The main budget-friendly inground pool options include fiberglass and vinyl pools. These pools are more affordable compared to concrete.
Overall, vinyl liner pools are the cheapest inground swimming pools that money can buy. It's rare to find a pool builder who can build a concrete or fiberglass pool at a vinyl liner pool price. This does not mean that vinyl liner pools are never expensive.
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.
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.
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.
Fiberglass pools have a gel coating that can develop hairline cracks over time. These cracks typically only penetrate the gel coat and do not affect the pool's structural integrity, nor do they indicate leaks. If you see blisters as well as cracks, this is a sign that the gel coating was applied too thinly.
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.
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.
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.
In general, the most common inground pool sizes are: 5-10 ft long (spa size) 10-15 ft.
When it comes to construction, take note: Rectangular pools typically cost more than curved pools. The reason why is increased perimeter footage. Rectangles may require more square footage in a backyard. ... If you plan on including a pool cover, a rectangle is an excellent choice.
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.
Is a fiberglass or vinyl liner pool better for me? Vinyl liner pools typically cost about $10,000 less than fiberglass pools upfront. However, they need the liner replaced every 5–9 years and tend to look cheap. Fiberglass pools are much more durable, need less maintenance, and look classy.
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.
Gunite pools have been around since the '60s and are the most durable pool finish due to being made from concrete. The pool's structure consists of a steel rebar frame coated with a mix of cement, white sand or marble aggregate, and water.
Concrete pools cost $50,000 or more and require expensive long-term maintenance. They can be any shape but take 3–6 months to install. Vinyl liner pools cost $25,000 or more and need the liner replaced every 5–9 years. They take 3–6 weeks to install but tend to look cheap.
Yes. Solar pool heaters, electric heat pumps, and gas heaters should all work just fine with vinyl liner, fiberglass, and concrete swimming pools.
If we're talking about the structure of the pool, it can last for almost 35 years (as long as it's not wood). The liner itself, however, will need to be replaced much earlier. Vinyl liners have a lifespan of about 5-9 years.
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.
Fiberglass swimming pools are very compatible with salt water systems. If you are using a vinyl liner pool, you must be careful as those pools tend to have metal parts or connections which salt will eat through and corrode.
Big disclaimer: only authorized fiberglass pool professionals should drain a pool. Never drain a pool without professional assistance. For most (if not all) pool manufacturers, an authorized dealer must drain the pool, or you may void your warranty.