TYPES OF INGROUND POOLS

The best pool type is the one that fits your priorities.

Start with what matters most: design freedom, installation speed, thermal performance, surface feel, initial investment and long-term ownership.

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MATERIAL BEFORE MARKETING

Four pool systems. Four different reasons to choose them.

There is no universal “best” pool. A fully custom concrete pool can solve a site and design that a factory shell cannot. Fiberglass can be a smarter answer when speed and a smooth surface matter more than unlimited geometry. ICF adds insulation to a concrete wall system; vinyl prioritizes entry cost and a replaceable interior.

Custom Pools Utah’s core focus is high-end custom concrete, package concrete and ICF construction. We explain the alternatives because a good builder should help you choose the right category before selling a specific product.

Finished custom gunite pool with a raised spa in Southern Utah

BEST FORMaximum customization

Shotcrete / gunite concrete

A reinforced-concrete shell formed on site by pneumatically placing concrete. Gunite is the dry-mix form of shotcrete; wet-mix shotcrete arrives pre-mixed.

Why people choose it

One-of-one shapes and depths
Integrated spas, ledges and vanishing edges
Caves, rock slides and sculpted water features

What to consider

Usually the longest, most craft-dependent build path. Proper placement and curing are critical, and the interior finish will eventually need renewal.

Read the full guide ↗

ICF pool shell under construction in a Utah backyard

BEST FORInsulation and formed geometry

ICF concrete

Reinforced concrete placed inside stay-in-place EPS forms. It is a concrete pool with insulation built into the wall assembly.

Why people choose it

Heated or season-extending pools
Indoor pools and colder Utah climates
Geometric forms and vertical walls

What to consider

Requires an ICF-experienced team and a compatible waterproofing/finish system. It is not automatically the best path for highly sculpted freeform work.

Read the full guide ↗

Fiberglass pool shell being lowered into an excavated Utah backyard

BEST FORSpeed and a smooth surface

Fiberglass shell

A factory-made composite shell delivered in one piece and set into an excavated site.

Why people choose it

Faster installation is a priority
You like an available factory shape
A smooth, nonporous surface appeals

What to consider

The design, size and depth come from a manufacturer’s mold. Delivery access and crane logistics can rule out otherwise attractive options.

Read the full guide ↗

Vinyl liner being installed inside an inground swimming pool

BEST FORLower entry cost and a soft surface

Vinyl-liner pool

A framed pool structure with a custom-fitted vinyl membrane providing the water-facing surface.

Why people choose it

Initial budget matters most
You want a softer interior surface
You are comfortable planning for liner replacement

What to consider

The liner is a replaceable component that can be punctured or damaged. Premium structural details and long-term service access still matter.

Read the full guide ↗

START WITH THE EXPERIENCE

Construction type is only half the decision.

After choosing the shell system, decide what kind of water experience the space should support.

Geometric pool

Chosen for modern architecture, strong sightlines, covers, lap swimming and efficient use of rectangular spaces.

Freeform pool

Chosen for softer landscapes, natural rock work, play zones and an organic resort feeling.

Plunge pool

Chosen for compact yards, cooling and lounging when full swim length is unnecessary.

Lap or fitness pool

Chosen when consistent length, unobstructed lanes and exercise are primary.

Pool + raised spa

Chosen for warm-water use, social seating and a spillway that adds movement.

Resort / feature pool

Chosen when slides, caves, waterfalls, ledges and entertaining are the main event.

A PRACTICAL SHORTLIST

Tell us what you value most.

Maximum customization → concreteInsulated concrete walls → ICFFactory-built speed → fiberglassLower entry cost → vinyl liner

COMMON QUESTIONS

Straight answers before the first dig.

Is gunite different from concrete?+

Gunite is the dry-mix shotcrete process used to place concrete pneumatically. It is a placement method, not a separate shell material.

Is ICF a type of concrete pool?+

Yes. ICF forms remain as insulation around a reinforced-concrete core.

Which pool type offers the most design freedom?+

Site-built shotcrete or gunite concrete generally offers the greatest freedom for custom shapes, depths, integrated spas and sculpted features.

Do you install every type listed here?+

Our main paths are custom concrete, package concrete and ICF pools. Fiberglass or vinyl availability should be confirmed for the specific project and service area.

READY WHEN YOU ARE

Not sure which pool type fits? Start with your priorities.

Build my starting plan (435) 359-7449