Topic: Financing
Best Pool Financing Companies for Fiberglass Pool Projects
If you’re comparing pool financing companies, you’re probably trying to answer the practical question of which lender or financing path makes the most sense for your project, your budget, and your timeline. This guide breaks down several common options homeowners consider, including specialty pool loan companies, general lenders, and home equity routes, so you can compare them with clearer expectations. Thursday Pools does not endorse one lender over another.
What to Look for in Pool Loan Companies
Before you compare lenders, it helps to understand the size of the project you may be financing. Many turnkey fiberglass pool projects fall within the $70,000 to $135,000 range, depending on size, access, geography, and extras. The right lender for your installation must have the right loan structure, funding process, and repayment terms for the full scope of the project.
Some companies that finance pools focus on unsecured loans. Others connect you to staged funding, builder-direct payments, or multiple loan options from lending partners. A few key questions can help narrow the field for your purposes fast:
- Do you want to avoid borrowing against your home?
- Do you need one lump sum or staged payments during construction?
- Do you care more about lower monthly payments or lower total interest?
- Do you have strong home equity, or would an unsecured option fit better?
Your financing choice often comes down to three things: how large the full project is, whether you want to borrow against home equity, and what payment range feels comfortable month to month.
Lyon Financial vs. HFS Financial for Pool Financing
Lyon Financial and HFS Financial both show up often in conversations about the best pool financing companies, but they structure their offers and products a little differently.
Lyon Financial focuses heavily on swimming pool lending, offering nationwide pool loans up to $200,000, terms up to 30 years, and builder-direct staged payments that the borrower approves during construction. The builder-payment model can appeal to homeowners who want funding to track the project schedule instead of receiving one lump sum upfront. Lyon also emphasizes unsecured options, which means no home equity requirement for many borrowers.
HFS Financial also focuses on pool and home improvement lending while emphasizing fixed-rate personal loans, no prepayment penalties, no home equity requirement, and terms from 1 to 20 years. HFS says it offers loan amounts from $5,000 to $300,000 on some programs and highlights direct-to-consumer funding, which gives homeowners more control over how they pay for the pool and related work. Homeowners can check prequalification through HFS without a hard credit pull.
Lyon may appeal more if you’d like staged builder payments and longer terms, while HFS may be more appealing if you want a fixed-rate unsecured loan with direct borrower control over funds. The right fit depends on how you want the money to move during your project.
LightStream and Other Lenders for Pool Loans
LightStream sits a little differently among pool lenders because it doesn’t focus only on pools. It offers unsecured loans for many types of projects. Swimming pool loan terms range from 24 to 240 months, and approved borrowers can get access to financing funds quickly.
That setup fits borrowers who want speed, a clean online process, and a lender that treats the pool as one type of home project rather than a specialized category.
LightStream works best for borrowers who want a fast, fully online process and do not need construction-stage draw payments tied to the builder schedule. The potential tradeoff is that general home-improvement lenders may not build their disbursement process around pool construction in the same way some pool-specific lenders do.
Viking Capital and Dealer-Connected Pool Loan Lenders
Viking Capital works differently from other pool financing companies by acting more like a consultant than a direct lender. Viking works with pool builders and financing partners to match borrowers with loan options that fit their project and credit profile.
With one application and a soft credit pull, borrowers can review options before committing. Viking offers unsecured loan terms up to 20 years for projects that typically start around $25,000, with up to 100% financing available on some pool builds. It also uses a draw schedule that sends payments directly to the builder as the project moves forward instead of releasing one lump sum at closing.
Viking’s structure may appeal to homeowners who want financing tied more closely to construction progress. The tradeoff is transparency, as rates are not published upfront. They are disclosed during the consultation process based on your credit profile and loan structure. Ask for the full term sheet, including rate, fees, repayment term, and disbursement schedule.
Swimming Pool Financing Companies vs. Home Equity Options
Not every buyer ends up using specialized swimming pool financing companies. Some choose a home equity loan or home equity line of credit (HELOC) through a bank or credit union instead.
The choice usually comes down to a simple tradeoff. Home equity products may offer lower rates, but they take longer, involve more paperwork, and use your home as collateral. Specialized pool loan companies may move faster and offer unsecured loans, but the rates can run higher. If speed matters most, lender-direct or dealer-connected pool financing may win out for you. If long-term borrowing cost matters most, home equity deserves a close look.
How to Compare the Best Pool Financing Companies
Advertised rates only tell you part of the story. Before you choose between pool financing companies, compare:
- Maximum loan amount
- Loan term length
- Fixed vs. variable rate
- Unsecured vs. home-secured structure
- Staged payments vs. lump-sum funding
- Prepayment penalties
- Speed to approval and funding
Because many fiberglass pool projects fall in the $70,000 to $135,000 range, lender fit matters just as much as headline pricing. A lender that works well for a smaller home project may not work as well for a larger pool-and-patio budget. Some lenders let you check prequalification without a hard credit pull. HFS allows you to check if you’re prequalified without impacting your credit.
Compare Your Pool Financing Options Before You Apply
Before you choose between pool financing companies, run the math on the full project. Try out the Thursday Pools Financing Calculator to estimate possible payments based on loan amount, rate, and term. Then connect with a local independent dealer to talk through your pool plans, site conditions, and the financing paths that make the most sense for your budget.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pool Financing Companies
What companies offer financing for swimming pools?
- Several known pool financing companies and lenders offer options for swimming pools, including:
- Lyon Financial
- HFS Financial
- LightStream
- Viking Capital
- Some buyers also use home equity loans or HELOCs through banks and credit unions. The biggest difference is that some lenders specialize in pools, while others offer broader home-improvement loans that can be used for pool projects.
What credit score do you need for pool financing?
- Requirements vary, but many lenders prefer scores in the 680 to 700 range or higher. Some programs may work with borrowers in the mid-600s, especially if the overall credit profile is strong. Better credit usually improves both approval odds and pricing.
How much can you finance for a swimming pool?
- Loan amounts vary by lender, income, credit, and project type, ranging from about $20,000 on the low end to $200,000 or $300,000 on some programs. Try the Thursday Pools Financing Calculator to test various payment scenarios before you apply.
Is it better to finance a pool through a lender or home equity?
- Pool lenders often move faster and may offer unsecured loans, which means you do not have to borrow against your home. Home equity loans and HELOCs often offer lower rates, but they usually take longer and require sufficient home equity. The better option depends on whether you value speed, lower rates, or keeping your home out of the financing structure.
Pool Financing Options: How to Choose the Right Path for Your Fiberglass Pool
If you’re researching pool financing options, you’re probably asking a practical question, not a dreamy one: How do I make this work without stretching my budget too far? That’s exactly where smart pool financing starts. Most homeowners do not pay for a fiberglass pool one way alone. They compare options, weigh tradeoffs, and choose the path that fits their savings, equity, timeline, and comfort with monthly payments.
How to Finance a Pool: Start With the Full Project Budget
Before you compare pool financing options, get clear on the total project. Fiberglass pool pricing depends on pool size, site conditions, access, geography, patio and landscaping choices, and add-ons like heaters, covers, lighting, and fencing. That matters because the best financing options for a $60,000 project may not be the best options for an $85,000 or $120,000 backyard project.
Pool Loan Options and Personal Loans
When people ask how to finance a pool, pool loans usually come up first. In practice, these often work like unsecured personal loans. That can make them useful for buyers who want speed or who do not want to borrow against their home. The tradeoff is cost. Unsecured loans often carry higher rates and lower borrowing limits than equity-based options.
This route can make sense when you want a simple approval process, you have strong credit, or you need funding that works well alongside other sources. It can also help if you want to move quickly on the construction timing. Specialty pool lenders may offer larger unsecured loan amounts and longer terms, but your rate and approval still depend on credit, income, and overall financial profile.
Swimming Pool Financing Options: Home Equity Loan vs. HELOC
For many homeowners, the best way to finance a pool comes down to home equity. A home equity loan gives you a fixed amount borrowed against your home’s equity. That structure works well when you know your project budget and want predictable payments.
A home equity line of credit (HELOC) works differently. It gives you a line of credit that you can draw from as needed, with flexibility that can help when your project includes staged expenses like decking, landscaping, fencing, or later upgrades.
The tradeoff with both options is simple. Rates often look better than unsecured loans, but your home secures the debt. You also need enough equity to qualify, and you may face appraisal, closing, or lender fees depending on the product.
Ways to Finance a Pool With Cash-Out Refinancing or Dealer Financing
A cash-out refinance replaces your current mortgage with a larger one and gives you the difference in cash. This option can help homeowners tap equity for improvements, but it can also extend repayment and increase risk if payments become too heavy. It usually makes the most sense when rates are favorable, and you have meaningful equity built up.
Some homeowners also explore pool dealer financing programs, which usually means your builder or dealer conveniently connects you with a financing partner. Be sure to compare dealer options against outside lenders so you understand the rates, terms, fees, and monthly payments clearly.
Is Paying Cash the Best Way to Finance a Pool?
Not every conversation about swimming pool financing options should end with a loan. Paying with cash out of pocket for at least a portion of the price tag can lower interest rates, reduce total project cost, and give you more flexibility later. It also pairs well with a hybrid strategy, such as using savings for the pool shell and financing only the patio or upgrades.
What’s the Best Way to Finance a Pool?
The honest answer is that the best way to finance a pool depends on three things
- Your credit profile
- Your available home equity
- The size of the backyard project you want to build
If a low rate matters most, home equity products usually deserve a close look. If speed and simplicity matter most, pool loans or personal loans may fit better. If you want the lowest total cost, paying cash often wins out. Many homeowners land somewhere in the middle and use a combination.
Compare Pool Financing Options Before You Commit
A smart next step is to run the numbers before you talk yourself into or out of any backyard pool project. Try out the Thursday Pools Financing Calculator to estimate potential daily or weekly payments based on loan amount, interest rate, and term. Then connect with a local independent dealer to talk through your pool vision, your site, and the financing possibilities that fit your budget.
FAQ: Pool Financing Options
What are the most common pool financing options?
The most common pool financing options are pool loans from specialty lenders, home equity loans, HELOCs, cash-out refinancing, personal loans, and paying cash. Many buyers use a combination instead of relying on one source.
What is the best way to finance a swimming pool?
Best for lower rates usually means a home equity loan or HELOC. Best for speed and simplicity often means a pool loan or personal loan. Best for lowest overall cost means paying cash. The right answer depends on your credit score, home equity, and total project budget.
What credit score is needed to finance a pool?
Requirements vary by lender, but higher scores usually unlock better rates and terms. Some lenders may consider borrowers in the mid-600s, while stronger credit generally improves approval odds and pricing.
How much can you finance for a swimming pool?
Loan amounts vary widely by lender and borrower profile. Some specialty lenders advertise loans from $20,000 up to $200,000 or more, while your actual approval depends on credit, income, and overall financial picture. Many fiberglass pool projects fall somewhere within the $50,000 to $120,000 range.
Is it better to finance a pool or pay cash?
Paying cash avoids interest and lowers the total project cost. Financing preserves savings, spreads cost over time, and can make a larger backyard plan possible sooner. Many homeowners choose a mix of cash plus financing.
How long are pool financing terms?
Terms vary by product, but 7- to 20-year repayment windows are common. Longer terms usually have lower monthly payments, while shorter terms reduce total interest paid.
How Much Does an Inground Pool Cost in 2026?
For many homeowners, adding a pool creates a lasting space for connection, recreation, and relaxation. But costs are shifting with the economy, labor market, and materials. Whether you know what type of inground pool you want or are still researching pool types and materials and building a budget, final inground pool costs in 2026 will depend on the size and shape you choose, location and site conditions, the extra add-ons you want, and even what’s happening in the broader economy.
2026 Inground Pool Costs by Pool Type
Homeowners’ final inground pool price tags can vary wildly based on location across the country, pool type, and design decisions. Most 2026 inground pool projects include standard installation services, but do not account for additional premium features, lavish landscaping, or a luxurious outdoor living space around the pool.
Vinyl liner pools feature moderate installation pricing ranging from $35,000 to $80,000. Don’t forget liner replacements every 5 to 15 years, costing between $3,000 and $7,500.
Concrete (gunite) pools are highly customizable, but the most expensive to install and maintain. A 2026 concrete inground pool installation can cost from $50,000 to $120,000 or more, and will need $300 to $1,000 acid wash treatments every 3 to 5 years, as well as $8,000 to $10,000 resurfacing every 10 to 15 years.
Fiberglass pools are our specialty, and Thursday Pools can offer unique insight into 2026 fiberglass pool costs through a recent survey of our independent dealer network.
- Small fiberglass pools (less than 26 feet long or 400 square feet) average approximately $74,000.
- Medium fiberglass pools (between 27 and 34 feet long or 400 to 600 square feet) average around $109,000.
- Large fiberglass pools (35 feet and longer or more than 600 square feet) average near $113,000.
Economic Forces Influencing 2026 Pool Costs
Your location, pool type, and pool size are among the most impactful factors for 2026 inground pool costs, but other macroeconomic currents will also influence prices.
1. Construction Spending and Tariff Pressures
Tariffs on materials like lumber, steel, and aluminum will continue to push up 2026 construction costs. Fiberglass inground pools don’t rely on wood and metal as much as other pool types, but rising costs in areas such as labor, excavation, and concrete work can ripple into all projects and budgets.
2. Tight Construction Labor Market
A 2025 Associated Builders and Contractors model estimates the construction industry needs 439,000 net new workers before the end of the year to meet anticipated demand—and then another 499,000 new workers in 2026. A gap in construction labor supply and demand inflates wages, stretches schedules, and can drive up inground pool installation bids.
3. Inflation and Interest Rate Outlook
The Kiplinger Special Report on business costs for 2026 expects the Federal Reserve to cut interest rates by 2% by the end of the year, with inflation easing toward 3% and economic growth remaining modest. A softer cost of capital could lower financing costs for inground pool builds, while slower inflation may relieve pressure on materials and labor costs. Lower rates typically reduce contractors’ borrowing costs, which can help keep inground pool installation quotes in check.
Variables Shaping Your 2026 Inground Pool Budget
Even with overall estimates for inground pool installations handy, some details can significantly shift your 2026 inground pool investment.
Permits
Local license fees vary wildly and depend on your city, county, or neighborhood’s regulations and approval processes. Your local pool builder should be familiar with the area’s ordinances and municipalities’ inspection requirements. Permits can cost from $100 to $1,000 or more. Ask your pool dealer who is responsible for acquiring the necessary permits, and whether or not they are part of your installation costs.
Excavation
Every inground pool needs a hole in the ground, but soil type, accessibility, and sloping yards can change digging complexities and cost. Excavation for a 2026 inground pool dig averages from $1,000 to $5,000. Softer loam soil with a balance of sand, silt, and clay is easiest to excavate, while challenging conditions, such as rocky soil or uneven terrain, could add costs from a few hundred to several thousand dollars to address. Ask your dealer whether their excavation costs also include hauling away dirt.
Fencing
Safety comes first, and many state or local municipalities have codes requiring 4- or 5-foot barrier fencing surrounding new 2026 inground pool builds. Depending on the quality and aesthetics of the fence’s material, homeowners should budget to spend between $10 and $45 per linear foot. For a typical 200- to 300-foot fence, that’s an average total cost between $2,000 and $13,500.
Electrical Work
Reliable electricity is essential for your inground pool’s pump, filter, lights, and other critical equipment or decorative touches. The average cost to hire an electrician for larger projects like an inground pool installation is between $2,000 and $10,000. Your local pool dealer may offer electrical wiring and installation work as part of their standard installation package—either way, we recommend budgeting for at least $3,000 to $5,000 at minimum in electrical work.
Pool Cover
Temporary inground pool covers cost much less than automatic safety covers, which come at a higher price but also enhance convenience and peace of mind.
- Winter covers can be inconvenient and cumbersome when closing your inground pool for the season, but they are a relatively inexpensive option with an average cost between $75 and $250.
- Manual retractable pool covers install a reel with a mechanical roller to cover and uncover the pool quickly, and have an average cost range of $1,500 to $6,000.
- Automatic pool covers are the most convenient option to open or close your inground pool at the touch of a button. A motor moves the retractable cover along a hidden track system under the pool decking, with installations averaging $8,000 to $20,000.
Pool Heater
Depending on where you live, a pool heater may be an essential inclusion or a luxurious add-on to lengthen your swimming season into cooler evenings and early spring or late fall weather. An electric resistance, natural gas, or propane inground pool heater can cost between $1,200 and $6,000 to install. Solar pool heaters and energy-efficient heat pumps average from $2,000 to $6,500, but feature lower monthly operating costs.
Patio, Decking, and Landscaping
Your inground pool may be the main draw, but the entire outdoor design should reflect your lifestyle and fit your vision. Paving, plantings, hardscape features, and other outdoor living space elements can boost enjoyment—but also your budget. Pool builders often include 3 feet of concrete decking around the pool perimeter, but lavish landscaping, a custom patio, and an outdoor living space with a fire pit or outdoor kitchen are typically additional expenses. Depending on the material—from poured or stamped concrete to brick, pavers, or natural stone—a 20-foot by 20-foot patio can average between $2,000 and $14,000.
FAQs: Saving Money on Your 2026 Inground Pool
Q: How can I keep pool costs manageable without sacrificing quality?
A: Prioritize must-haves first—like pool size, safety features, and basic decking. Extras such as water features or outdoor kitchens can always be added later once the core installation is complete.
Q: Are energy-efficient pool upgrades really worth it?
A: Yes. Variable-speed pumps, LED lighting, and heat pumps may cost more upfront, but they significantly reduce monthly operating expenses and typically pay for themselves over time.
Q: How can I avoid expensive repairs down the road?
A: Plan for maintenance from the start. A good pool cover, routine cleaning, and keeping water chemistry within ranges will protect your pool’s structure and equipment, saving money on repairs.
Planning for Your 2026 Inground Pool and Lifelong Investment
Building an inground pool in 2026 will require careful planning, but it remains one of the most rewarding upgrades you can make to your home. By factoring in size, pool type, site conditions, and the broader economic forces at play, you’ll be better prepared to shape a realistic budget.
To get a clearer picture, use the Thursday Pools Pool Cost Calculator and explore financing options with the Financing Calculator to see how monthly payments may fit your household budget. Then connect with an independent Thursday Pools dealer for tailored guidance. With the right preparation, your 2026 pool project can set the stage for years of enjoyment and value.
Start Making Waves: Fiberglass Pool Financing Advice
Hello, soon-to-be pool owner! If you’re already dreaming of your ideal inground Fiberglass swimming pool and have figured out your budget, the next step is to look into pool financing options to turn those dreams into reality. Navigating pool financing can seem daunting, but with the right information and resources, you can make informed decisions and bring your backyard oasis to life. Let’s plunge into the essentials, starting with a key aspect: the fiberglass pool cost.
Understanding Fiberglass Pool Costs
As of 2024, a turnkey fiberglass installation, including the installed pool, a patio, and a handful of essential accessories, costs between $70,000 and $135,000. Additional costs may arise from landscaping, decking, fencing, and ongoing maintenance. It’s essential to consider these when budgeting for your pool project to avoid unexpected financial strain.
Understanding Pool Loans
Imagine this: You can access pool loans up to $500,000 with annual interest rates ranging from 5.99% to 13%. These personal loans are great because they don’t require home equity or a property appraisal. For a ballpark figure, a $30,000 loan over 20 years usually has monthly repayments of about $225 to $250.
How You Receive the Funds
Once approved, depending on the lender, the loan amount may be directly provided to you in one total payment or it may be provided directly to the builder and dispersed at different stages of the project. Many contractors prefer this direct-to-consumer funding approach, which allows you to directly manage costs for the pool and any additional features like landscaping or accessories.
Interest Rates and Monthly Payments
Loan interest rates are stable, and you can find loans across all 50 states. For a quick reference, monthly payments on a $30,000 loan might be around $225, scaling up to about $360 for a $50,000 loan over 20 years. If you know how much you want to borrow, you can calculate your monthly payments online.
What Qualifies as ‘Good Credit’?
Lenders typically look for a strong credit history, including diverse accounts like credit cards, car loans, and mortgages. They value consistent on-time payments, the ability to save (demonstrated by significant down payments), and a favorable debt-to-income ratio. Stable and sufficient income is crucial to secure loan approval. Generally, a credit score of around 600 is acceptable for getting a loan offer from HFS Financial.
Specialized Companies for Pool Financing
Several finance companies offer loans on inground pools. Please note that Thursday Pools is not affiliated with, nor do we receive any payment from the following companies.
- HFS Financial: Known for offering up to $500,000 in loans specifically for pool projects, HFS Financial provides terms of up to 20 years. Longer terms allow for manageable monthly payments and extensive financing options tailored to the scope of your pool project.
- Lyon Financial: With a long history in the pool loan industry, Lyon Financial offers various loan amounts up to $500,000. They emphasize unsecured loans, which don’t require home equity, making it easier for homeowners to get the financing they need without leveraging their property.
- LightStream: A division of SunTrust Bank (now part of Truist), LightStream offers pool loans with competitive rates and terms. They focus on unsecured loans that can be used for various home improvement projects, including pools. Their streamlined process is convenient for borrowers looking for quick approvals and flexible terms.
- Viking Capital: Viking Capital provides pool financing solutions for pool purchases and related home improvements. They offer loans up to a certain amount, requiring specific credit qualifications. Their expertise in the pool industry ensures that their financing options are well-suited to meet the needs of pool buyers.
- Paramount Capital: Paramount Capital helps customers find financing for new pool construction and remodeling projects. They offer tailored financing solutions to meet the specific requirements of pool installations, ensuring that homeowners can access the funds they need for their projects.
Preparing for Financing
Before applying for financing, it’s essential to get your financial house in order. Here are some steps to take:
- Check Your Credit Score: A higher credit score can qualify you for better interest rates and terms.
- Evaluate Your Budget: Ensure you can comfortably afford the monthly payments without straining your finances.
- Compare Offers: Don’t settle for the first loan offer. Compare multiple lenders’ rates, terms, and fees to find the best deal.
- Get Pre-Approved: Pre-approval can give you a clear idea of how much you can borrow and at what terms, helping you set a realistic budget for your pool.
Overlooked Costs and Considerations
When budgeting for your fiberglass pool, it’s important to consider additional costs beyond the initial installation.
- Maintenance: Regular maintenance is essential to keep your pool in good condition. Whether you do it yourself or hire a pool professional, maintenance costs include cleaning, keeping the water balanced, and opening and closing the pool.
- Insurance: Adding a pool to your property can increase homeowners’ premiums. Check with your insurance provider to understand how your policy might change.
- Utilities: Running a pool pump, heater, and other equipment will increase utility bills. Energy-efficient options can help mitigate these costs.
- Landscaping and Decor: Post-installation landscaping, furniture, and decor can enhance the look of your pool area, but it will also add to the overall cost.
Contact an Independent Thursday Pools Dealer to Get Started!
Navigating pool financing requires careful planning and consideration of various factors, from understanding the fiberglass pool cost to exploring financing options and preparing for overlooked expenses. Doing your homework and making informed decisions can turn your dream of owning a fiberglass pool into a reality without causing financial strain. Are you ready to make a splash now? Contact an independent dealer to schedule a design consultation or get an estimate.
Is a New Fiberglass Pool a Good Investment?
Adding a swimming pool to your outdoor space transforms what time at home means. For some, it means staycationing at will. For others, it means getting social, staying
healthy, or having more memories with the family. Regardless of why you want an inground pool, it’s natural to ask, “Is a new fiberglass pool a good investment?” Many factors make a fiberglass pool a good investment. Some will be universal to pools in general (like inground pool cost), some personal to you (like shape and size), and others specific to fiberglass versus other types of pools.
A FEW THINGS YOU MAY NOT KNOW ABOUT FIBERGLASS POOLS
Here are a few quick facts about fiberglass pools that are helpful as you make your assessment of value:
Fiberglass pools are quick to install. Fiberglass pools typically take just a few weeks to install. The shell is pre-built in a controlled factory environment and arrives ready to put in at your site.
Fiberglass pools are aesthetically pleasing. They look good! The gelcoat finish of a quality-made and maintained fiberglass pool retains its beautiful appearance long after installation.
Fiberglass pools are not slippery. The shiny gelcoat finish appearance may lead you to think fiberglass pools are slippery. However, the smooth, durable fiberglass surface is non-skid and non-snag for stepping, walking, or sitting on the surface.
Fiberglass pools are durable. Fiberglass pools can last decades with minimal maintenance and no need for resurfacing, acid-washing, or relining.
Fiberglass pools are feature-rich. Today’s fiberglass pools have the most in-demand built-in features, like tanning ledges, wide-entry steps, wrap-around bench seating, and swim-outs.
Fiberglass pools require the lowest maintenance. Fiberglass pools are easier and less expensive to maintain because they are durable and resistant to algae and mineral deposits.
COMPARING THE INVESTMENT IN FIBERGLASS VERSUS GUNITE OR VINYL
Let’s dig a little deeper into those fiberglass pool pros and how they compare with gunite and vinyl-lined pools:
Installation. A vinyl pool can cost a little less than fiberglass upfront but often takes longer to install because pool builders create them onsite. And a gunite pool will cost more than fiberglass or vinyl and can take three to six months to install.
Aesthetics. Your neighbor will not mistake a ten-year-old vinyl pool for new. You’ll probably need to get a new liner after only five to seven years. A gunite pool can look good for years, but maintaining a like-new appearance requires acid washing and a significant investment in regular maintenance.
Feel. Gunite feels and looks solid. Its porous surface may also have a more rough feel on feet and paws alike versus other pool types. . Vinyl generally feels soft and comfortable, but wrinkles and seams can cause tripping. Both vinyl-liner and gunite pools can be slippery due to algae buildup.
Features. Installing a vinyl-lined pool with complex features, like wrap-around benches, isn’t impossible, but it adds to both the cost and number of seams (which can harbor algae). You can build a gunite pool with any features you want, but they will be custom, more expensive, and may make cleaning the porous surface more difficult.
Durability and Maintenance. Vinyl can more easily tear from the scratch of a dog’s nail, and, as mentioned before, you’ll likely need to replace the liner after five to seven years. Gunite’s surface is porous and typically needs to be resurfaced after ten to twelve years on average. In addition, gunite requires more regular maintenance, scrubbing, and chemicals than fiberglass pools.
TIPS TO ENSURE YOUR FIBERGLASS POOL IS A GOOD INVESTMENT
Don’t try to DIY. When you learn that fiberglass pool shells are durable and arrive at your site already constructed, it’s tempting to think you could save money by doing it yourself. We don’t advise that approach, especially if you’re thinking long-term about your investment. Warranties are invalid if a qualified dealer or installer doesn’t install the pool. And the technique, know-how, and tools an installer brings to the table are invaluable.
Installers need access. Fiberglass swimming pools are unique in that they arrive as constructed shells, as big as 41′ x 16′. If your backyard site is challenging to access, consult with a dealer. There may be an additional effort and investment required to get your pool into the desired location in some situations.
Marketability. The National Association of Realtors estimated a fiberglass pool could add more than 5% to the resale value of your home. However, according to HomeLight’s Top Agent Insights Survey for Spring 2021, with the current demand for pools skyrocketing, homes with pools are garnering 69 percent more than those without pools. The exact return on investment will vary. However, in a competitive market, the presence of a beautiful, relatively easy-to-maintain fiberglass pool could be a differentiator that gives your home a selling advantage.
Value comes with use. It’s not easy to calculate the return on investment of a fiberglass pool in the same way you might a mutual fund. And you probably won’t purchase a fiberglass pool to stage your home the way you might add a new coat of paint or carefully place a new sofa in the living room. We derive much of the value from our pool through its use.
Investment in yourself. Imagine how you will use a fiberglass pool and how that investment will add value to your life. A fiberglass pool is an investment in:
- Your social life
- Childhood enjoyment and family life
- Your health and well-being
- Aesthetics and pleasure
- Connection to nature and each other
As you can see, whether a new fiberglass pool is a good investment or not is somewhat of a personal choice. Before you make your final decision, we urge you to talk with a dealer and discuss your unique situation.
