Concrete pools allow pool owners to incorporate a wide range of designs. Also, they incur the most installation and building costs.
Fiberglass pools #
Pool professionals commend fiberglass pools due to various reasons. Finishing on fiberglass pools maintains an impermeable surface thus preventing leaks. Also, a fiberglass inground pool incorporates very minimal maintenance processes and costs. Above all, they have a short installation process, and you can have your pool ready in weeks. But they don’t offer high versatility compared to gunite pools. Fiberglass pools can also encounter cracks due to water pressure and other influential external forces. Even so, they are more durable than vinyl pools.
Vinyl pools #
Compared to concrete and fiberglass pools, vinyl liner pools provide minimal longevity. They incorporate vinyl liners which are prone to wear and tear from external surfaces. As a matter of fact, these liners can tear due to a small sharp object in the pool. Also, the vinyl liners are not that durable and can last only for a maximum of ten years. But it all depends on your maintenance procedures. If you practice fewer maintenance procedures, you’ll have to replace the liner after four years. So, this will increase the revamp procedures as well as costs.
Furthermore, the liner contains various sections that accommodate algae breeding grounds. Pool chemicals also contribute to wearing out of the liners. Thus, pool owners should only use chemicals suitable for vinyl liners.
In summary #
So, if you want an inground pool that offers high longevity, think of fiberglass and concrete pools. However, concrete is slightly more durable than fiberglass. But fiberglass pools incorporate little maintenance costs; thus, you can go for fiberglass pools. Even so, this does not mean you will never encounter problems with fiberglass pools. They are prone to cracks resulting from strong external forces. Note that vinyl liners are not the best option if you want a highly durable pool. Ultimately, it would be best if you go for what works best for you.
