If you’re a homeowner; you have probably entertained the thought of getting a swimming pool installed. However, installing a new swimming pool is a big project that involves more than just looking at pictures and deciding where to put it. This is why it is highly encouraged that you hire an experienced pool sales professional to come to your home; show you all your options and give you a free estimate.
Here are different types of pools that you can consider for your home:
Concrete And Gunite Pools
Concrete and gunite (reinforced concrete) are the most common in-ground pool types because they have been on the market longer than the new, more efficient types of pools.
Concrete and gunite are sprayed over a framework of steel rods and wire mesh, then coated with plaster to give the pool a smooth finished surface. Today, concrete and gunite pools are most commonly used for commercial and public swimming pools.
The nice thing about concrete and gunite pools is that you can virtually build them in any shape or form that you wish. Unfortunately, it is the most expensive of pool types and it takes a long time to build.
Furthermore, concrete and gunite is porous, therefore providing small areas for algae and bacteria to grow. In addition, it can easily crack and chip with the change of the temperature and weather conditions, providing even more areas for algae and bacteria to grow. This is why concrete and gunite pools require the most maintenance of the pool types.
Concrete and gunite pools require periodic annual pool draining for cleaning. When the pool is drained, the cracks in the concrete and gunite need to be repaired and the pool siding acid-washed and perhaps plastered, if necessary. Acid washing is necessary every one to three years, depending on water condition. Acid washing does remove a layer of plaster; so after the second acid wash you can expect to replace the plaster on the pool.
Fiberglass Pools
Fiberglass pools are made out of a seamless one-piece, pre-formed fiberglass container that is set in the ground and can be installed in less than five days. The fiberglass itself has a smooth, non-porous gelcoat surface.
Although fiberglass pools have a wide range of sizes and shapes, and can be moved if you choose, you are restricted to those sizes and shapes that are offered, unlike a concrete or gunite pool. You’ll rarely find a fiberglass pool over sixteen feet in width because the come from the factory ready to install in one piece.
Fiberglass pools are appealing because they require much less maintenance than either of the other pool types. Fiberglass will not rip, tear, crack, chip or leak, providing a longer-lasting surface. The durability of fiberglass is especially important if you live in a cold weather climate in which surface materials contract and expand.
Because a fiberglass is non-porous, algae and bacteria cannot stick to the surface. This reduces the amount of chlorine necessary to keep the pool clean to about one-fourth of the amount that other pools use, which can add up to large cost savings over time.
Fiberglass pools never require draining for cleaning, which is a huge chore. In addition, to clean the fiberglass surface, all you need to do is vacuum the bottom of the pool, which takes only 10-15 minutes a week.
Vinyl Liner Pools
Vinyl liner pools use a high-density vinyl lining, offering a cosmetic textured pool surface. The lining is seamed together throughout the sides of the pool. Polymer or steel walls are bolted and fastened together on concrete flooring. The vinyl liner is spread over the floor and paneled walls and connected to the top of the walls by a vinyl rib at the outside edge of the liner.
The up front cost of vinyl lined pools can be inexpensive when compared with concrete and gunite pools and take much less time to install. However, the maintenance on vinyl lined pools is high because the liner can be easily scratched or torn, especially if there will be toys or hard objects in the pool; pets can even put a small tear in the lining. You can not repair a vinyl lined pool, you’ll need to replace the entire lining, which can cost from $1,500 to $2,500 or more.
Also, algae and bacteria tend to nest in the porous texture of the fabric and seams of the vinyl, requiring high amounts of chlorine to keep the pool clean. It is kind of like a shower curtain that is exposed to moisture and heat on a consistent basis.
Above Ground Pools
These are the most inexpensive construction option, easiest to install and the most affordable to maintain. Most above-ground pools are made from prefabricated kits, which even an amateur can put together although most go with professional pool installers.
SameDayPros helps you to find the nearest on-demand pool services provider who might be serving in your local area. Browse profiles, check reviews and photos and connect with the pool service professionals instantly to setup your new swimming pool today.
