Prefabricated inground pools, most commonly known as fiberglass pools, are fully manufactured before they ever leave the factory. Conversely, concrete structure pools are built on location from the ground up, and require a vinyl pool liner to protect swimmers from the rough concrete surface.

How long does a prefab pool last?

A fiberglass pool is expected to last up to more than 25 years – the reason they are the most low-cost option in the long run. Their surface does not support algae growth and resists stain, which means maintenance cost and hassle is significantly minimized.

What are the 3 types of pools?

In terms of materials, there are three basic types of inground pools: vinyl-lined, concrete, and fiberglass.

Are prefab pools cheaper?

Yes. Fiberglass pools are 10 to 20 percent cheaper to install than a concrete pool. Fiberglass pools are also cheaper to maintain in the long run.

How deep are prefab pools?

On pools that are 35′ to 44′ long the depths can go anywhere from 3 ½’ to 8 ½’ deep. There are a few companies that make fiberglass sport pools where the pool has a V bottom and is 3 ½’ deep on both end of the pool and 5 ½’ deep in the middle of the pool.

What is the downside of fiberglass pools?

The cons associated with fiberglass pools are primarily related to cost and installation issues. Contrary to popular belief, fiberglass pools aren’t cheaper than traditional options like concrete (we’ll provide more details in the “Costs” section later on).

Why fiberglass pools are bad?

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.

How much is a 16x32 inground pool?

Pool Size (feet)Price14x28$19,600 – $48,75016×32$25,600 – $66,56018×36$32,400 – $84,24020×40$40,000 – $104,000

How much does a 12x24 inground pool cost?

12×24 Inground Pool Cost A 12-foot by 24-foot pool is considered medium-sized, and is suitable for swimming laps. The cost for this size, on average, will be between $26,000 and $38,000, depending on the type of material used.

What is the cheapest inground pool shape?

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.

Article first time published on

What type of pool lasts the longest?

It generally takes between three and 12 weeks to install a concrete pool. That’s longer than other types, but concrete is considered the strongest, most durable type of pool. And unlike other in-ground pools, existing concrete pools can be rebuilt, refinished, enlarged, or updated.

What pool shape is best?

Rectangular pools with perfect 90-degree corners have been around for decades. They are ideal for swimming laps or engaging in other types of water exercise. The familiar shape conveys a sense of formality, as well as a sleek, modern feel. For greater design options, rectangles can be modified.

How much does it cost to install a pool?

Pool installation cost will vary based on the type of pool you want and other specifications. Generally, inground pool prices commence at $35,000, while above ground pools cost from $4,000 up, and plunge pools cost upwards of $8,000.

What is the deepest above ground pool you can get?

The deepest above-ground pool available is the Intex 36-Foot by 16-Foot by 52-Inch Above-Ground Pool. The four-foot depth may not seem like a lot, but in the world of above-ground pools, it’s tough to find deeper floors.

Can you dive in an 8 foot pool?

A diving pool configuration requires a diving well that’s at least 8-foot deep to create a safe environment. It also needs to be built with a strategically graduated slope stretching from the shallow end to the deep area. As a result, the shallow-end space is limited.

What is the average size fiberglass pool?

Fiberglass pools are usually 20 ft. long by 10 ft. wide at the smallest, though they can sometimes be found as small as 15 ft.

Is a fiberglass pool worth the money?

Both are considered top-tier pool building materials. … That said, in terms of total cost of ownership, it’s worth noting that maintaining a fiberglass pool is generally cheaper. That’s because fiberglass is more algae resistant, and therefore could save you money on chemicals over the life of the pool.

Are fiberglass pools worth it?

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.

How often do you have to resurface a fiberglass pool?

It varies depending on the type of pool, with plaster or cement pools needing to be resurfaced every 3-7 years while fiberglass pools can sometimes go as long as 15-30 years.

What is the lifespan of a fiberglass pool?

A Pool That Lasts a Lifetime Most fiberglass pools are known to last 25-30 years, but we take that to the next level. Our manufacturer, Narellan Pools, makes the best fiberglass pools around. Their unique fiberglass formula results in a pool that can last as long as 50 years!

Can a fiberglass pool be salt water?

Fiberglass swimming pools are very compatible with salt water systems. … Salt water is abrasive on the interior surfaces of concrete/ gunite pools, especially those that have plaster within them. Many families report that they enjoy swimming within a pool that has a salt water system.

What is the average cost of a fiberglass pool installed?

A fiberglass pool costs $47,000 on average, with most homeowners spending between $24,333 and $70,000. Fiberglass pools cost $47,000 on average, with most homeowners spending between $24,333 to $70,000.

Does a pool increase home value?

It won’t be easy since a swimming pool can actually make your home harder to sell. Many buyers consider it a liability rather than a luxury. Under the right circumstances, however, a pool could boost your home’s value by as much as 7%, Houselogic estimates.

Is 20x40 a big pool?

Standard pool dimensions usually measure something like 10 x 20, 15 x 30, and 20 x 40, with an average depth around 5.5 feet. 10 x 20 is considered a small in-ground pool, while a 20 x 40-foot pool is on the larger side of things. … Therefore, it’s important to consider the shape of the pool that’ll best fit your needs.

What is a good size swimming pool?

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.

Is a 12x24 pool big enough?

A 12×24 foot pool has a surface area that covers 288 feet, so it should be big enough for your needs based on this rough calculation.

How long can you finance a pool?

How many years is a typical pool loan? With a personal loan or home equity loan, you can generally target the length of time to pay back your loan. This will usually be between two and 10 years. The longer the loan, the lower each month’s payment will be but the more interest you’ll pay overall.

What is a semi inground pool?

A semi inground pool is exactly what it sounds like: a swimming pool that is partially installed in the ground and partially installed above ground. Usually, most of the pool is still inground, but part of the pool will be raised a few feet or more.

Which is better a salt or chlorine pool?

Lower chlorine levels make saltwater pools gentler on skin and eyes. … Chlorine levels in saltwater pools are enough to disinfect, but not enough to fade expensive swimwear and gear. Because of the natural chlorine, saltwater pools require fewer chemicals (and less attention) compared to chlorinated pools.

Is a pool a bad investment?

Resale Value A pool can increase not only your social worth but also the value of your home. However, the increase is probably not as much as you think. According to HouseLogic, there’s no real guarantee that you’ll make your money back. In fact, adding a swimming pool may only increase your home’s value by 7%.

How can I afford a pool?

1. Finance a swimming pool through a bank. …
2. Use a credit union to borrow funds for a pool. …
3. Pay for all or part of the construction with a credit card. …
4. Finance your backyard resort with a home-equity loan. …
5. Draw against a home equity line of credit (HELOC).