Winter hardly seems like the time to think about a fresh dip in an outdoor pool, but it is never too early to start planning. We all enjoy swimming during the summer, and it does not matter if it is in the ocean, a river, or a backyard pool. NOW, is the best time of year to begin planning, for those people keen on having their own swimming pool constructed in their backyard. We are going to look at fiberglass and gunite, two of the most selected materials used in pool construction, as we keep this in mind.

Although fiberglass pools are usually thought of as traditional in style, many manufactures are using design innovation to expand their markets. The "tub" of a fiberglass pool is made of shaped fiberglass resin. The existing hole receives the pre-shaped pool, which is lifted into, where it will be joined to the plumbing. After being properly positioned and connected to the plumbing, the remainder of the hole around the pool is filled in with sand, leveled off, and usually complemented with a concrete deck.

The cheaper cost makes it advantageous to construct a fiberglass pool, for both the buyer, and the manufacturer. The ability of a manufacturer to design and construct the pool in a factory, rather than your backyard, enables them to streamline their work in a more productive manner to make it more efficient. Adding a standard pool to a backyard is a great advantage for homeowners and will add a bit of fun and class. Durability and easy maintenance are two great advantages of fiberglass pools. However, there are also disadvantages associated with choosing a fiberglass pool. Most fiberglass pools are constructed in a standard rectangular shape, because the construction is limited in shape and depth. If you are in the market for a customized pool that will enhance your backyard living space, a gunite pool may be a better match for you.

Currently, gunite pools are by far, the most popular type of pools in America. A gunite pool is constructed by digging a hole of the desired shape and depth, installing the plumbing, and creating a grid of rebar for reinforcement of the sides and bottom. Then, the gunite, which is a combination of concrete and sand, is poured around the rebar and shaped appropriately, just like concrete is poured into and shaped by a form. Before finishing a gunite pool, installation of a top layer of plaster around the whole pool will ensure a clean, smooth finish. The last step is to build a deck to surround the pool, most often made of concrete or wood.

The homeowner can design any pool, in the shape they want, with gunite. In upscale homes, when its owner wants a custom look or an endless pool, gunite becomes the best material to use. Gunite is also utilized to make the natural looking "swimming hole" pools featured in home magazines. A disadvantage of such amazing looking pools is their price. A gunite pool will last the longest, however you need to replace the plastic layer every 10 to 15 years.

You will be making a long-term commitment to a pool, so it's a good idea to talk to a pool design firm that is professional. Know where you are going to put the pool, and what style is the best for that area. As custom pools can be expensive, it is important to have a budget set for your new pool. Relax, and enjoy the process. A wonderful place that you can enjoy throughout year is waiting for you and your family