Gunite vs. Fiberglass vs. Vinyl Pools

Most pool companies in South Carolina build one type of pool — so guess which one they'll recommend? At Fireside, we build gunite, fiberglass, and vinyl liner pools, which means our only incentive is recommending the right pool for your backyard, budget, and family.

Gunite: The Forever Pool

Gunite pools are built on-site from steel-reinforced concrete, sprayed into a custom-excavated shape and finished with plaster, pebble, or tile. Because the shell is formed in place, there are no limits on shape, depth, or features — infinity edges, beach entries, attached spas, raised walls, and swim-up bars are all on the table.

• Timeline: 8–14 weeks
• Lifespan: Decades — it's a permanent structure that adds real property value
• Maintenance: Periodic resurfacing (every 10–20 years depending on finish)
• Best for: Homeowners who want full customization and the longest-lasting pool

Fiberglass: The Fast, Low-Maintenance Pool

Fiberglass pools arrive as a factory-molded shell and are set into the excavation in days. As an authorized installer of Imagine Pools by Explore Industries, we install proven shapes with built-in tanning ledges, benches, and steps. The smooth gel-coat surface naturally resists algae, which means less scrubbing and fewer chemicals.

• Timeline: As little as a few weeks once permits clear
• Lifespan: 25+ years
• Maintenance: The lowest of any pool type
• Best for: Families who want to swim this season with minimal upkeep

Vinyl Liner: The Custom Shape on a Budget

Vinyl pools pair a custom-built structure with a smooth, flexible liner. They're the most affordable path to a fully custom shape and size, and the non-abrasive surface is gentle on little feet.

• Timeline: 4–8 weeks
• Lifespan: The structure lasts decades; plan on a liner refresh every 7–12 years
• Maintenance: Low — liners naturally resist algae and need fewer chemicals
• Best for: Budget-conscious families who still want a custom pool

So Which Should You Choose?

Here's the shorthand we use at consultations: if you want a one-of-a-kind pool with luxury features that outlives your mortgage, go gunite. If you want the easiest ownership experience and the fastest swim date, go fiberglass. If you want maximum pool for minimum investment, go vinyl.

Upstate South Carolina's clay soils and mild winters suit all three types well — the right answer really does come down to your priorities, which is exactly what we'll talk through at your free design consultation.