| |
Fiberglass |
Gunite/Concrete |
Vinyl |
| Warranty |
Lifetime |
1-4 years |
Liner Seams |
| Installation Time |
2-3 days |
6-12 weeks |
2-3 weeks |
| Chemicals |
Substantially fewer chemicals used; less algae |
Plaster reacts with water PH levels; gunite pools use substantially more acid & chlorine to counterbalance this chemical reaction; harbors algae. |
More chlorine and need algaecide |
| Surface Texture |
Smooth, non-abrasive to skin or swimsuits. Walking/seating area textured for slip resistance. |
Rough. Causes abrasions to feet, hands, and swimwear. |
Slippery. Easily punctured by toys, pets, or surfacing rocks. |
| Resurfacing |
Never |
Plaster every 5 to 7 years |
Vinyl liner replacement at 7 years |
| Stairs and Seating |
Built into pool shell. Some models have seats at both ends. |
Optional and additional cost |
Optional and additional cost |
| Type of Coping |
Fiberglass |
Concrete |
Aluminum subject to corrosion |
| Loan Acceptance |
Excellent |
Good |
Fair |
