If you are looking for a place to wind down and make your outdoor space stand out, you can choose among the various types of pools as an addition to your house.
Or if you are more focused on your physical wellness and want to lead an active lifestyle, installing a swimming pool is a great choice for your space.
Places where temperatures rise to the 40s, swimming pools prove to be a place to cool off, relax, and enjoy time with family and friends.
In this blog, we will discuss the various types of swimming pools to give you an idea of which one is suitable for your space.
Also Read: 10 Stunning Water Feature Design Ideas to Upgrade Your Outdoor Space
Understanding the Types of Pools Before You Build
By exploring the types of swimming pools available, you can balance aesthetics, functionality, and budget to create an outdoor retreat that fits perfectly with your vision.
| Pool Category | Design and Features | Pros | Cons |
| Fiberglass Swimming Pools | Premade shells molded from fiberglass, making them durable | Easy to maintain and prevents algae growth | Limited customization and higher upfront costs |
| In-Ground Pool | A water-filled permanent fixture built into the ground | Offers various shapes, sizes, and caters to different uses | Expensive to build and maintain |
| Above-Ground Swimming Pools | Installed above the ground, and are ideal for people looking for temporary options | Portable and demand minimal site preparation | Less durable and offer limited depth options |
| Lap Pools | Long, narrow, rectangular-shaped pools built in various lengths and widths | Work in a narrow backyard and are great for swimmers | Rarely offer options for steps, sitting areas, and other features |
| Infinity Swimming Pools | Creates the illusion of pools that extend into the horizon. The vanishing edge makes a seamless look | Efficient for energy consumption | High construction costs and maintenance challenges |
| Vinyl Liner Pools | Use a metal or plastic frame covered with a custom vinyl liner to hold water in place | Require less maintenance and are not expensive to install | Fragile and provides an environment for algae to grow in. |
Match Your Space with the Various Types of Pools
When planning to install the different types of pools, keep in mind how much work you want to do to maintain them and what kind of design would go along with your space.
With the mentioned information, you will be equipped to make the right choice from various types of pools.
1. Fiberglass Swimming Pools
Fiberglass swimming pools are premade shells molded from fiberglass. They are reinforced with a polymer coating, which makes them durable and solid. They are easy to clean and are resistant to algae growth. Fiberglass pools require little maintenance compared to other swimming pool types.
Because these pool types are resistant to algae and other bacteria, they require fewer chemicals. This reduces the number of harmful chemicals released into the environment.
Why Choose Fiberglass Pools
The following are a few benefits of its installation:
- Fiberglass swimming pools are easy to install and are ideal for retaining heat.
- They are available in various colors and are completely saltwater compatible.
- Its smooth surface allows for better water circulation, and because of such premium features, it increases the resale value of a home.
The following are a few limitations:
- Customization limitations
- Challenging to match colors for patching and repair
- Higher upfront costs
Types According to Shapes and Finishes
Fiberglass pools can be customized with various features. They include built-in benches, ledges, and steps. They can also be designed with different depths.
The following are the fiberglass swimming pool types:
- Classic rectangle pools
- Kidney pools
- Freeform fiberglass swimming pools
- Lap pools
- Spools
The following are the types of pools according to finishes:
- Gelcoat
- Vinyl ester
- Paint
Also Read: An Ultimate 2025 Home Swimming Pool Sizes and Dimensions Guide
2. In-Ground Swimming Pools
An in-ground pool is a water-filled fixture built into the ground. This makes them a permanent fixture in your backyard. These pool types are made of concrete and can be customized according to your requirements.
They are among the pool types that are complex to install. Contractors need to obtain permits, dig the space, and then begin the installation. Later on, the finishing touches are added by doing plumbing and electrical work, and testing the pool.
Why Choose In-Ground Pools
The following are a few benefits of its installation:
- You can choose from various shapes, sizes, and features.
- With proper care, inground pools can last for decades.
- They cater to a variety of uses, such as for exercise routines and family gatherings.
The following are a few limitations of different types of in-ground pools:
- High initial cost
- Long installation timeline
- Maintenance requirements
- Seasonal limitations
Different Types of In-Ground Pools
The following are the types of in-ground pools:
- Gunite
- Concrete with plaster or aggregate finishes
- Concrete and tile or stone
- Vinyl
- Containers
3. Above-Ground Swimming Pools
Above-ground swimming pools are installed above the ground and are ideal for people looking for temporary options. Installing an above-ground pool is quicker and requires less groundwork.
These pool types are available in various sizes, making them suitable for small gardens or a large yard.
Why Choose Above-Ground Pools
The following are a few benefits:
- These types of pools can be disassembled and moved, a unique benefit of portability.
- They demand minimal site preparation.
- The permitting and zoning requirements are simpler and faster.
The following are a few limitations:
- Above-ground pools are less durable, resulting in a shorter lifespan.
- They offer limited depth options and are smaller than their in-ground counterparts.
- They generate noise while in motion and have limitations in terms of customization.
Types of Above-Ground Pools
The following are the types of above-ground pools:
- Easy set or inflatable above-ground pool
- Steel frame above-ground pool
- Traditional above-ground pool
- Semi-inground pool
Also Read: Swimming Pool Maintenance Checklist: A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners
4. Lap Swimming Pools
Considering health and fitness goals, many homeowners opt for a lap pool. It is a long, narrow, rectangular-shaped pool for those who swim.
They are one of the pool types that can be built in a variety of lengths and widths according to your swimming needs. They are suitable for small courtyards and small gardens, taking up less space for training.
Why Choose Lap Pools
The following are a few benefits:
- Lap pools work in a narrow backyard and can be installed in concrete, vinyl, or acrylic sheets.
- They are among the types of swimming pools that can be customized
- Lap pools are great for swimmers.
The following are a few limitations of lap pools:
- The length may be limited because of the yard size
- Requires a gate or fencing, depending on local regulations
- Rarely offer options for steps, sitting areas, and other features
Types of Lap Pools
The following are the types of lap pools:
- Above-ground lap pools
- Infinity lap pools
- Endless pools
5. Infinity Swimming Pools
Among the different types of pools is an infinity pool found in high-end resorts, spas, and hotels.
Infinity swimming pools are also negative-edge pools, which create the illusion of pools that extend into the horizon. The vanishing edge makes a seamless look. It has a main pool, which gives way to the barrier where the water flows over. It also has a lower catch basin that collects water and pumps it back into the main pool.
Why Choose Infinity Swimming Pools
The following are a few benefits of infinity pools:
- It blends with the rest of the scenery. An infinity pool attracts potential buyers and offers a better ROI than traditional pools.
- The filters and motors recycle the water, making it efficient for energy consumption.
- You can include a steamer, a hot tub, a small catch pool for kids, or a jacuzzi.
The following are a few limitations:
- High construction costs
- Maintenance challenges
- Not ideal for small spaces
- Additional energy usage
Types of Infinity Swimming Pools
The following are the types of infinity pools based on construction:
- Concrete infinity pools
- Fiberglass infinity pools
- Vinyl-lined infinity pools
Also Read: 7 Luxury Swimming Pool Designs to Enrich Your Outdoor Space
6. Vinyl Liner Pools
Among the different types of pools, if you are looking for one on a budget, you must choose a vinyl liner. They use a metal or plastic frame covered with a custom vinyl liner to hold water in place. Vinyl liner pools are the best type of pool because of their lower maintenance and fast installation time.
Why Choose Vinyl Liner Pools
The following are a few benefits of vinyl liner pools:
- They require less maintenance.
- Offers customization options.
- Vinyl pools are less expensive to build and install.
The following are a few limitations:
- Pointy objects can puncture the lining. This makes vinyl liner pools fragile.
- The liner provides an environment for algae to grow in.
- Surface finishes can look cheap.
Types of Vinyl Liner Pools
The following are the types of vinyl liner pools:
- Steel wall vinyl liner pool
- Cement wall vinyl liner pool
- Polymer or composite wall liner pool
Also Read: Infinity Pools vs Skimmer Pools: Which is Best for Your Home in Dubai
Your Guide to Pools, Wrapped Up
When it comes to designing your dream backyard or upgrading your property, understanding the different types of pools can make all the difference. Whether you are drawn to the practicality of a lap pool or the portability of an above-ground pool, there’s a style to suit every lifestyle and space.
No matter the size of your property, whether it is a villa, rooftop, or garden, there’s a pool type waiting to transform your space into a refreshing escape.
Deciding on major projects such as the installation of a swimming pool requires expert guidance. Contact the swimming pool contractors in Dubai at KLG to discuss your vision. KLG provides professional consultation with years of experience in the swimming pool maintenance services industry.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q1. What is the best type of pool liner?
Vinyl liners are the top choice for inground pools due to their affordability and versatility. Available in a wide range of colors and patterns, vinyl liners offer excellent customization options to suit any style.
Q2. What type of pool is most cost-effective?
Metal wall, vinyl liner pools are among the most cost-effective inground pools to install. Their installation costs are significantly lower compared to concrete pools because less intensive labor is required. The initial cost includes the price of the metal walls and the vinyl liner.
Q3. What pool type is easiest to maintain?
Fiberglass is the easiest type of pool to maintain. The reason is that a vinyl liner pool and concrete are porous, creating more algae to clean and requiring more chemicals. Also, it’s more difficult to maintain pH levels in a concrete pool because concrete increases the pH of the water.
Q4. How many types of swimming pools are there?
Swimming pools come in many different types, shapes, and sizes. However, they all fall into one of three categories: ‘ above ground,’ ‘semi-in ground, ‘ or ‘in ground.’ Then they are further categorized by the type of material they are constructed from.
Q5. What shape of pool is best?
If lap swimming is a priority, a rectangular pool with two long straight edges may be the best choice. If you enjoy lounging, a freeform or kidney-shaped pool might be a great choice.
