With so many materials, shapes, and designs of pools, it’s hard to figure out which type of swimming pool is best for your property. 

You have to consider how many people will regularly use the pool, what your budget is, and many other factors. And since a pool is a significant investment, you don’t want to make the wrong choice. 

The good news is that you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll outline the primary criteria for choosing a pool and which pools can meet those for you. 

How Big Is Your Budget?

The basic question to consider for any pool project starts with a budget. 

For in-ground pools, you’re looking at an average of around $50,000 for a full installation. However, that can vary substantially based on the swimming pool type you choose. 

Concrete, fiberglass, and vinyl-lined pools are the three basic types of pools. Each has its pros and cons, and you’ll learn where each sits for every one of the criteria we describe. You can learn more about these three types of pools in our blog post about pool types.

In terms of pricing, the most affordable option out of the gates is a vinyl pool liner. However, it’s also the least resilient. Prone to punctures and other damage, you may find yourself replacing a vinyl liner far sooner than (say) a fiberglass shell. 

Fiberglass is a mid-range option, falling somewhere between concrete and vinyl. They’re very durable and easy to maintain, but they only come in pre-made shapes. 

Lastly, concrete is the most expensive but also the one that offers the greatest customization. You’ll have free reign to design it however you choose to fit your property.

How Will You Use the Pool?

Another factor is how the pool is going to be used

If you need a pool to entertain a small circle of friends or for family use, you probably don’t need to spend too much. A rectangle pool that’s not too deep will suit you just fine. Fiberglass is also an excellent choice because it requires the least maintenance. 

However, if you’re a competitive swimmer, you might want some more room to train. Building a lap pool is an excellent option. Inground lap pools are a great way to exercise and can also be used as a standard pool for entertainment. You’ll probably need to opt for concrete since there might not be vinyl liners or fiberglass shells in the size you want for a lap pool. 

If you want a pool primarily for exercise, but you don’t have the space to accommodate a lap pool, don’t despair. Endless pools are a superb solution for you. They provide a smooth swimming experience for as long as you want in a much smaller area.

Empty nesters and small families that don’t need too much size or depth will find excellent options in all three types of in-ground pools. Vinyl pools are a great choice if you don’t want to wait too long to get it installed.

How Will You Use the Pool

What Size Is Your Property?

If you’re confined to a small backyard, more compact swimming pools can work just as well. Something in the 14×25-foot range is large enough to be versatile and won’t take up too big of a footprint in your yard. You’ll find excellent options in fiberglass and vinyl for smaller pools. 

If you have a modest-to-large property, you won’t be restricted to any type of pool, so you’ll need to figure out what kind of design you want. Modern fiberglass pools come in a huge variety of shapes.

If space is no object, the sky’s the limit. You’ll probably want a concrete pool so you can incorporate architectural and design elements as you please. 

How Often Will You Use It?

A crucial aspect to consider is how much use the pool will realistically see. If you use a pool every day, it will need much more maintenance than one used a few times a month. 

While it’s always nice to get a pool that requires minimal maintenance, frequently used pools are going to need it anyway. If your pool is used a lot and by many people, you should probably stay away from vinyl as it stands a greater chance of sustaining damage. 

If you want to use it infrequently, fiberglass is probably your best option. It’s a low-maintenance option that won’t require much money or attention.

The Right Pool Is Out There

As you can see, there are many things to consider when trying to choose the right pool for your property. 

However, don’t let a small space or a limited budget deter you. There are options for just about every type of pool owner. 

Would you like to know more? Contact us at Florida Pool and Patio for more information about the right pool for your property and to receive an estimate.