When it comes to choosing the type of swimming pool to install on your property it can be overwhelming for there are so many different types of pools on the market nowadays. So, what type of pool will suit your needs, your property, and your lifestyle? Let us discuss two of the most popular types of swimming pools, Fiberglass and Concrete.

Cost Comparison

When it comes to cost, the initial cost of a fiberglass pool compared to a concrete pool is similar. However, you will have to wait a lot longer for your concrete pool to be installed than a fiberglass pool. If you choose a concrete pool you will have a lot more design options than a fiberglass pool. You can really have any shapes, size, and any extra features you desire in a concrete pool. This is where the cost of your concrete pool can significantly increase when compared to a fiberglass pool. Fiberglass pools are more limited, for you generally choose from a range of shell shapes, sizes and designs available.

Installation Time

Fiberglass pools take a lot less time to install when compared to concrete pools. Fiberglass pool shells are chosen from a selected range offered by the manufacturer. The shell is then produced in factory and delivered to your property ready to be installed. The excavation is then carried out to fit your chosen shape into the ground. A concrete pool is more complex for the pouring and setting of concrete is much greater in terms of installation time. So overall, a concrete pool installation is much more time consuming and more complicated.

Maintenance Comparison

Overall a fiberglass pool requires less maintenance costs compared to a concrete pool. A concrete pool will need to be resurfaced every 10-15 years which can be awfully expensive. Because it has a porous surface, concrete pools may allow more algae growth which will require more chemicals to control. A fiberglass pool has a smooth surface which limits the growth of algae.

However, a fiberglass pool can end up costing a lot more over time more if it needs to be pulled out because it is unsalvable. Sometimes fiberglass pools just cannot be fixed like a concrete pool can be resurfaced and brought back to life. Concrete is a durable material, built to last!

Long Term Benefits

A fiberglass pool has a much smoother surface, whereas a concrete pool can be rougher and cause scrapes and cuts if not surfaced properly. However, a fiberglass pool can bulge or crack if not installed correctly. Also, the water in a fiberglass pool heats up quicker and retains heat for longer than does a concrete pool. Both types of swimming pools will increase the value of your property and add an abundance of aesthetic appeal. You will also find yourself and your family spending much more time outdoors enjoying your new lifestyle!

It really is a personal choice, when it comes to choosing between a concrete or a fiberglass swimming pool. Contact the team at Nolascapes on 504-250-3910 today and we will discuss the pros and cons of Fiberglass and Concrete pools with you!

Cost Comparison

Chlorine pools have been around for over 50 years, while salt water pools have been around for about 30 plus years. Here are some points to consider when it comes to costs of both types of swimming pools:

• Salt water pools are more expensive upfront because you need to purchase a chlorinator system. The salt water chlorinator is used as the pools sanitizing system. It works as salt water passes through it, it separates salt and water into hydrogen and hypochlorous acid. Instead of chlorine it is this acid that sanitizes the pool.
• Chlorine pool are very traditional, and they are affordable to install. Which is why they are so common. Your initial investment is much less than with a salt water pool, which can be enticing to some people.
• Salt water is much more corrosive. So, it is a good idea to be buy special lighting, heaters, fixtures, liners, pool decking etc, that is salt friendly so that you won’t be renovating your pool often.

Which is Healthier?

When it comes to which is the healthier pool, here are a few points you may not have thought of:

• Salt water is not as harsh on the skin, eyes and hair as chlorine can be.
• It is a myth that salt water pools contain no chlorine at all because they run using a chlorinator which means that it will produce just enough chlorine to keep the water sanitized.
• A salt water pool does require less chemicals than a chlorine pool so it is generally healthier.

Maintenance Comparison

Having a swimming pool is all about the enjoyment it will bring to family and friends.
It changes the way you use your outdoor living space. However, one thing that is of consideration is the amount of maintenance and time it takes to care for a swimming pool.
Here are some points on both chlorine and salt water pool maintenance:

• Salt water pools require less maintenance.
• Salt water pools are considered to be safer to maintain because of the fact that you wont need to handle any chlorine.
• Salt water cause a much higher pH level which is important for clarity of the water.
• Overall a salt water system is more complex and will generally always require the attention of an experienced pool contractor no matter how small a problem may be.
• Chlorine kills bacteria like algae very well and disinfects your swimming pool.
• Chlorine pools are easy to maintain for all they require is chlorine on a regular basis. But you do have to ensure you maintain chlorine levels well to ensure a sanitized and safe pool to be swimming in.

Long Term Benefits

There are long term benefits to each type of pool and it really depends on what you are wanting from your pool. Salt water pools are a bigger cost upfront but they can be easier to maintain than a chlorine pool, for they don’t need as many chemicals or need to be checked as often as chlorine pools do. Salt water is much softer on our human bodies, but it can corrode features around your pool much faster than chlorine.

If you are having difficulty deciding between a chlorine and a salt water swimming pool, simply talk to one of our friendly team members at Nolascapes today on 504-250-3910, and we will discuss with you the pros and cons and help you decide which is best for your needs and your lifestyle!