All You Need to Know About Inground Pools

With summer already here many people are looking for ways to cool down. For many people a pool is a great option. The main decision to make once you plan on building a pool is whether to build an inground or above ground pool. The variety that inground pools offer in terms of shape makes them a popular choice.

Before installing your pool, look for the ideal location in your backyard to place the pool. Cost will also be an important determining factor in the type of inground pool to build. There is more than one type of inground pool. Pool types are typically based on the material used to make them.

Fiberglass Pools

The least expensive type of inground pool you can buy. They come in various sizes and shapes and are installed as one-piece units. The basin of the pool is shaped by molding reinforced plastic into the desired shape. They are quick and easy to install because they are pre-formed before shipment.

Fiberglass inground pools also need less chemical treatment because fiberglass does not change the composition of water. In the long-term this results in lower maintenance costs. Overall they are also easier to maintain.

Gunite Inground Pools

The most expensive type, they are permanent fixtures. In fact they are also referred to as concrete inground pools because they are made from sprayed concrete mix. This is then covered with another coating of either a special paint or plastic.

This type of inground pool allows the owner to design their own shape and style. Full customization makes them more popular. Making gunite pools is generally more labor-intensive than other types of inground pools. A big factor in their popularity is the fact that they are very durable. Nonetheless there is the need to resurface the pool periodically.

Vinyl (PVC) Inground Pools

These are made from reinforced shells and lined with vinyl. They tend to be the least expensive type depending on the amount of excavation required. They can cost more than fiberglass if a lot of excavation is needed prior to installation. Unlike other types of inground pools, vinyl-lined pools are not as durable.

Owners have control over many aspects of these pools since there is a wide variety of colors and designs of the vinyl liner. There are also many different shapes to choose from, such as standard kidney-shape, L-shape or Grecian shape.

The vinyl will eventually become damaged over time and leaks will develop. The vinyl liner needs to be replaced every ten years or so. The frequency of replacement depends on the location of pool and how often it is used.

Benefits of Having an Inground Pool

Pools are designed primarily for the enjoyment of family and friends. Apart from this, they provide a great way to exercise without having to leave the comfort of home. Few exercises provide such a complete workout as swimming.

An inground pool tends to increase the value of your property. In general people looking to purchase a home will tend to favor one with an inground pool. In fact, in the real estate business, a pool is sometimes referred to as adding "backyard appeal" to a property.