Contrasting the Upsides and Downsides of Fiberglass vs Vinyl Pool Construction
Decisions, decisions, decisions; this is a familiar refrain by many homeowners whenever they are faced with making a major purchase and/or investment in their home/property. Although they are certain about what they need or want – new kitchen appliances, patio furniture, a snow blower – there are customarily several styles, sizes, and models from which to choose, hence complicating matters before they eventually make that purchase.
This scenario can certainly play out when the homeowner has decided to take the plunge (pun intended) and have an in-ground swimming pool installed in their backyard. While there is no question that they want the enjoyment and entertainment afforded them by a pool, they will need to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of the various types of pool construction before settling on the material and design that best suits their personal needs and preferences as well as those of their family members.
Therefore, to aid homeowners who may be facing a dilemma, currently or in the future, over the type of pool construction they want for their backyard, the following comparison is offered to highlight the similarities and differences in fiberglass and vinyl-liner pools.
The Upsides
Vinyl Pool Construction
- Lower installation cost
- Shorter installation time
- Surface is a non-abrasive material
- Can customize its size, shape, design
- Vinyl is non-porous – resists algae growth
- Liners available in many colours and patterns
- Requires less maintenance (fewer pool chemicals)
Fiberglass Pool Construction
- Pre-cast forms – rather quick to install
- Non-porous surface is resistant to algae
- Pre-molded steps/seats are often included
- Available in a wide variety of colour finishes
- Better resistance to bleaching or colour-fading
- Maintenance costs are lower over the long-term
The Downsides
Vinyl Pool Construction
- Vinyl liners will require replacement every several years
- Repeated exposure to chemicals/sunlight can cause fading
- Some forms of liner damage are not covered under warranties
Fiberglass Pool Construction
- Initial installation costs will run higher
- Pre-molded format limits depth, width, and shape options
- Needs regular (weekly) cleaning/chemicals to protect its finish
Clearly, homeowners will enjoy significant short-term and long-term benefits regardless of the type of pool construction they opt to pursue. Individual variables such as the cost of installation, degree of customization, and an aversion to maintenance will undoubtedly have an influence on their ultimate decision.
The Various Signs That an Inevitable Vinyl Liner Replacement is on the Horizon
If the choice of an in-ground pool favours one of vinyl construction, it should essentially be a foregone conclusion that the liner will immediately begin its decline toward eventual replacement within a few years of its initial installation; and this will likely continue on a similar schedule over the life of the pool (this is like saying that a new car depreciates in value as soon as it is driven off the lot for the first time).
In fact, the average lifespan of a vinyl pool liner is commonly estimated as 8 to 12 years. Some of the usual signs that a vinyl liner replacement is on the horizon would include:
- Age
- Colour fade
- General wear-and-tear
- Rumpled or sagging appearance
- Inability to maintain consistent water levels
- Repairs of gashes, tears, leaks will not take/hold
The team from Jones Pools has been successfully installing and replacing the vinyl liners of in-ground swimming pools for more than 20 years. These knowledgeable and skilled installers recognize the inherent value in the correct installation of a vinyl liner, and are fully committed to ensuring that all such constructions and installations are completed in an appropriate and professional manner to deliver maximum performance and longevity (optimal return on investment).
Go to our Construction Methods page for further information on the vinyl pool construction and vinyl liner replacement services available from the specialists at Jones Pools.
Deliberating over the installation of an in-ground swimming pool for your backyard this year? Call the pool construction experts from Jones Pools today at 905-642-9522 or contact us for to discuss the merits of vinyl and fiberglass pools, specific to your needs and the dimensions of your property, and to obtain a no-obligation estimate to construct your new pool.
