Types of Pools: Materials, Shapes, and Styles Compared
Pools are classified by construction (in-ground, above-ground, semi-inground), material (concrete or gunite, fiberglass, vinyl liner), shape (geometric or freeform), and purpose (lap pools, plunge pools, spools, infinity edges, and resort-style pools). For custom San Diego backyards, concrete is the most flexible material, while fiberglass and vinyl cost less but come in set shapes.
Key takeaways:
- By material, the three main in-ground pool types are concrete (gunite or shotcrete), fiberglass, and vinyl liner.
- Concrete allows any shape and feature; fiberglass installs faster; vinyl usually costs least upfront.
- Popular styles include geometric, freeform, lap, plunge, spool, infinity edge, and resort-style pools.
- Sanitation options include chlorine and saltwater systems.
- Modern Yardz's custom San Diego pools typically range from about $80,000 to $250,000 or more.
The types of pools you can choose from depend on how a pool is built, what it is made of, its shape, and how you plan to use it. Understanding the options makes it easier to decide what suits your yard and budget. At Modern Yardz, we design custom pools as part of complete backyards across San Diego County.
Pool types by construction
| Type | What it is | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| In-ground | Built into excavated ground | Permanent, custom backyards |
| Above-ground | Freestanding frame and liner | Low budgets, temporary use |
| Semi-inground | Partly buried, partly above grade | Sloped yards, raised edges |
Pool types by material
Concrete (gunite or shotcrete)
The most flexible and durable option. Concrete is sprayed over steel reinforcement in any shape or depth, then finished with plaster, quartz, pebble, or tile. It suits infinity edges, sun shelves, integrated spas, and hillside sites. It costs the most and takes longest to build, and the interior finish needs resurfacing over its life; see our pool resurfacing guide.
Fiberglass
A factory-made shell set into the excavation. It installs quickly and has a smooth, low-maintenance surface, but shapes and sizes are set by the manufacturer and the shell needs crane access. See our fiberglass pool cost guide.
Vinyl liner
A flexible liner over a frame. Vinyl usually has the lowest upfront cost, but liners need periodic replacement and can tear. It is rare in high-end San Diego builds.
| Concrete | Fiberglass | Vinyl | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shape | Any | Manufacturer molds | Mostly standard shapes |
| Upfront cost | Highest | Moderate | Lowest |
| Install time | Longest | Fastest | Moderate |
| Surface | Plaster, quartz, pebble, tile | Smooth gelcoat | Vinyl |
| Long-term upkeep | Periodic resurfacing | Low | Liner replacement |
Our inground pool cost guide compares prices. HomeGuide's national inground pool cost guide puts typical totals at $25,000 to $100,000.
Pool types by shape and style
Geometric pools
Rectangles and clean lines suit modern architecture and make covers and lap swimming easy.
Freeform pools
Curved, natural shapes suit tropical and naturalistic gardens.
Lap pools
Long, narrow pools built for swimming exercise. See our lap pool dimensions guide and lap pool cost.
Plunge pools
Small, deep pools for cooling off and relaxing, ideal for compact yards. See our plunge pool cost guide and small backyard pool ideas.
Spools
A combination of spa and pool, smaller than a full pool and often heated.
Infinity or vanishing-edge pools
Water spills over one edge into a catch basin, merging the pool with the view. They need structural engineering and suit view lots. See our infinity edge pool design guide.
Resort-style pools
Large pools with sun shelves, integrated spas, water features, and fire, designed with outdoor kitchens and lounges. See our Baja shelf size guide.
Natural or reflecting pools
Ponds and reflecting pools used for landscape effect more than swimming.
Pool types by sanitation
Chlorine and saltwater systems both sanitize with chlorine. A saltwater pool uses a salt cell to generate it. See our saltwater pool vs chlorine comparison.
How do you choose the right type of pool?
- How will you use it? Exercise favors lap pools; relaxing favors plunge pools or spools; entertaining favors resort-style pools.
- How much space do you have? Setbacks, easements, and access limit size; see our San Diego pool setback guide.
- What is the site like? Slopes and view lots favor concrete and infinity edges.
- What is the budget? Include decking, fencing, equipment, and landscaping, not just the pool.
- What permits apply? See our pool permit guide.
What do custom pools cost in San Diego?
Modern Yardz's custom pool projects typically range from about $80,000 to $250,000 or more. Plunge pools and compact geometric pools start around $80,000 to $120,000, mid-range pools with spas and water features run $120,000 to $180,000, and resort-style builds with infinity edges and extensive hardscape range from $180,000 to $300,000 or more.
Design your pool
The right pool depends on your site, your style, and how you will use it. Modern Yardz designs custom pools as part of complete backyards, shown in a 3D rendering with a line-item cost. Call 619-775-9554 or book a free design consultation.
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Common questions
- What are the three main types of inground pools?
- Concrete (gunite or shotcrete), fiberglass, and vinyl liner. Concrete allows any shape and feature, fiberglass installs fastest with a smooth surface, and vinyl usually has the lowest upfront cost.
- What is the best type of pool for a small backyard?
- Plunge pools, spools, and compact geometric pools work well in small yards. They provide a place to cool off and relax without taking over the whole space.
- Which pool type lasts the longest?
- A well-built concrete pool can last for decades, with periodic interior resurfacing. Fiberglass shells also last a long time, while vinyl liners need replacement more often.
- What is a spool?
- A spool is a combination of a spa and a small pool. It is larger than a hot tub, smaller than a full pool, and often heated for year-round use.
- How much does a custom pool cost in San Diego?
- Modern Yardz's custom pools typically range from about $80,000 to $250,000 or more, depending on size, features, and site conditions.
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