There are plenty of factors to consider when you’re planning to build a pool. After thinking about size, shape, style and budget, you also need to think about your pool material options. The material you choose will determine comfort, safety, durability, appearance, among other things. You’ve finally decided to build your pool and research pool materials and became confused. Here are some pool material options in the market.

Pool Material Options - Four Common Types

Concrete (Gunite)

Concrete pools are the most popular type of pool. They’re also often referred to as Gunite or shotcrete pools: and that’s because the building process involves shooting wet concrete through a hose onto walls that have been reinforced by steel. The concrete is then given ample time to cure; it’s plastered, smoothened and finally painted.

Their greatest advantage is the absolute freedom of design. Your options are virtually limitless. The only thing that may hold you back is the skill and competence of the pool builder you hire for the job. The installation will usually take about three to 12 weeks, which is longer than other types, but concrete pools are considered the strongest and most durable type of pool material. And unlike other types of pools, concrete pools can be refinished, rebuilt, enlarged or updated.

Vinyl

Vinyl pools are the second most popular type of in-ground pool, and they’re increasingly growing in popularity. These types of pools are made from a single-piece flexible liner that fitted into a hole that’s been excavated. The liner is then attached to an aluminum or steel-framed wall. Vinyl pools come in several shapes and sizes and most are rectangular, L-shape and free-form liners. The installation time for a vinyl pool is about one to three weeks. One of the significant drawbacks of vinyl pools is that sharp objects, pointy pool toys and playful dogs can puncture or rip the liner.

Fiberglass

Fiberglass pools are the most affordable type of inground pool and can be installed in as little as three days. They’re factory molded into giant bowled shapes, which are then set into a hole that has been excavated. Shapes and sizes are somewhat limited, but they have a super smooth finish that’s non-porous and extremely durable. Another benefit is that fiberglass pools is that you’re going to need fewer chemicals than a concrete pool.

Ceramic Pool Tiles

Ceramic tile flooring is easy to clean because the dirt slides off the ceramics and the flooring is difficult to stain. Maintenance tasks simply involve sweeping or vacuuming them every so often with water. One other significant benefit of ceramic tiles is that they don’t get easily damaged by chemicals. Moreover, even when exposed to harsh elements like dirt or sunlight, they won’t fade.

Generally, all pool material options are readily available, but certain types are more common in some regions. So before settling on a particular kind of pool, contact several contractors in your area and find out which type they install. Some options may be limited in some regions. Understanding the installation time, durability and cost of different pool material options allows you to make a wiser decision once you’ve decided to build your pool.