Gunite Pools vs. Fiberglass Pools: Which Is Better for My Northern Virginia Home?
The choice between Gunite Pools and Fiberglass Pools is the first to be made among all the decisions that come with adding a pool. Because these two pool materials are so dissimilar, they each have advantages and disadvantages.
The material used to build your pool is an important decision, and you want to invest your money wisely.
You might be concerned that you will make the wrong decision and be disappointed. That’s why you’re doing some preliminary research to ensure that your pool is a wonderful addition to your backyard rather than a constant source of concern.
By taking the time to learn about the two types of poo materials and which one is best for you, you’re making a wise decision.
Pool Construction Process
Exploring the differences in how these two types of pools are built is a good place to start your understanding of Gunite vs. Fiberglass Pools. This will help you understand what makes them so dissimilar.
Pool builders in Northern Virginia will begin by digging a hole and installing plumbing before constructing a Gunite pool. Gunite Pools are constructed with a rebar framework grid (steel reinforcing rods) and then sprayed with the Gunite mixture (a mixture of cement and sand). The Gunite will be smoothed out and allowed to dry completely before applying a smooth finish to the rough surface.
Whereas Gunite pools are built on-site, fiberglass pools are built in a factory or warehouse. The Fiberglass Pool is shaped in a mold during the process. It will then be delivered to your home on a truck and installed in the previously excavated hole.
Gunite Pools
Its Pros in Construction.
- Custom Design – Your imagination limits the design possibilities because it is built on-site. That means you can be as creative as you want with the shape and any features you want to include, such as built-in rock formations or waterfalls. You are also not restricted in terms of finish colors. A Gunite Pool is the way to go if you want something out of the ordinary or extremely customized.
- There are no size restrictions – You’re not limited by size. With Gunite Pools, you can have a large pool that is extra-long or even extra-deep. The size of the truck does not constrain you.
- Durability – Gunite Pools are known for their strength so that the steel framework will keep its shape.
Its Cons in Construction.
- Longer perceived construction time – Building a gunite pool takes longer than building a fiberglass pool because it’s a more customized job with more complexities.
- Differences in the surface – Many people believe that a gunite pool’s surface is rough, but this depends on the finish you select. A smoother finish will not be rough.
Fiberglass Pools
Its Pros in Construction
- Reduced perceived build time – A Fiberglass pool can sometimes be up and running faster than a Gunite Pool. Still, FiberglassFiberglass can also have a lead time. When you use FiberglassFiberglass, you have to wait for it to be built in a warehouse rather than watching it be built in your backyard.
- Surface Differences – The surface of a Fiberglass Pool is smoother, though some may find it too “slippery.” This could be a matter of personal taste.
Its Cons in Construction
- Customization is unavailable – Fiberglass pool shells are manufactured in a factory and then shipped to your home. This means that your customization options are limited. You might have a pool mold that looks exactly like every other pool on the street. This may suffice if you only want a small kidney bean-shaped pool and don’t care about extra features. However, the majority of homeowners prefer something unique to their backyard.
- Size and shape restrictions – Because the pool is delivered to your home, its shape and size are limited. It must be small enough to fit on a truck. You will not be able to have a pool that is particularly long or deep.
- Possibility of difficulty – Fiberglass pools are more prone to problems if they are not properly manufactured or installed. If FiberglassFiberglass is not properly manufactured, it can develop bubbles. Furthermore, a Fiberglass Pool can settle to one end if not properly installed.
The Cost of Each Pool
Of course, you’ll also want to compare the prices of these two types of pools. The cost will be nearly the same when comparing a Gunite Pool to a fiberglass pool of the same size.
However, because most people choose a Gunite Pool to create something much more custom and typically much larger, Gunite Pools have a reputation for being more expensive.
If you choose Gunite Pools, you are unlikely to have a small kidney bean-shaped pool installed. You’re probably looking for a unique shape or design and features like sun shelves, boulder waterfalls, and possibly even a spa.
You’re probably going to go with a larger pool. All of this will increase the cost, but it will also increase the value.
Pool Reviews Comparison
Pool owner reviews are another factor to consider. There is a wealth of information available online that you can research and read. You’ll probably conclude that a lot of the reviews are subjective.
For example, one review we found stated that the homeowner enjoyed their Gunite Pools because it was not as slippery as the fiberglass pools he had previously used.
However, you can find reviews from fiberglass pool owners who claim that their pool is superior due to the rougher nature of the Gunite surface.
This is the same feature, but from two completely different perspectives because it is a matter of opinion and preference.
Keep your personal preferences in mind as you read through reviews. There will always be pool owners on both ends of the spectrum, but remember to keep your wants and needs in mind when making your decision.
Pool Companies in Northern Virginia
In terms of finished products, both Gunite Pools and Fiberglass pools can be a nice addition to your property if properly installed. This is a critical fact that depends on working with a pool company with the necessary experience, skill, and expertise to complete the job correctly.
A pool is a significant investment, and mistakes could result in even greater losses.
PoolForce creates truly custom backyards by designing and installing Gunite Pools. We have, however, worked with homeowners who already have a fiberglass pool installed. We’ve completed the remaining work in their space.
Pool companies frequently install the pool and then move on to the next job. They sometimes even leave shambles behind. This is frequent since they are pool design experts but not landscape design experts.
We’ve worked with clients who want to complete the rest of their outdoor space with features such as a beautiful patio and pool landscaping. We believe in creating an entire space because the pool alone isn’t very enjoyable.
Conclusion
Now you can make an informed decision after learning more about each pool type’s benefits and drawbacks.
If you choose to work with PoolForce, we can handle your backyard pool project from beginning to end, starting with a blank slate and transforming it into a complete outdoor living space that exceeds your wildest expectations.
When the project is completed, you should be able to enjoy your space to the fullest rather than feeling like something is missing or that you made a mistake somewhere along the way. You are investing in long-term happiness by making wise decisions along the way.
Which is your favorite pool? Tell us in the comment section.
We eagerly await your response.
Check out our other blogs as well; we have a lot to offer in pool knowledge.
The choice between Gunite Pools and Fiberglass Pools is the first to be made among all the decisions that come with adding a pool. Because these two pool materials are so dissimilar, they each have advantages and disadvantages.
The material used to build your pool is an important decision, and you want to invest your money wisely.
You might be concerned that you will make the wrong decision and be disappointed. That’s why you’re doing some preliminary research to ensure that your pool is a wonderful addition to your backyard rather than a constant source of concern.
By taking the time to learn about the two types of poo materials and which one is best for you, you’re making a wise decision.
Pool Construction Process
Exploring the differences in how these two types of pools are built is a good place to start your understanding of Gunite vs. Fiberglass Pools. This will help you understand what makes them so dissimilar.
Pool builders in Northern Virginia will begin by digging a hole and installing plumbing before constructing a Gunite pool. Gunite Pools are constructed with a rebar framework grid (steel reinforcing rods) and then sprayed with the Gunite mixture (a mixture of cement and sand). The Gunite will be smoothed out and allowed to dry completely before applying a smooth finish to the rough surface.
Whereas Gunite pools are built on-site, fiberglass pools are built in a factory or warehouse. The Fiberglass Pool is shaped in a mold during the process. It will then be delivered to your home on a truck and installed in the previously excavated hole.
Gunite Pools
Its Pros in Construction.
- Custom Design – Your imagination limits the design possibilities because it is built on-site. That means you can be as creative as you want with the shape and any features you want to include, such as built-in rock formations or waterfalls. You are also not restricted in terms of finish colors. A Gunite Pool is the way to go if you want something out of the ordinary or extremely customized.
- There are no size restrictions – You’re not limited by size. With Gunite Pools, you can have a large pool that is extra-long or even extra-deep. The size of the truck does not constrain you.
- Durability – Gunite Pools are known for their strength so that the steel framework will keep its shape.
Its Cons in Construction.
- Longer perceived construction time – Building a gunite pool takes longer than building a fiberglass pool because it’s a more customized job with more complexities.
- Differences in the surface – Many people believe that a gunite pool’s surface is rough, but this depends on the finish you select. A smoother finish will not be rough.
Fiberglass Pools
Its Pros in Construction
- Reduced perceived build time – A Fiberglass pool can sometimes be up and running faster than a Gunite Pool. Still, FiberglassFiberglass can also have a lead time. When you use FiberglassFiberglass, you have to wait for it to be built in a warehouse rather than watching it be built in your backyard.
- Surface Differences – The surface of a Fiberglass Pool is smoother, though some may find it too “slippery.” This could be a matter of personal taste.
Its Cons in Construction
- Customization is unavailable – Fiberglass pool shells are manufactured in a factory and then shipped to your home. This means that your customization options are limited. You might have a pool mold that looks exactly like every other pool on the street. This may suffice if you only want a small kidney bean-shaped pool and don’t care about extra features. However, the majority of homeowners prefer something unique to their backyard.
- Size and shape restrictions – Because the pool is delivered to your home, its shape and size are limited. It must be small enough to fit on a truck. You will not be able to have a pool that is particularly long or deep.
- Possibility of difficulty – Fiberglass pools are more prone to problems if they are not properly manufactured or installed. If FiberglassFiberglass is not properly manufactured, it can develop bubbles. Furthermore, a Fiberglass Pool can settle to one end if not properly installed.
The Cost of Each Pool
Of course, you’ll also want to compare the prices of these two types of pools. The cost will be nearly the same when comparing a Gunite Pool to a fiberglass pool of the same size.
However, because most people choose a Gunite Pool to create something much more custom and typically much larger, Gunite Pools have a reputation for being more expensive.
If you choose Gunite Pools, you are unlikely to have a small kidney bean-shaped pool installed. You’re probably looking for a unique shape or design and features like sun shelves, boulder waterfalls, and possibly even a spa.
You’re probably going to go with a larger pool. All of this will increase the cost, but it will also increase the value.
Pool Reviews Comparison
Pool owner reviews are another factor to consider. There is a wealth of information available online that you can research and read. You’ll probably conclude that a lot of the reviews are subjective.
For example, one review we found stated that the homeowner enjoyed their Gunite Pools because it was not as slippery as the fiberglass pools he had previously used.
However, you can find reviews from fiberglass pool owners who claim that their pool is superior due to the rougher nature of the Gunite surface.
This is the same feature, but from two completely different perspectives because it is a matter of opinion and preference.
Keep your personal preferences in mind as you read through reviews. There will always be pool owners on both ends of the spectrum, but remember to keep your wants and needs in mind when making your decision.
Pool Companies in Northern Virginia
In terms of finished products, both Gunite Pools and Fiberglass pools can be a nice addition to your property if properly installed. This is a critical fact that depends on working with a pool company with the necessary experience, skill, and expertise to complete the job correctly.
A pool is a significant investment, and mistakes could result in even greater losses.
PoolForce creates truly custom backyards by designing and installing Gunite Pools. We have, however, worked with homeowners who already have a fiberglass pool installed. We’ve completed the remaining work in their space.
Pool companies frequently install the pool and then move on to the next job. They sometimes even leave shambles behind. This is frequent since they are pool design experts but not landscape design experts.
We’ve worked with clients who want to complete the rest of their outdoor space with features such as a beautiful patio and pool landscaping. We believe in creating an entire space because the pool alone isn’t very enjoyable.
Conclusion
Now you can make an informed decision after learning more about each pool type’s benefits and drawbacks.
If you choose to work with PoolForce, we can handle your backyard pool project from beginning to end, starting with a blank slate and transforming it into a complete outdoor living space that exceeds your wildest expectations.
When the project is completed, you should be able to enjoy your space to the fullest rather than feeling like something is missing or that you made a mistake somewhere along the way. You are investing in long-term happiness by making wise decisions along the way.
Which is your favorite pool? Tell us in the comment section.
We eagerly await your response.
Check out our other blogs as well; we have a lot to offer in pool knowledge.