Pools with vinyl liners will last more than 20 years, as long as you replace your liner every 6-12 years. Concrete pools have exceptional longevity, but you need to resurface the concrete every 10 years or so. Fiberglass pools have the longest lifespans of any in-ground pool, often easily surpassing 30 years.
It generally takes between three and 12 weeks to install a concrete pool. That's longer than other types, but concrete is considered the strongest, most durable type of pool. And unlike other in-ground pools, existing concrete pools can be rebuilt, refinished, enlarged, or updated.
The smooth, non-porous surface of a fiberglass pool makes it very difficult for algae to gain a foothold. Consequently, it makes it very easy for you to keep it clean. Corrosion resistant. Fiberglass resists corrosion, so it is an excellent option for popular salt sanitation systems.
Concrete pools tend to be the strongest of all the inground swimming pools. Since they are rebar and concrete they can't oxidize or corrode. Like every other form of concrete, they get stronger as time passes. They are at the upper echelon of price points and have a higher end product reputation.
A well-maintained concrete pool should last around 50 years or more. And a well constructed in-ground concrete swimming pool should last a lifetime. But, a pool's liner or finish won't last long. And thus, an in-ground concrete pool will need to be resurfaced every 10 to 15 years.
Typically, some last from 5 to 10 years and others that are in ideal settings and properly taken care of may just very well last over 15 years. Since you've made the investment, ensuring that you make the best of your investment will include properly caring for that vinyl liner.
Both are guaranteed for 25 years but can last much longer. My 30-year-old steel walls looked great when we replaced the liner a few years ago, and I saw no signs of deterioration, no dents, and no rust. The shell of a concrete pool can be expected to last 50 years in most cases.
For a family of 8 people, a pool size of 18 by 36 feet is adequate. Even if you all decide to swim at the same time, there will be enough space for everyone. A rectangular shape is the best choice for this size of the pool. If there are six or less in your family, a pool size of 16 by 32 feet will be sufficient.
Pros of Saltwater Pools
There's less chlorine and less of the heavy chemical scent and content. They're gentler on the skin, with less irritation to the eyes, hair and swimsuits. The water has a softer, silkier feel to it compared to chlorine water. They have lower maintenance costs than chlorine pools.
Resale Value
A pool can increase not only your social worth but also the value of your home. However, the increase is probably not as much as you think. According to HouseLogic, there's no real guarantee that you'll make your money back. In fact, adding a swimming pool may only increase your home's value by 7%.
The main budget-friendly inground pool options include fiberglass and vinyl pools. These pools are more affordable compared to concrete. Moreover, there are numerous ways which can lower inground pool construction costs.
A fiberglass pool typically has the highest upfront cost but the lowest maintenance cost. They are quick to install, but because they're built from a mold the shape is not customizable (and they can't be wider than 16 feet). A vinyl pool has the lowest installation cost and can be built to any size and shape.
Fiberglass pools need the least maintenance, and they cost the least ($3,750 over 10 years).
A 'Smart' Pool is Smart!
A smart pool works exactly how its name implies– by working with all the latest technology to allow you to control pool settings (like lights and temperature) from the convenience of your smartphone.
Vinyl Means Lower Maintenance
Modern vinyl liners are extremely durable. Vinyl is a nonporous surface which means it won't require as many chemicals as a concrete pool. Vinyl's smooth surface also makes it harder for contaminants like algae to take hold and wreak havoc on your pool.
While they are easier to install, fiberglass pools are nowhere near as durable as a gunite inground pool. The inside surface of this type pool is a gel coat on which the fiberglass has been laminated. The walls of the pool are only ½ to ⅜ inch thick compared to the 8 to 10 inch thickness of a gunite pool.
Saltwater Pools Come With Health and Environmental Concerns
Providers have also linked higher heart mortality risks to sodium absorption through the skin, particularly among people with: High blood pressure.
Chlorine pools are more traditional and are also cheaper than most saltwater pools. However, they can be more difficult to maintain over time. Because there is no generator making chlorine, you will need to add chlorine into the pool on your own.
In general, the most common inground pool sizes are: 5-10 ft long (spa size) 10-15 ft.
A 12x24 foot pool has a surface area that covers 288 feet, so it should be big enough for your needs based on this rough calculation.
Stainless steel pools are generally similar or a tad more expensive than the same size concrete or plaster pool. It is a higher quality, more durable material, so it costs more. Although, over the long term, you may save money as you won't be repairing the pool, and you'll spend less on its maintenance.
Steel is naturally tough and rigid, which makes it a perfect choice for something that has to hold thousands of gallons of heavy water, like, say, a pool. But steel pools will eventually rust! Yes, they will.
Vinyl pools can be any depth. A common depth for pools in the deep end is about 12 feet, which is deep enough for diving. However, if your pool is large enough, you can go deeper.