What Kind of Pool Is Best for Your Family?

Making the decision to install an in-ground pool on your property is a big one. It’ll take no small sum of money, combined with construction phases and some serious planning to ensure you end up with exactly what you envision. And while many homeowners are stuck worrying about the cost or the construction-related disruption, it’s also important to consider the type of pool you want before everything gets set in motion.

Most don’t realize it, but there is no “regular” type of pool. The variables are broad and diverse when it comes to what you might need or want from your pool. And when you start speaking one-on-one with a pool contractor in Los Angeles, CA, they’re going to ask you questions you might never have even considered about your family’s dream pool—starting with what type of pool you want.

Understanding Your Options

The “type” of pool you want refers to how the pool itself is constructed. You might know that you want a 12’ x 20’ rectangular pool or that you want an attached hot tub, but do you know what type of liner material you want or what construction material is right?

Choosing the ideal “type” of pool for you and your family means knowing the options and understanding each. Let’s take a look at the common three types of pools and which you might end up leaning towards:

Vinyl liner pools

These pools are the value pick. They cost the least amount of money to install and maintain, lasting a moderate amount of time to give you a simple, smart investment. Best of all, vinyl won’t limit your pool design. If you want curves or accents, vinyl can be conformed to them, for a seamless pool design that’s beautiful and effective.

The downfall? Vinyl liners need to be replaced every 5 to 7 years or they’ll deteriorate away. Vinyl can also look “cheaper” in comparison to other pool options.

Concrete pools

Also called “gunite” pools, concrete pools are strong, sturdy and value-additive to your property. They’re a great middle-of-the-road option because they cost more than vinyl, yet will stand the test of time. They’re also very diverse and easily customized.

The drawback of concrete, as any pool contractor in Los Angeles, CA will tell you, is the resurfacing process that’s needed every 8 to 10 years and the rough surface of the pool itself. They also take a long time to build!

Fiberglass pools

Fiberglass is a top-tier choice with a price to match. These pools require the least amount of maintenance and last for years without major service requirements. They can also be installed in a flash compared to other options. They look crisp and luxurious, and are absolutely a value-add for your property.

The chief downfall of fiberglass pools is that they’re premanufactured, meaning the entire pool needs to be transported to your property for installation! This can get tricky if there’s not a lot of space to maneuver in your yard. Cost is also a setback—expect to pay top dollar. Finally, you’re limited by design to what a manufacturer already creates.

Bring Home the Right Option

When you’re planning a swimming pool investment, look beyond the shape or size you want and think instead about the value you’re going to get for your investment. Consider the above three options for your family’s pool, so when the time comes to meet with a contractor, you’ll already have an idea of where you stand.