Longevity is usually the deciding factor when choosing a type of inground pool. Nobody wants to sink money into a backyard build that won’t hold up for the long haul. The good news is that both options we install at Hinkle Outdoor Living, fiberglass and gunite, are built to last when the job is done right.
The Two Inground Pool Options We Offer
We install two pool types: fiberglass and gunite. Each one fits a different home and price point.
Fiberglass: A Consistent, Warranty-Backed Build
Fiberglass is a nice product with strong appeal for most homeowners. Manufacturers build the shells in temperature-controlled facilities, which keeps the build quality consistent across every pool. Fiberglass also comes with a warranty that lasts as long as you own the home, which most homeowners find reassuring. The main limitation is finding a shell you like, since you’re choosing from existing options. We work with two manufacturers, so there’s a fair amount of variety to consider.
Gunite: A Premium Option for Higher-End Homes
Gunite is the more expensive of the two pool types. We typically see it run about 25 to 30 percent more than fiberglass. It’s the option we install most often for clients with home values north of $1.2 million, where the market tends to favor a more upscale product paired with a luxury home.
Pro Tip: Fiberglass tends to be the better fit for homes valued at $1.2 million and under. Gunite makes more sense for higher-end homes above that price point.
Comparing Longevity by Type of Inground Pool
Both products are built well, and the longevity comes down to how each one is installed.
Installation Quality Drives the Lifespan
In our experience, fiberglass and gunite both hold up well over time as long as a qualified crew installs them correctly. The longevity tends to be roughly equal between the two when an experienced team handles the build. The quality of the install is what protects your investment, no matter which pool type you choose.
Pebble Sheen: A 20-Year Plaster Finish
For our gunite pools, we use Pebble Sheen as our standard plaster finish. It’s a 20-year product, and we like the results we’re seeing from it. The finish works especially well in a more luxurious home, which is why we feel confident recommending it for our higher-end gunite builds.
Key Takeaway: Both pool types last when they’re installed correctly, and quality materials like Pebble Sheen plaster support that longevity.
Need expert help picking the best pool for your home? Contact Hinkle Outdoor Living for a free consultation.
Which Pool Offers the Best Long-Term Value?
Longevity is one part of the equation. The other is what the pool adds to your property over time, especially if you ever decide to sell.
Outdoor Living Drives Resale Value
More homeowners are looking for a nice outdoor living space paired with a gunite pool. That kind of setup adds real appeal at the higher end of the market, where buyers expect more from a backyard.
ROI for Each Type of Inground Pool
Both pool types can add value at resale, and we see stronger ROI on gunite installations at higher-end properties. For example, the luxury market tends to reward homeowners who invest in a thoughtfully designed pool and outdoor living area.
Build a Pool That Lasts with Hinkle Outdoor Living
Fiberglass and gunite both hold up well when an experienced team handles the installation. Your final choice depends on your home value, your design preferences, and the kind of outdoor space you want to build. We’ve helped clients across both ends of the market find the best match for their home. Schedule a consultation with Hinkle Outdoor Living today and let our team help you choose the right type of inground pool for your home.
