The market for home swimming pools is a competitive one. There are lots of quality options to choose from, and advances in technology are continually making pools safer and more durable. Still, purchasing a pool is a big, long-term investment. You want to get it right the first time. There are several factors to consider, including cost—both up-front and long-term—durability, safety, maintenance, installation, and additional features like built-in seating and non-abrasive surfaces. The market for pools in Toronto is largely led by two options, fibreglass pools and vinyl liner pools. Each have their relative strengths and weaknesses, so give both close consideration.
Pros and Cons of Vinyl Liner Pools
Vinyl liner pools have become popular with many homeowners, in large part because they can be installed for a lower price. Here are few things to consider before buying one, however:
Pros
- Lower up-front costs: Vinyl liner pools are popular mostly because they cost less initially than their competitors, including fibreglass pools.
- Customizable: These pools can be built to conform to whatever length, width, and depth the homeowner prefers.
- No algae: Vinyl liners are generally non-porous. This prevents the growth of algae and cuts down on associated sanitation costs.
Cons
- Lack of durability: The vinyl liner is only 20-30 millimetres, not thick enough to withstand a major impact. For example, windstorms can do damage by causing things to fall into the pool.
- Higher long-term costs: Vinyl liner pools cost less up front, but your wallet will eventually take a hit. Again, durability is an issue. The liners usually last 7-15 years and a replacement will cost about $3,500.
- Little resale value: If you decide to sell your home, a vinyl liner pool won’t add much to the resale price, especially if it’s getting close to the 7-year mark. Your buyer may ask you to replace the liner before they sign off on the purchase.
Pros and Cons of Fibreglass Pools
Many homeowners in Toronto and the surrounding area prefer fibreglass over vinyl and other available options. Durability is one big reason why. Here are a few factors to consider:
Pros
- Little maintenance is required: Fibreglass pools are made with a nonporous gel coat. That protects the pool from algae growth, meaning that you won’t have to invest as much in sanitizing the pool.
- Minimal follow-up costs: Investing in fibreglass is essentially a one-off. You have to make day-to-day maintenance (as you would with any type of pool), but you very rarely have to put extra money into the shell. There’s no vinyl liner to replace and resurfacing isn’t required.
- Fast, convenient installation: Fibreglass pools are manufactured off-site in a controlled factory environment. That helps ensure quality and means the pool will be 100% ready when it arrives at your home. A good installation crew can finish the process in 3-4 weeks.
Cons
- Limited customizability: These pools are built off-site from a mold, so the customer has a fairly limited menu of shapes and sizes to choose from.
- Pay more up front: Fibreglass pools in Toronto cost a few thousand dollars more initially than those with vinyl liners, although minimal follow-up costs mean the investment is still positive.
There are things to like about both vinyl liner and fibreglass pools. On the whole, however, fibreglass is a more solid investment. If you’re looking for a fibreglass pool for your home in Toronto, consider Seabreeze Pools. We’re experts in planning, installation, and maintenance, and can help make your dream an affordable, sustainable reality. Call us today at 416-238-9703 to discuss the options available for you home.