Customization

Gunite is highly customizable. Utilizing gunite allows pool owners to create whatever design they desire.

Duriblity 

With proper maintenance, gunite pools can last for decades without any major renovations or repairs. 

Maintenance

Gunite pools require the most maintenance. You will need to brush your pool regularly to prevent the buildup of algae. Caring for a gunite pool is more time-consuming than any other in-ground pool type.

Initial Costs

Gunite pools are fully constructed on-site. They are typically more expensive than vinyl or fiberglass pools 

Lifetime Cost

Gunite pools typically require resurfacing every ten years. Repairing the crack (if any) or re-tiling can also increase lifetime costs.

Installation Time

Gunite pools take the longest to build and may exceed two to three months, depending on your pool size and the features you select.

Customization

Fiberglass pool shells are prefabricated. Therefore, you may have to make some compromises on your initial design ideas. However, for basic designs or small pools, fiberglass can be your best choice.

Duriblity 

The pre-molded fiberglass pool shell has various layers of chopped fiberglass, which is reinforced with polyester resin, vinyl ester resin, and glass mesh materials for added strength. Since their first debut, fiberglass pools have come a long way and can sometimes surpass the durability of concrete pools.

Maintenance

Fiberglass pools are ideal for a saltwater system since there is no metal incorporated that could turn to rust. Waterline cleaning or brushing is relatively easy in comparison to concrete. The risk of algae growth is limited.

Initial Costs

The initial investment in a fiberglass pool is similar to gunite and higher than vinyl. You also need to pay the delivery costs to get the pool shell from the factory to your home.

Lifetime Cost

Fiberglass pools are extremely durable, which makes them hard to break. They are flexible and tough with the right installation, and if damages do occur, they are typically easy to repair. Since they need no replacements or resurfacing, upkeep costs are minimum.

Installation Time

One of the biggest benefits of fiberglass pools is how quickly they can be obtained. Once the shell arrives, installation takes very little time.

Customization

Vinyl pools are highly flexible and customizable, which means you can incorporate a wide array of design elements. Although most pools are rectangular, you can get a custom-built pool with fluid lines or eccentric curves.

Duriblity 

Technological advancements have made vinyl pool liner structures much more durable than in the past. However, getting the right thickness is crucial as the liner could tear easily.

Maintenance

Vinyl may require more care. The effects of direct sunlight for prolonged periods may cause the liner to sag or make the surface wrinkly. On the other hand, brushing or sweeping is relatively more relaxed as there is fewer algae buildup.