If you're thinking of placing an inbuilt swimming pool in your yard, one of the very first questions you'll have to ask yourself is whether you want yours to be made of fiberglass, concrete, or vinyl. These materials cover nearly all swimming pools currently constructed, and each one comes with its own list of benefits and drawbacks. However, fiberglass is becoming more and more popular, and it will often prove the best pick. Here are just a few reasons why.

Minimal Maintenance

Swimming pools are supposed to be for relaxing in the sun and playing around with the family, not cleaning and maintaining. Fiberglass pools enjoy an enticing advantage due to their non-porous nature. Unlike concrete, which is porous, fiberglass prevents algae from embedding itself. This means that you need to clean the pool far less frequently. So, there will be more time enjoying the pool and less time maintaining it, but you'll also cut down on the need for expensive cleaning chemicals.

Quick Installation

A concrete pool will take a long time to install. Aside from mapping and digging out the area for your pool, workers will have to construct a steel frame on which to pour the concrete, lay the concrete down, and then wait some weeks for the concrete to properly set. In contrast, a fiberglass pool is incredibly easy to install. The pool is shaped in advance to fit the intended area, then shipping straight to your home to be laid down.

Strength and Durability

Vinyl is also quick to install, but it sacrifices a large measure of strength and durability because the liner can easily be punctured. Fiberglass pools are far more resilient to damage. That makes them pet-friendly – you won't have to worry about your dog's paws scraping the side – and also largely immune to damage from tree branches and patio furniture. Fiberglass will also cope with differing climates well thanks to its flexibility, while a concrete pool is prone to developing cracks.

Saltwater Compatibility

Many owners now prefer to use salt chlorinators to keep their pools clean; they require little effort and produce high-quality water. Unfortunately, salt builds up quickly on the surface of a concrete swimming pool, as well as around the metal components generally used in vinyl liner pools. Fiberglass wins out once again; it creates no adverse reaction with salt.

Combining durability and convenience, fiberglass is often the best choice for your pool. Of course, your individual needs may vary, so make sure you discuss everything with a professional swimming pool builder before going ahead.