Countless homeowners dream of one day getting a pool installed, but the variety of materials can become confusing, leaving many to wonder what the common pros & cons of vinyl pools are. Vinyl pools are often seen as one of the most affordable options for a pool, which means you can get your pool quicker and with less expense.
But are vinyl pools worth it? We’re going to dive into the pros & cons of vinyl pools. Ultimately, you should have a better idea of whether or not vinyl is an optimal choice for your pool.
What Are Vinyl Pools?
A vinyl pool is generally made out of a shell constructed of another material, often metal or concrete, that has a heavy-duty vinyl pool lining. The vinyl that is used is polyvinyl chloride, otherwise known as PVC, and is a relatively robust liner that will last for several years, in most cases, before needing repairs of any type.
Pros & Cons Of Vinyl Pools
Pros
Lowest Initial Expense
One of the biggest reasons that many homeowners never take the leap and have a pool installed is that they have heard horror stories about the cost of installation. Not only are the materials for vinyl pools very affordable, but they don’t require complicated or extended installations.
Low Maintenance
If you want a pool, there’s just no way out of doing at least a little bit of maintenance. Since vinyl requires less maintenance than concrete or fiberglass pools, however, that reduction in maintenance can be a significant benefit to some people. The shell is less prone to freezing damage as well, so that can save additional repair expenses during cold winters.
Easily Customizable- To a Degree
One of the best qualities of vinyl pool liners is that they can be obtained in any color you like. Since the color is added to the vinyl during manufacturing, it’s also highly resistant to fading or diminished appearance. Consumers are limited to vinyl options based on brand and pool builder.
Cons
Liners Need Replacement
Since the vinyl liner is relatively thin, it’s going to wear out, become damaged, and eventually need replacement. While fiberglass pools can last 20+ years, and concrete even longer, vinyl liner pools can only hold up for about 10 years before the liner will need replacement. Some reports indicate liners need replaced at five years. It depends upon your liner, method of installation, and durability.
Seams Can Be A Weakness
Depending on the size and shape of your vinyl pool, you may need more than a single liner. This means you’ll need to deal with seams. Even when the liner is installed by experienced professionals it can still end up with a leaking or poorly-joined seam. When seams deteriorate the liner loses its ability to retain water. In addition, sometimes the seam is visible.
Steps Can Damage The Pool Liner
One of the reasons that vinyl liners are damaged or suffer premature wear, is due to stair placement and use. Using the plastic stairs that are used with vinyl pools can lead to the need to replace the liner frequently.
Repairs Opportunities Limited
While some repairs are possible, the potential for extensive repairs often isn’t there with vinyl pools. Extensive repairs often lead to messy seams and a very patchwork appearance that reduces the pool’s attractiveness. Most vinyl pool owners replace the entire vinyl before attempting a patch job.
Pros & Cons of Vinyl Pools: Work With A Local Expert For Your Vinyl Pool
If the cost of materials and installation has put you off from getting a pool, it may be time to look into a vinyl pool. Not only can they be installed quickly and affordably, but they can stand up to moderate use and have a low maintenance and upkeep requirement. For more information about the pros & cons of vinyl pools, reach out and speak with a member of our local expert pool installation team.
