Gunite Vs. Fiberglass: Which Pool is Better?

It's never too soon to begin preparing for the best season of the year, even though swimming season may be a several months away! In summer, most of us enjoy swimming, whether it is in the ocean, a river, or the neighbor’s backyard pool. You need to start planning NOW, if you want a swimming pool built in backyard, in time for summer. So taking that into account, let's consider two of the most popular swimming pool construction materials: fiberglass and gunite.

Fiberglass pools are known to most people as being more traditional, but many top manufacturers have made advances in construction design to keep them at the forefront of the industry. A fiberglass pool is made up of a fiberglass resin formed into the desired shape of the "tub" of the pool. A hole is prepared for the pre-shaped pool to be placed in, and it is fitted with plumbing. When the pool has been correctly positioned, it is back filled with sand and dirt, and the job is usually finished by pouring a concrete deck around the pool.

Price is the advantage in the construction of a fiberglass pool. The manufacturer has the ability to design and build the pool in their own warehouse, allowing them to work in the most efficient environment possible. For those people searching for a standard looking pool to add a touch of class to their property, fiberglass can be a great choice.

Fiberglass pools are also very durable and easy to maintain. There are a few drawbacks to a fiberglass pool, but it does have many advantages. Most fiberglass pools come only in a standard rectangular shape and have depth and shape limitations. A pool of gunite is a better choice, if you want a custom designed pool which accents the space in your yard in a more unique way.

The most sought-after form of pools in the U.S. are made of gunite. The construction of a gunite pool begins when a company digs the shape of the pool to a specified depth, adds the plumbing, and then creates a grid of rebar to form the sides and bottom of the pool. Similar to laying concrete, the company then pours and shapes the gunite, composed of concrete and sand, into and around the rebar. Then, before he finishes, the installer will go around the entire pool with a layer of plaster to create a smooth, clean finish. Last, a concrete or wooden deck is erected around the pool.

By using gunite, homeowners can have any shape of pool they wish for. The best material for a look that is custom, or an endless pool that is commonly found in luxury homes, is gunite. Custom pools that look like natural swimming holes, such as those you may have seen in luxury homes magazines, are made of gunite. A disadvantage of such a great looking pool is the expense. Gunite pools are generally very long-lasting, although the plaster will need to be replaced every 10-15 years.

Remember, it's important to consult a professional pool design firm before committing to a pool you want; the decision will be affecting you for many years. Consider the surroundings of the pool, and what kind of pool would look best in that setting, as well as meet your special requirements. Pay attention to your budget: custom pools can cost a lot of money. Lastly, you should relish the experience--when the work is over you and your family will have a fantastic addition to your home, to enjoy in the years to come.