Fiberglass pool shapes include freeform, kidney, rectangular, and roman.
Fiberglass pools come in many sizes, from 10-by-20 foot pools to 16-by-40 foot pools. Some are similar in size to a cocktail pool, or may be a bit larger. There are different terms for these smaller-sized pools, which might also be plunge pools or spools, which are spa-like pools.
The most significant disadvantage of a fiberglass pool is the limitation on pool shapes and sizes. If you are looking for a large pool with multiple bodies of water or want a swim-up bar with bar stools built into the structure, then the fiberglass pool may not be the right choice for you.
Fiberglass pools are extremely easy to maintain, can be installed quickly, are very durable, and can be beautifully designed. However, their initial cost can be higher than vinyl liner pools, and the shapes and sizes are not as customizable.
Rectangle. While rectangles are not the most creative pool shape, they are one of the most common and classic pool shapes. Most apartment buildings or skyscrapers, due to lack of space, tend to adopt this form for their pools.
Rectangular pools with perfect 90-degree corners have been around for decades. They are ideal for swimming laps or engaging in other types of water exercise. The familiar shape conveys a sense of formality, as well as a sleek, modern feel. For greater design options, rectangles can be modified.
Most modern swimming pools are rectangular in shape. Kidney shape and curved pools were hugely popular in the 80s. It's up to you what shape you choose, but rectangular pools provide maximum pool space.
Because we do have to haul the swimming pool to your home, fiberglass pools are usually no wider than 16 feet. Any larger than this, and we would go beyond the oversize load limit, which would make it much harder to deliver the pool. Most fiberglass pools are also no longer than about 40 feet for similar reasons.
The most durable out of the three, fiberglass pools can last over 30 years. Unlike the above two pool types, they do not require resurfacing of the interior or replacing the lining.
Gunite pools use a rebar framework that is sprayed over with a concrete and sand mixture. Gunite is exceedingly durable, so swimming pools made of this substance are built to last. The versatility of gunite swimming pools means more than the ability to create an unlimited array of shapes.
Square pools are an ideal choice for a backyard that's considered to be on the smaller side. While you might lack the space for a large swimming pool, a square pool will transform a small backyard or accent a lush garden. These pools take up less space than a rectangular pool and are an attractive addition.
Lower upfront costs - Vinyl liner pools are known as the cheapest inground pools to build. Customizable shape - Choose from freeform, geometric, or even custom designs.
The most common choice for swimming pool sizes is a pool that's 18 feet by 36 feet. This will give you enough room to swim around and play games without even up to eight people in it crowded too closely together. This is often recommended for rectangular pools.
For either a custom-built pool or a prebuilt liner shape, the most affordable inground pools are those with the least-interesting shape—those with a rectangle or an oval shape will generally be the most inexpensive.
Typically, a long, rectangular pool is based for laps since it lets you swim in a straight line. A rounded pool would be better for lounging and for recreational swims. These pools are usually smaller and do not have a straight path for swimming laps.
The Lazy L Swimming Pool has more organic shapes, less defined angles, and curved lines. Families love it because of the clear separation of the deep end and shallow end. The shallow end has more slanting edges/curves, making it easier to hide pool steps.
Fiberglass pools can craze or check crack from imprecise manufacturing or when the surface is not fully supported, like under the steps or areas where the backfill is eroded. Gelcoat can also crack during transport and installation if it gets bumped around too much.
Some of the most common include that this pool type floats or pops up, that they look cheap, that they only work in warm climates, that they are are lot more expensive than vinyl liner pools, and that they cannot be customized. Unfortunately, many people shy away from fiberglass pools because they believe these myths.
A Common Gripe About Fiberglass Pools
One of the biggest gripes that we see have to do with the slippery surface of a fiberglass pool. The fact is, this material can be so slick that pool users can actually slip and fall. This can be a real problem for pool steps, where a slip-and-fall accident can be dangerous.