Did you know that the average lifespan of an above-ground pool is only 5 to 15 years, compared to 25 to 50 years for an inground fiberglass pool? Moreover, the latter withstands the freeze-thaw cycles of harsh Canadian winters much better.
Given the short duration of our summers, you and your children will want to make the most of your future pool. That’s why it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons of each option before making a decision.
Inground pool or above-ground pool: how to choose?
The question is inevitable when considering installing a pool. Is it better to go with an above-ground or inground model? The answer depends on many factors, including your initial budget, your long-term goals, and your family’s specific needs.
Above-Ground Pools: Advantages and Limitations for Families
Here are some relevant features to help you choose the type of pool that best suits your needs:
Technical Specifications
Above-ground pools offer immediate advantages that appeal to many families:
Affordable Initial Cost: Between $3,000 and $12,000 depending on the model, compared to a minimum of $20,000 for an inground pool;
Simplified Installation: Setup can be completed in just a few days;
Flexibility: Can be disassembled and relocated in some cases;
Fewer Administrative Requirements: Fewer permits needed in most Canadian municipalities.
Major Drawbacks
Above-ground pools have several limitations:
Limited Lifespan: Between 5 and 15 years;
Regular Maintenance: An average of 40 to 70 hours of maintenance per year;
Structural Fragility: Vulnerable to freeze-thaw cycles in the Canadian climate;
Less Harmonious Aesthetic Impact: Difficult to integrate into landscaping;
Vulnerable Pool Liner: Risk of tears or leaks if not properly maintained;
Size and Depth: Round or oval shape with a maximum depth of 54 inches;
No added resale value to the property.
Inground Pools: A Long-Term Investment
Inground pools represent a completely different level of investment, but come with considerable benefits.
Key Advantages
Superior Durability: Between 25 and 50 years depending on the materials used;
Less Maintenance Time: An average of 20 to 30 hours per year;
Increased Property Value: Return on investment up to 50%;
Refined Aesthetics: Harmonizes with landscaping and the yard;
Customization: Multiple options for shapes, depths, and finishes;
Comfort of Use: Easier access and a superior swimming experience.
Challenges to Anticipate
Of course, there is a downside. Let’s look at the challenges to anticipate:
Higher Initial Investment: Starting at $20,000;
More Complex Installation Process: Permits, excavation, technical installation;
Permanent Solution: The location planning must be carefully considered for the long term;
Variable Costs Depending on Materials: Concrete, vinyl, or fiberglass with different implications.
Fiberglass vs. Other Materials: Technical Comparison
In the world of inground pools, three main materials dominate the Canadian market: concrete, vinyl, and fiberglass. Each has distinct characteristics.
Concrete Inground Pool
- Fully customizable in shape and size;
- Lifespan of 25 years or more, requiring renovations every 10 to 15 years;
- Demanding maintenance: 50 to 70 hours per year;
- Long installation time (6 to 12 weeks);
- Requires more chemicals due to porous surface;
- High risk of micro-cracks depending on the soil.
Vinyl Inground Pool
- Intermediate initial cost;
- Smooth and soft surface for swimming;
- Lifespan of the liner: 8 to 10 years (risk of tearing);
- Highly flexible customization;
- Installation in 4 to 8 weeks.
Fiberglass Inground Pool
- One-piece prefabricated structure made of durable resin;
- Quick installation (2 days);
- Easier maintenance compared to concrete and vinyl;
- Saves 70% on chemical costs;
- Built-in thermal insulation (reduces heating costs by 30%);
- 25-year structural warranty.
Why choose an Azoria fiberglass inground pool?
Technological Innovation
Modern Azoria fiberglass pools benefit from significant technological advances. The CovaTec process, consisting of 6 layers (UV gel coat, isophthalic resin, fiberglass mat), provides exceptional durability while maintaining a certain flexibility.
Collections Adapted to All Needs
We offer different collections of inground pools tailored to your environment and your family’s needs.
Urban Elegance: Compact and stylish models that fit perfectly into the limited spaces of urban areas. You enjoy dimensions and features designed to maximize the available space.
Spacious Classicism: Larger designs allowing for a variety of family activities in the more generous spaces of suburban or rural areas, with varied depth zones and secure steps.
The Inviting Effect: Thanks to Aqua Radiance technology, which provides exceptionally durable colors, our pools shine with a unique brilliance and enhance the aesthetics of your pool all summer long.
Exclusive Advantages of Azoria Fiberglass Pools
In addition to being a proud Canadian manufacturer, Azoria understands the specific needs of the local climate and lifestyle. Our collections of fiberglass pools offer you exclusive advantages: durability, safety, savings, and quick installation.
1. Unmatched Durability
With a minimum lifespan of 25 years, including an exceptional warranty, fiberglass pools far outperform the alternatives. Their one-piece structure eliminates the risk of cracks. They also represent the ideal choice given their robustness against temperature variations and ground movements.
2. Enhanced Safety for Children
The ultra-smooth surface (0.5 mm roughness) of fiberglass pools significantly reduces the risk of scratches for children. Additionally, Azoria pools can be equipped with certified safety devices, ensuring maximum protection for children.
3. Long-Term Savings
The reduced maintenance costs and decreased chemical consumption (up to 70% savings) are very advantageous. Additionally, the built-in thermal insulation lowers energy costs by 30%. Finally, over 15 years, comparing a fiberglass pool to a similarly sized concrete option, you save approximately $20,000 ($35,000 vs. $55,000).
4. Express Installation
Count on just 2 days to install a one-piece pool, and a few more days if you add a complete landscaping package by Rinox, depending on the design and the amount of paving needed. Only a few days longer than an above-ground pool.
Key Steps for Your Project
If you are considering purchasing a pool, here are the recommended steps:
- Assessment of family needs: Intended use, number of users, desired activities;
- Analysis of available space: Dimensions, site constraints, sunlight exposure;
- Consultation with experts: Request multiple comparative quotes;
- Verification of local regulations: Required permits, municipal restrictions;
- Overall budget planning: Initial cost, maintenance, equipment, and additional landscaping;
- Plan ahead: Avoid last-minute decisions with your supplier if you want to enjoy your investment quickly.
Conclusion: Fiberglass, the Ally of Demanding Families
What is the primary use you envision for your future pool: family relaxation, physical exercise, or increasing your property’s value?
Choosing a pool is a significant commitment, both financially and in terms of quality of life. Above-ground pools may seem attractive due to their lower initial cost. However, the long-term advantages of inground pools make them a particularly compelling option.
To further guide your decision on the best choice for your family, let yourself be inspired by our various projects.