1. Installation Timeline & Process

• Fiberglass: Fastest to install—typically 2–4 weeks. A prefabricated shell is placed into an excavated, prepared site (gravel base), followed by plumbing and backfill 

• Vinyl Liner: Executed in 4–6 weeks: excavation, wall panels, plumbing, concrete base, liner installation, and coping.

• Concrete (Gunite/Shotcrete): Takes 3–6 months due to excavation, steel reinforcement, concrete spraying, curing, and plaster finishing.

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2. Customization & Design Flexibility

• Concrete: Offers unlimited design options in terms of size, shape, and features.

• Vinyl Liner: Offers good flexibility in shape and size, depending on liner availability and manufacturer options.

• Fiberglass: Available in a variety of pre‑molded shapes. Largest shells go up to ~40 ft × 16 ft—covering ~95% of pool needs.

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3. Cost Overview
Initial Installation Costs

• Concrete: Typically $50,000–$120,000 depending on complexity and finishes.

• Fiberglass: Often starts around $50,000. Comparable—or slightly lower—than concrete with faster build time.

• Vinyl Liner: Most budget-friendly upfront. However, liner replacement adds future cost.

Long-Term Maintenance Costs

• Concrete: Highest ongoing expense. Includes periodic cleaning/brushing, acid washing every 3–5 years ($300–$1,000), and replastering every 10–15 years ($8,000–$10,000).

• Vinyl Liner: Requires liner replacement every 8–12 years—typically ~$5,000 each instance; balanced water chemistry helps extend lifespan.

• Fiberglass: Lowest maintenance. Smooth gel‑coat surface resists algae, reduces chemical needs, and avoids replastering.

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4. Durability & Lifespan

• Concrete: Extremely durable with potential for decades or a lifetime of use, but surface wear requires eventual resurfacing.

• Vinyl Liner: The shell may last many years, but liners are prone to tears and need replacement over time.

• Fiberglass: Gel-coat surface resists algae, stains, and wear. With proper care, lasts the life of your home and handles freeze-thaw well.

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5. Maintenance & Chemical Requirements

• Concrete & Vinyl: More porous surfaces promote algae growth and demand higher chemical use. Concrete can also raise pH levels, complicating balance.

• Fiberglass: Non‑porous gel‑coat keeps maintenance straightforward and reduces chemical consumption.

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