Having an in-ground pool can provide many hours of enjoyment for your friends and family, and it can add to the beauty of your home as well. Buying one is also a major investment, and before you go ahead with the construction, you will want to determine which type fits your budget, your locale, and your landscape. Here are your three main choices:

? Fiberglass in-ground pools are constructed from fiberglass-reinforced plastic that is molded into the shape of a basin, and since they are pre-finished and pre-formed, they also come ready to install. Their smooth surface prevents algae from clinging to them, decreases the need for chemicals to keep the pool clean, and simplifies its maintenance. The builder you consult can provide various options that will fit both your taste and your back yard.

? Vinyl-lined in-ground pools are less labor intensive than concrete pools, and in certain parts of the country, they are less expensive as well. They are available in a wide range of colors and linear patterns, including tile motifs, and they can definitely enhance your surroundings. To install the pool, the builder will dig a hole and assemble a plastic, wood, or metal frame around the perimeter, lay sand along the bottom, and secure the vinyl lining to the wall of the structure. Because they are much less expensive than other in-ground types, these pools are also not as durable, and the liner generally needs to be replaced in 10 years.

? Concrete in-ground pools usually cost less than the fiberglass type, but they are also more expensive than the vinyl variety, and the installation can be a 12-week procedure. Once the hole is made and plumbing is installed, the framework is added, and the concrete is poured and smoothed. It may take a week or longer to settle, and plaster, paint, or pebbles can be added as a final touch.

If you choose this type, you can be very flexible with the design of your pool because customizing the fiberglass and vinyl types is expensive, and this can be done easily. A concrete pool will probably not require as much maintenance as a vinyl one would, and it is also more durable and can withstand various climate changes and “small ground movements.” It will also enable you to complement the surrounding landscape, and add to its aesthetic value and the beauty of your home.