Which Pool is Right for You: Comparing Fiberglass, Vinyl, and Gunite Pools

girl standing in pool

There are three different materials to choose from when buying and installing an inground pool – vinyl, fiberglass, and gunite. Each material provides a distinct pool owner’s experience, from aesthetic and design to lifetime cost and maintenance requirements. Choosing the right kind of pool depends entirely on what your vision and expectations are.

At Blue Haven Pools and Spas our highest concern is creating custom pools that meet the needs and budgets of our customers.  We achieve this by using the finest pool construction materials, including gunite, custom tile, and natural stone. To help you weigh the pros and cons of the three main types of pools, we’ve created the flow chart below. This will walk you through the difference in cost, maintenance, design, and installation, to make sure the pool you choose is perfect for you. 

Which Pool is Right For You - Flow Chart

Vinyl Pools

Pros

  • Low initial cost
  • Somewhat customizable

Cons

  • Don’t hold up well, liner needs to be replaced
  • High lifetime cost – lasts between 5 and 10 years
  • Easily tear
  • Low resale value, not as aesthetically pleasing
  • Can’t use salt water

Fiberglass Pools

Pros

  • Low maintenance
  • Mid-range cost up front
  • 3-6 week installation process

Cons

  • Limited designs
  • Limited to 16’ wide

Gunite Pools

Pros

  • Fully customizable (shape, size, material)
  • Durable, high-quality materials

Cons

  • High upfront cost
  • Requires regular maintenance to prevent algae build-up
  • 3-6 month construction timeline

Choosing the right pool for you can be overwhelming. To learn more about our inground pool design and installation, give us a call or stop by our office at Blue Haven Tulsa today