What Are the Different Types of In-Ground Pools?

Fibreglass Pools

Storytime: From Zero to Hero 

Fibreglass pools first made a splash in the 1950s as the “new kid on the block” in the pool industry. Lightweight, easy to install, and durable, they quickly caught the attention of homeowners looking for a less complicated option compared to traditional concrete pools. But, like anything new, early fibreglass models had a few bumps along the way. One major hiccup? Osmosis—where water would seep into the shell and cause pesky blisters. Yikes!

But, just like your favourite underdog story, fibreglass pools didn’t let a few setbacks hold them back. By the 1980s and 1990s, new manufacturing techniques (think multi-layered composites and improved gel coat finishes) solved these issues and made fibreglass pools tougher and more resistant to environmental wear. Suddenly, they went from being the “quick fix” to a top choice for those who wanted a long-lasting, hassle-free pool.

Fast forward to today, and fibreglass pools have shaken off that old reputation for good. Now recognised as a low-maintenance, durable option, fibreglass pools have become the go-to for homeowners who want a pool that’s built to last without all the extra installation effort and ongoing maintenance costs.

How Are Fibreglass Pools Constructed?

Fibreglass pools are built using a carefully controlled pre-fabrication process, which ensures consistency and high quality. It all starts in the factory, where a mould in the desired shape of the pool is created. Then, multiple layers of resin and fibreglass are applied, one after the other, to build up a strong yet lightweight shell. To top it off, a smooth, non-porous gel coat layer is added, giving the pool its signature glossy finish and making it resistant to chemicals, UV and easy to clean.

The shell is made up of several key layers:

1. Gel Coat: This is the top layer that gives the pool its smooth finish and protects it from UV rays and harsh chemicals.
   
   
2. Fibreglass Layer: Several layers of fibreglass and impermeable resin stop osmosis and add strength and flexibility, allowing the pool to be installed in all soil types without cracking.
   
   
3. Strengthening Ribs: Quality manufacturers fibreglass over pool wall ribs, which simplifies installation and adds extra structural support.

Once the shell is complete, it’s delivered to your backyard as a single piece—like a massive jigsaw puzzle with just one big, beautiful piece! With the site prepped and the shell lowered into place and backfilled (putting earth around the shell) plumbing connections are hooked up, and after a few final adjustments, you’re ready to let the fun times begin.

This pre-fabrication approach not only speeds up installation but also ensures that every pool is built to a high standard, thanks to the controlled environment of the factory. 

Pros & Cons Of Fibreglass Pools

Pros

Quick Installation
One of the biggest perks of fibreglass pools is how quickly they can be installed. Since the shell is pre-made, the whole process—once the site is prepped—can often be wrapped up in just a week. That’s a major win compared to concrete pools, which can take months to complete.

Low Maintenance
The smooth, non-porous gelcoat surface naturally resists algae growth, so don’t have to worry about preventing black spot algae (common in concrete pools) or dumping buckets of chemicals into the water. Less scrubbing and more swimming—who wouldn’t want that?

Excellent Heat Retention
The material’s natural insulating properties mean the water stays warmer for longer, so you’ll spend less time (and money) running your pool heater.

Lifetime Structural Warranty
In Australia, if a fibreglass pool shell has a 25-year structural warranty, it qualifies as a lifetime warranty—giving you peace of mind that your pool is built to last.

Cons (Potentially):

Pre-moulded Shapes
As fibreglass pools are made on a mould, the length, width and depth for each model can’t be customised. If you find your ideal design however would prefer to have the bench seat on the opposite side of the pool, the manufacturer won’t be able to make this change for you. 

Delivered in One Piece
Fibreglass pools arrive in your backyard fully formed, which means no complicated on-site construction (or unexpected delays!). As the shells are lightweight, they can be easily lifted into place by a crane. If you have a two-level house, powerlines out the front and tall trees in between, the crane cost can jump from the usual $400 to $1,200 up to $5,000+.

See more Fibreglass Pool Installation Tips here

Technological Advances in Fibreglass Pool Design

Fibreglass pools have come a long way from their early days! Thanks to modern technology, today’s fibreglass pools offer far more than the standard shapes and sizes. Advanced multi-layered composite structures and improved gel coat finishes have made these pools stronger, more resilient, and more stunning than ever. This means you’re not just getting a pool that’s easy to maintain—you’re getting one that’s built to last.

What about design? Gone are the days of “cookie-cutter” pools. Today’s fibreglass options come packed with built-in features like steps, benches, spa jets and beach entry ledges, all seamlessly integrated into the mould. You can enjoy a sleek modern look with built-in seating, or a family-friendly design that maximises swim space and comfort. Pair that with clever landscaping, and you can achieve a customised look without the need for a fully bespoke (and more expensive) concrete build.

And the benefits don’t stop there! Structural advancements mean fibreglass pools are better equipped to handle ground movement, ensuring fewer cracks and issues down the road. So, if you’re looking for a pool that blends cutting-edge technology with timeless style, fibreglass has stepped up its game in a big way.

Ideal Homeowners for Fibreglass Pools

Fibreglass pools are perfect for homeowners looking for a fuss-free, low-maintenance option that’s built to last. If you want something quick to install, easy to clean, and durable enough to handle whatever your family throws at it, a fibreglass pool ticks all the boxes. Plus, with so many shapes and sizes to choose from, you can create a look that’s uniquely yours—even without full customisation. It’s a smart, long-term investment for anyone who wants a stunning pool without all the work.

If you’re after the kind of pool that stays gorgeous with minimal effort, fibreglass is your best bet. It’s strong, stylish, and lets you spend more time swimming and less time stressing.

Vinyl Liner Pools

Storytime: Vinyl’s Big Break

Vinyl liner pools splashed onto the scene in the 1960s, making backyard pools more accessible for the everyday Aussie family. Before then, owning a pool was pretty much a luxury—mainly because concrete pools were the only option, and they didn’t come cheap! But vinyl liner pools changed the game, giving families a wallet-friendly alternative and triggering a backyard pool boom.

By the 70s and 80s, vinyl liner pools remained popular for their quick installation and flexible design options. The ongoing need to patch tears and holes in the liner and the cost of replacing the liner completely every 5 to 7 years tainted vinyl’s reputation. As technology has evolved, quality manufacturers now offer a 10-year warranty on the liner which is a big step forward. The warranty doesn’t include patching tears, cuts and holes though. Today, vinyl liners remain a good pick for homeowners focused on keeping upfront costs low and are happy to part with thousands of dollars to replace the liner down the track.

Materials And Construction Of Vinyl Liner Pools

Walls
Vinyl liner pools are built using either steel or polymer frames. Steel is strong, but if kryptonite is Superman’s weakness then steel’s kryptonite is rust! A small leak and rust will weaken the pool frame, especially in saltwater pools. Having to replace the entire pool frame is not uncommon.  That’s why polymer panels are often the smarter choice—they are rust-resistant however be prepared to pay more upfront for polymer compared to steel.

Liners
The real hero here is the vinyl liner, made from durable PVC. It’s the layer that gives the pool its colour, style, and waterproof barrier. But keep in mind, vinyl liners are a bit like wrapping a present with tissue paper—it looks nice, but you’ve got to be gentle. Rough play, sharp objects, jewellery and pets can easily damage the liner, meaning repairs (and replacements) could be in your future.

Pros & Cons Of Vinyl Liner Pools

Pros

Affordable Upfront Costs
Vinyl liner pools are one of the most budget-friendly options when it comes to pools. If you’re looking for a pool that initially won’t send your bank balance plummeting, vinyl liners are a great choice. The initial construction costs are generally lower than both concrete and fibreglass pools, making them accessible to a wide range of homeowners.

Customisable Sizes and Shapes
Vinyl liner pools can be customised into any shape and depth you like which offers a lot of design flexibility compared to fibreglass pools. 

Easy to Install
The construction process for vinyl liner pools is relatively fast and straightforward. The frame is set up on-site, and the liner is fitted. That means you’ll be ready for a swim faster than with a concrete pool.

Cons

Liners Need Periodic Replacement
The downside is the liner will need to be replaced every 5-10 years, depending on how well it’s maintained and how often the pool is used. This is an additional long-term cost you’ll need to budget for as replacing the liner is not a cheap exercise.

Susceptible to Tears and Punctures
Vinyl liners are more delicate compared to other pool materials. They can tear or puncture easily, especially if sharp objects or rough play are involved. While repairs can be made, the real cost is if the leak goes unnoticed and rust sets in on the steel framed walls.

Higher Maintenance Requirements
Compared to fibreglass and even concrete pools, vinyl liner pools require a bit more TLC. Maintaining the correct pH and chlorine balance is crucial to keeping the liner in good condition and avoiding early replacement. Regular inspections are a must to catch any issues before they become costly repairs, and keeping sharp or heavy objects out of the pool is essential to prevent damage.

Ideal Homeowners for Vinyl Liner Pools

Vinyl liner pools are ideal for homeowners who want a cost-effective pool without the hefty price tag. If you’re looking to keep your upfront costs low but still want the freedom to customise your pool’s shape and size, vinyl liners are a great option. They’re also a good pick if you like the idea of refreshing your pool’s look —when it’s time to replace the liner, you can easily switch up the colours or patterns to keep things looking fresh.
But if you’re looking for something that can handle more wear and tear or you want to avoid frequent replacements, fibreglass pools might be worth considering. With their smooth, durable surfaces and minimal maintenance needs, fibreglass pools offer long-term savings and peace of mind.

Concrete Pools

Storytime: A Tale As Old As Ancient Rome

Concrete pools have been making waves for millennia. Ancient Romans were among the first to use early forms of concrete to build communal baths and pools. Sure, their designs were pretty basic compared to today’s standards, but they laid the foundation (pun intended!) for what we now recognise as modern concrete pools.

Things really took off in the 1950s with the introduction of the Gunite process. Instead of applying concrete by hand, builders started spraying it onto steel frames using high-pressure hoses. This new technique sped up the process and, best of all, opened up a whole new world of creative design options. Suddenly, pools could be crafted into almost any shape or size imaginable. From sleek, modern designs to intricate, curvy layouts, concrete pools became the go-to for anyone looking to make a bold statement.

Fast forward to today, and while the technology has continued to improve, the basics of concrete pool construction are still largely the same.

Materials & Construction Of Concrete Pools

Building a concrete pool is no small task. It starts with excavation—digging out the precise shape and depth to match your design vision. Next comes the steel reinforcement, where rebar is carefully arranged to create the pool’s skeletal structure. This steel framework not only shapes the pool but also provides the backbone needed to support all that concrete.

Now comes the fun (and messy) part: spraying the concrete. There are two main ways to do this—Gunite and Shotcrete. Both methods involve spraying concrete onto the steel framework, but the difference is in how the concrete is mixed. With Shotcrete, the concrete is pre-mixed with water before being pumped through a hose and sprayed onto the rebar. This method allows for better control, resulting in a smoother surface and a more even application.

After the concrete is shaped and smoothed, the waiting game begins while it cures. Once the concrete has fully set, the pool is finished with a layer of plaster, tile, or aggregate to make it watertight and give it that sleek, smooth finish that’s both durable and comfortable to swim in.

Pros & Cons Of Concrete Pools

Pros

Unlimited Design Options
If you can dream it, you can build it! Concrete pools offer endless design options. Whether it's infinity edges, varying depths, star shapes, hexagon shapes or a pool that wraps around your house, concrete can make it happen. This level of customisation is unmatched, making it a favourite for those with unique design ideas.

Durability and Strength
Concrete pools are built tough and can handle heavy use. Once they’re set, they’re built to last, making them a good investment if you’re willing to put in the time and effort to maintain them.

Cons

High Initial Installation Costs
Concrete pools come with a premium price tag. They are always more expensive than vinyl liner and fibreglass pools. The costs can quickly rise depending on how elaborate your design is and the finishing materials you choose.

Lengthy Construction Time
Building a concrete pool is no quick task and is impacted by the weather. Rain and excessive heat will delay your installation. The process usually takes between 2 to 4 months depending on the season, with excavation, steel framing, concrete application, and all the finishing touches requiring significant time and labour. This means your backyard might be a construction zone for a while, so patience is key.

Intensive Long-Term Maintenance and Higher Cost
Concrete pools are high-maintenance compared to vinyl or fibreglass. As the concrete reacts with the water (it is not inert like vinyl or fibreglass pools), concrete pools require more chemicals to maintain ideal water chemistry levels.  If you don’t vigilantly maintain your pH and chlorine levels and frequently brush down all surfaces, the porous surface allows black spot algae to take hold. Black spot algae can only be removed by resurfacing the pool. Even in a well-maintained pool, the surface layer slowly breaks down and needs to be stripped back and replaced every 10 - 15 years. 

Read More On How Long Different Pools Last

Ideal Homeowners for Concrete Pools

Concrete pools are perfect for homeowners who value customisation above all else. If you want a pool that’s a true one-off, reflecting your exact vision—whether it’s a unique shape or special depth—concrete is the way to go. You get full control over every detail, from the size and shape to the colour and texture of the finish.

But with all that freedom comes responsibility. Concrete pools require a good bit of care to keep them looking their best. If you don’t mind regular cleaning, the cost of resurfacing, and higher annual chemical costs, then a concrete pool can be a fantastic long-term investment that transforms your backyard into something truly spectacular.

Final Thoughts: Which Pool Type Is Best for You?

Choosing the right pool type comes down to your budget, design vision, and how much time and money you’re willing to spend on maintenance in the long run. Each pool type has its unique appeal, so let’s recap to help you weigh your options.

Concrete pools are the top choice if you’re all about design freedom and want a pool that’s truly one-of-a-kind. You can go wild with custom shapes, unique features, and any size you can dream up. But remember, all that flexibility comes at a cost—both in terms of upfront expenses and ongoing maintenance. With higher installation costs and the need for resurfacing every 10-15 years, concrete pools are best suited for homeowners who prioritise style and don’t mind putting in the extra work.

Vinyl liner pools are ideal if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option that offers more flexibility in shape than fibreglass. They’re easy on the wallet initially, and you can get creative with different sizes and configurations. But keep in mind, that the liner will need replacing every 5-10 years, and you’ll need to be extra cautious to avoid tears or punctures. Vinyl is a good choice if keeping initial costs low is your main focus and you’re prepared for some ongoing maintenance.

Fibreglass pools strike the perfect balance. They’re quick to install, durable, and super easy to maintain. While you won’t have the same level of customisation as with concrete, fibreglass pools come in a wide range of shapes and sizes to fit most backyards. Plus, when paired with clever landscaping and added features, you can create a poolscape that’s uniquely yours. They require less maintenance, fewer chemicals, and no resurfacing—making them a smart, long-term investment that’s designed to save you time and money over the years.

The best pool type is the one that suits your needs and lifestyle. Whether you’re dreaming of a luxurious concrete masterpiece, a flexible vinyl liner design, or a durable, low-maintenance fibreglass beauty, there’s an option out there that’s just right for you. Take your time, weigh the pros and cons, and choose the one that will make your backyard the place where great memories are made.

Have More Questions?

Choosing the right pool can be a big decision, and it’s natural to have more questions. If you’re still unsure about which type is the best fit for your home or want to dive deeper into the details, feel free to reach out today! We’re here to help make your pool planning as smooth as possible—no question is too big or too small.