When the summer months roll around and the heat goes up, many homeowners find themselves wishing they had a swimming pool in their backyard. After all, there is nothing quite like a refreshing dip in the pool to reinvigorate you. If you have kids, then a pool is even more attractive, as many summer days will be spent splashing and having fun.
Yet pools are not cheap, so many homeowners need to seek out swimming pool loans in order to be able to afford them. A swimming pool can certainly add to your home’s value, so it is worth the investment. However, you should know the different types of swimming pools and their pros and cons before jumping in with both feet.
Above-ground Pools
There are many cheap options for temporary above-ground swimming pools. However, here we are talking about permanent ones. Of all the swimming pool types, above-ground swimming pools are definitely the most cost-effective and least complicated option because no excavation is required. Excavations can be complicated, especially when the ground has large rocks in it, or perhaps subterranean cables or pipes.
They are also safer with regard to young children, as the retaining walls of the pool act as an effective barrier to them accidentally falling in.
On the downside, above-ground pools are not necessarily the most aesthetically pleasing option, and they also tend not to last as long as in-ground pools ‒ about seven to 12 years ‒ thereby making them a less attractive investment.
Vinyl-liner Pools
Of all the in-ground pool options, vinyl-liner swimming pools are the cheapest. The vinyl lining is soft and pliable, meaning it can fit just about any size and shape of swimming pool imaginable. Vinyl is also naturally resistant to algae growth, making it cheaper and easier to maintain your pool.
However, vinyl linings are prone to tearing if treated roughly. They only last 10 to 15 years, which means they need to be replaced from time to time, thus incurring extra costs down the line.
Fibreglass Pools
Fibreglass pools are fairly easy to install once the excavations are done since they are pre-manufactured shells that are simply dropped into the ground. They last a lifetime and also inhibit algae growth. Moreover, these kinds of pools are great at keeping pH levels stable.
On the downside, these pools are more costly than vinyl-lined or above-ground pools. Moreover, they tend to come in a limited number of pre-manufactured shapes and sizes, so a custom design is off the table. However, they represent a worthwhile long-term investment and will raise the value of your home.
Concrete Pools
Concrete pools are the most expensive option. However, they provide the most flexibility in terms of size and shape. Whatever designs you can dream up for a swimming pool can be realised in a concrete pool.
The downside of these pools is their cost ‒ not only to install but to maintain as well. Concrete pools tend to build up a lot of algae and can make pH levels difficult to manage. However, the investment in a concrete pool will certainly raise the value of your property.
If you want to invest in a swimming pool for your home, we at iCREDIT can assist you with finding and comparing the best possible swimming pool loans to ensure you get the best deal possible. Contact us today for more information!