Pool Installer Vs Pool Builder
What’s the difference between a pool installer and a pool builder and which one do you need?
Planning to install a pool in your backyard? One of the first questions you’ll face is whether to work with a pool installer or a pool builder.
While both can deliver a stunning swimming pool, they offer very different approaches. Understanding the difference is key to choosing the right pool solution for your home.
What Does a Pool Installer Do?
A pool installer specialises in the installation of pre-manufactured pools, commonly referred to as drop-in pools. These are usually made from fibreglass or vinyl and arrive as a ready-made shell that’s simply placed into an excavated hole.
Considerations of hiring a pool installer:
Installation: Most fibreglass drop in pools can be installed in a week or so.
Cost-effective: A pool installer typically offers a more affordable solution due to reduced labor and streamlined construction.
Low maintenance: Fibreglass surfaces are smooth and non-porous, making them easy to clean and resistant to algae.
Pre-designed models: You’ll need to choose from standard shapes and sizes.
Durability: Drop in pools are generally not as durable and can be more prone to leaks and breakage due to sitting on a sand floor.
Ideal for: Homeowners who want a pool installed quickly and within a defined budget. (Though bear in mind a pool installer is sometimes are more affordable – we recommend you always do your due diligence and get a quote).
What Does a Pool Builder Do?
A pool builder constructs custom swimming pools onsite, usually from concrete (gunite or shotcrete). This approach allows for complete customisation in terms of size, shape, depth, and features. Mayfair Pools & Spas builds the pool base and surrounds with concrete, lined with a custom fibreglass shell.
Considerations:
Custom design: Tailor every detail to your personal taste and your outdoor space.
Add custom features: Waterfalls, spas, infinity edges, lighting systems - you name it.
Investment: Custom builds sometimes involve more time, labor, and materials, which can mean higher upfront costs. This is not always the case, however.
Maintenance demands and costs:
Concrete:
In the event of ground movement, an earthquake or flooding a concrete pool a concrete pool can shift and crack, requiring expensive repairs.
Concrete pools may require regular acid washes.
Fibreglass:
Fibreglass is an extremely strong, hard-wearing and durable material. It will outlast any other swimming pool surface – including concrete.
Fibreglass offers low maintenance. Being smooth and non-porous, a fibreglass pool requires less cleaning, less chemicals and less ongoing maintenance costs.
Ideal for: Homeowners looking for a one-of-a-kind pool with complete control over the design and layout and a durable, long lasting product.
Mayfair Pools: The best of both worlds
What if you could combine the strength and customisability of a concrete pool with the efficiency and low maintenance of a fibreglass finish? That’s exactly what Mayfair Pools & Spas delivers.
Mayfair Pools offers a unique pool installation system that gives you the best of both worlds. Our pools are built onsite like a traditional concrete pool, providing unmatched structural strength. But instead of leaving the interior as rough concrete or tiling, it’s finished with a smooth, flexible fibreglass lining—creating a stunning, easy-care pool surface.
Why Choose Mayfair Pools:
Custom-built onsite: Tailored to your space, just like a traditional concrete pool.
Reinforced concrete surrounds: Delivers long-lasting strength and peace of mind.
Fibreglass interior finish: Smooth, hygienic, and gentle underfoot—easy to maintain and beautiful to look at.
Mayfair’s proprietary insulation: Unlike the other pool types, every Mayfair pool is built with our proprietary insulation, extending your swim season and improving the efficiency of any heating systems.
Award-winning quality: Trusted by homeowners and industry professionals alike.
With Mayfair Pools, you’re not limited to pre-made shapes or sacrificing quality for speed. You get the custom feel of a pool builder with the efficiency of a professional pool installer all in one.
Which Option Is Best for You?
Choose a traditional pool installer if:
You want a fast, possibly more affordable pool installation and are happy with standard shapes and sizes.Choose a pool builder if:
You want full creative control and are prepared for a longer, more involved process.Choose Mayfair Pools if:
You want a custom-designed pool installed by experts, with the structural integrity of concrete and the modern convenience and longevity of fibreglass.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re comparing pool builders, searching for the best pool installer, or looking for an innovative solution like Mayfair Pools, the right choice depends on your goals, budget, and timeline. Mayfair Pools stands out by offering a hybrid model that meets the needs of modern homeowners: customised, durable, and low-maintenance.
If you're ready to transform your backyard with a professionally built & installed swimming pool that offers both form and function, consider Mayfair Pools as your trusted pool installer.
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