Michigan Fiberglass Pools vs Vinyl inground pools Part 1

With Michigan summer in full throttle, you’re probably itching to say ‘yes’ to that pool.  However, you want to make sure you are choosing the right pool since swimming pool installation is a big financial decision.

As there are three main pool options to choose from – fiberglass, vinyl liner, and concrete – it can be difficult to find an unbiased review and comparisons for all three pool types.  That’s where Blocko Pools comes in!  As we have experience with construction, repair, and cleaning for all types of pools, our experts understand the nuances between options.  Want to know the pros and cons between fiberglass and vinyl inground pools?  Let’s get started:

Fiberglass Inground Pool Pros

• Easy & quick installation – All fiberglass pools come prefabricated, so installation is easy and quick in comparison to other pool types, such as vinyl inground pools. In just a couple of days, the entire installation process – including leveling and backfill – can be completed, whereas other process can take >2 weeks.
• Low maintenance costs – With a non-porous gel lining, fiberglass pool liners are easy to clean. Say goodbye to algae build-up and chemical absorption and more money in the wallet and time spent in your new pool!

Fiberglass Inground Pool Cons

• Limited design options – Although installation is quick and easy because of pool delivery in one piece (prefabricated), design options are somewhat limited. Trucks must be able to transport the manufactured pool, which affects customization and size.
• Difficult color matching – Fiberglass pools are sturdy but when they need to be repaired, matching the color of a liner can be difficult. Because of this, filled cracks and patches may be a slightly different color than the original coating.

Vinyl Inground Pool Pros

• Inexpensive installation – If you’re looking for a cost-friendly pool option, the vinyl inground pool is the cheapest to install initially. Start-up costs are low and are easy on your wallet.
• Increased customization – Vinyl inground pools do not come prefabricated like fiberglass pools, so there are few design and size limitations. It’s easy to re-create the pool of your dreams with a vinyl liner pool.

Vinyl Inground Pool Cons

• Fragile liner, minimal warranties – Vinyl pools require more repairs than other pool types. With having to replace the liner every 5-7 years, these pools typically have minimal warranties and lower resale values than fiberglass inground pools.
• High lifetime cost – Due to increased repairs and limited vinyl pool warranties, the lifetime cost of a vinyl pool is higher than other pool types. Expect to spend ~$5,000 every 5-7 years for liner replacement.

As fiberglass pools are simple to install, they have limited design options and vinyl inground pools have low upfront costs & better customization but have a higher lifetime cost than other pool types.  Both fiberglass and vinyl inground pools have their pros and cons; ultimately the choice is up to you!  If you’re having a hard time choosing between a fiberglass or vinyl pool, contact your local Blockco expert about pool solutions to fit our needs.