If you’re comparing types of pools, you’re really making two decisions at once: what to build, and how you’ll maintain it. The pool structure affects cleaning time, which tools fit best, and how long surfaces stay looking new.
This guide covers the main types of swimming pools used in the US and Europe. You’ll also get a simple maintenance checklist that helps you pick the right brush, vacuum head, and perche de piscine télescopique for your pool type.
Quick answer: the 4 pool setups most buyers choose
Most homeowners end up with one of these combinations:
1) In-ground + concrete (gunite/shotcrete)
2) In-ground + fiberglass shell
3) In-ground + vinyl liner (EU: “liner pool”)
4) Above-ground pool (with a liner)
From there, you choose a water system (chlorine, saltwater, or natural) and a style (lap, plunge, infinity, etc.). Note: “saltwater pool” usually describes the sanitation system, not a pool structure.
Types of pools by installation
Installation is the fastest way to narrow your options. It also changes how you clean (depth, reach, and how often you use a long pole).
In-ground pools
In-ground pools are permanent builds and give you the most design flexibility.
- Best for: long-term homes, custom shapes, deeper swim areas
- Typical cleaning needs:
- More wall area to brush
- Deeper ends that often need a longer telescopic pole
- More fittings and corners that collect debris
- Common decisions:
- Material choice (concrete vs fiberglass vs liner)
- Coping and deck design (affects where dirt collects)
Above-ground pools
Above-ground pools are faster to install and usually cost less upfront.
- Best for: seasonal use, smaller budgets, temporary setups
- Typical cleaning needs:
- Liner-friendly brush heads (avoid overly stiff bristles)
- Shorter pole lengths can work if the pool is small
- More attention to seams and the waterline area
- Watch-outs:
- Liner wear from aggressive brushing
- Rail and ladder areas where grime builds up
Semi-in-ground pools
Semi-in-ground pools sit partly below grade. They’re often used on sloped yards.
- Best for: uneven yards, “middle option” budgets
- Typical cleaning needs:
- Similar to above-ground for liner care
- Similar to in-ground for reach (depending on depth)
- Watch-outs:
- Drainage and wall support around the buried section
- More dirt runoff if landscaping is not finished well
Types of pools by structure and material
This is the section that most affects your long-term maintenance and your tool choices. It also explains the US vs EU language differences (for example, “gunite” is common in the US, while “liner pool” is widely used in parts of Europe/UK).
Concrete pools (US: gunite/shotcrete)
Concrete pools are built on-site. In US markets you’ll often hear gunite ou shotcrete, which describe how concrete is applied.
- Pros
- Custom shapes and sizes
- Strong structure with premium feel
- Can be resurfaced later (life extension option)
- Cons
- Surface can be rougher, depending on finish
- Can need more brushing to prevent algae grip
- Repairs/resurfacing can be a bigger project
- Cleaning tips (concrete)
- Use a medium-to-stiff brush head that matches your finish
- Brush walls and steps regularly (corners matter)
- A stable locking telescopic pole helps keep brush pressure consistent
Fiberglass pools
Fiberglass pools are factory-made shells installed in the ground.
- Pros
- Smooth surface (often easier to brush)
- Typically less day-to-day brushing
- Faster installation than many concrete builds
- Cons
- Shape/size options can be limited
- Transport and site access matters
- Repairs need the right materials and trained service
- Cleaning tips (fiberglass)
- Soft-to-medium brush heads protect the finish
- Focus on the waterline where oils collect
- A lightweight telescopic pole reduces fatigue for frequent quick cleanups
Vinyl liner pools (EU/UK: “liner pool”)
Vinyl liner pools use a liner membrane as the water barrier.
- Pros
- Comfortable surface
- Often lower upfront cost than custom concrete
- Many designs use panels with a liner system (varies by country)
- Cons
- Liners can be punctured or scuffed
- Seams and fittings need careful attention
- Liner replacement is a normal lifecycle event
- Cleaning tips (vinyl/liner)
- Use soft brushes and liner-safe vacuum heads
- Avoid sharp edges on tools and pole tips
- Control sand and grit (grit is what scratches liners)
US vs Europe note: In Europe/UK content you’ll see more “liner pool” language and more emphasis on reinforced concrete structures paired with liners in some markets. Keep terms consistent when you’re buying tools or writing specs for distribution across both regions.
Types of pools by water system
These are often described as “pool types,” but they’re more like operating systems. They affect corrosion risk, chemical exposure, and what hardware lasts longer.
Chlorine pools
Chlorine is common worldwide and is familiar to most service teams.
- Pros
- Broad availability of chemicals and parts
- Simple, widely understood maintenance routines
- Cons
- Odor/irritation concerns for some users
- Requires regular testing and dosing
- Cleaning impact
- Normal chemical exposure for tools and poles
- Prioritize sturdy locks and replaceable wear parts
Saltwater pools (salt chlorine generator)
Saltwater setups convert salt into chlorine using a generator.
- Pros
- Often steadier chlorine levels once dialed in
- Many owners like the “feel” of the water
- Cons
- Salt can increase corrosion risk on some metals
- Generator cell replacement is a long-term cost
- Cleaning impact (important)
- Choose corrosion-aware hardware (especially on clamps, pins, and fasteners)
- Rinse tools after use if you’re near coastal air or have high salt exposure
- Consistent pole locking matters because slipping can cause accidental surface damage
Natural pools
Natural pools use biological filtration zones (design varies by region).
- Pros
- Low chemical approach
- Strong “landscape” appeal
- Cons
- Larger footprint (often needs dedicated filtration area)
- Maintenance approach is different from standard pools
- Cleaning impact
- Debris removal and surface skimming can be frequent
- Tools that handle plant matter and fine debris help (net + vacuum options)
Types of pools by style and use
Style is the “why” behind the pool. It affects how debris moves, where dirt settles, and how much reach you need.
Lap pools
Long and narrow, built for exercise.
- Best for: fitness-focused buyers, limited-width yards
- Cleaning pattern:
- Debris collects along long walls and lane-like edges
- Brushing is repetitive (lightweight poles reduce fatigue)
- Vacuuming is straightforward but frequent
Plunge pools and small-yard pools
Smaller pools designed for cooling off and relaxing.
- Best for: compact outdoor spaces
- Cleaning pattern:
- Small volume means water chemistry changes faster
- Dirt can show quickly on floors
- A shorter pole may work, but good control matters
Infinity / overflow edge pools
These use an overflow edge or spillway effect (designs vary).
- Best for: view properties, premium builds
- Cleaning pattern:
- Waterline and edge area need attention
- Fine debris can collect near overflow points
- Use tools that won’t chip finishes near edges
Indoor pools
Indoor pools reduce leaf debris but add humidity and air handling needs.
- Best for: year-round use
- Cleaning pattern:
- Less organic debris, more body oils and waterline film
- Frequent light cleaning is common
- Smooth brushing + waterline tools matter more than deep vacuuming
How to choose the right pool type (simple decision tool)
Ask yourself these five questions. Your answers point to the best pool construction types for your situation.
1) Do you want a permanent in-ground pool or a flexible setup?
- Permanent: in-ground materials (concrete, fiberglass, liner)
- Flexible: above-ground
2) How much time will you spend cleaning each week?
- Less time: fiberglass often feels easier day-to-day
- More customization: concrete, but plan on consistent brushing
3) Do you have kids, pets, or frequent parties?
- High use: prioritize durable surfaces and easy cleaning access
- Consider tool ergonomics (you’ll use them more often)
4) Is your yard windy, dusty, or near trees?
- Heavy debris: you’ll use nets and long poles more often
- Consider pole stiffness and secure locks to avoid wobble
5) US vs Europe distribution: do you need shared terminology and SKUs?
- If yes: standardize specs around installation + material + water system
- Add US/EU naming on packaging and manuals
Cleaning & maintenance checklist (where the telescopic pool pole matters)
Most SERP guides explain pool materials but stop before the practical question: “What do I buy to keep it clean?” This checklist bridges that gap.
Weekly cleaning actions (most pools)
- Skim leaves and floating debris (net + pole)
- Brush walls and steps (brush head + pole)
- Vacuum the floor (manual vacuum head + hose, or robotic cleaner)
- Clean the waterline (waterline brush or sponge tool)
- Check filter pressure and empty baskets
Tool match by pool surface (quick table)
| Pool surface | Brush head | Vacuum head | What to avoid |
|---|---|---|---|
| Concrete / plaster | Medium to stiff (match finish) | Standard vacuum head | Over-flexy poles that “bounce” |
| Fibre de verre | Soft to medium | Smooth-edge vacuum head | Very stiff brushes that haze finish |
| Vinyl / liner | Soft, liner-safe | Liner-safe, smooth edge | Sharp corners, aggressive scrubbing |
Choosing a telescopic pool pole: the practical spec list
When buyers say a pole is “good,” they usually mean it does three things: it stays locked, it feels stable, and it lasts through seasons.
Look for:
- Locking system stability
- Twist-lock or clamp-lock, depending on your market preference
- No slipping under brush pressure
- Reach
- Choose length based on pool width and depth
- If you’re cleaning a deep end or commercial pool, longer reach reduces unsafe stretching
- Weight and stiffness
- Lighter poles reduce fatigue for weekly brushing
- Stiffer poles give better control for vacuuming and brushing corners
- Corrosion-aware details (especially saltwater)
- Pay attention to clamps, pins, and fasteners
- Rinse after use if you have high salt exposure or coastal air
- Compatibilité
- Standard attachment interfaces for brush, net, and vacuum heads
- Replaceable wear parts help buyers reduce long-term cost
If you’re sourcing for retail or brand distribution, make a short spec sheet with:
- Pole length options (collapsed + extended)
- Lock type and load behavior (no-slip claim should be tested)
- Packaging (carton strength, barcode placement, inserts)
- Spare parts plan (clamps, tips, handles)
Internal link idea (edit to match your site):
US & EU buying notes for distributors and importers
If you sell across the US and Europe, the pool market vocabulary changes. Your product listings should match local language.
- US listing keywords:
- “inground pool types,” “gunite pool,” “shotcrete pool,” “pool vacuum pole”
- EU/UK listing keywords:
- “liner pool,” “vinyl liner pool,” “pool cleaning pole,” “telescopic pole”
- Packaging and manuals:
- Add US/EU naming side-by-side to reduce returns and support tickets
- Compliance and auditing:
- Many big retailers and brand buyers ask for social audits and management system certifications before onboarding.
Supplier capability snapshot (for OEM telescopic pool poles)
If you’re building a pole program (private label or OEM), consistent output and testing equipment matter. Xingyong (factory established in 2002) produces aluminum products including pool cleaning telescopic poles and supports OEM by drawing/sample/material processing. The factory lists 14 extrusion machines (350T–2000T), automated anodizing lines with multiple color capability, and a testing center with spectrum analysis and mechanical testing equipment. It also lists certifications including ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 45001, ISO 50001, ISO 9001:2015, and IATF 16949, along with social audits/BSCI, plus a stated monthly output of 3000 tons.:contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}:contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
What this means for you as a buyer:
- You can standardize pole specs and surface finishes for US/EU packaging
- You can ask for consistent QC records (dimensions, coating thickness, hardness, pull tests)
- You can plan multi-SKU programs (different lengths, locks, colors) with stable capacity
Request a sample or an OEM quote
If you’re sourcing aluminum pool cleaning telescopic poles for the US or Europe, send these three details and you’ll get a faster, cleaner quotation:
Pole length range(s) you want (collapsed + extended)
Lock type preference (twist-lock or clamp-lock)
Target market and packaging needs (retail-ready, brown box, pallet shipping)
Request a sample: Contactez notre équipe export
Download a spec sheet: Telescopic Pole Spec Sheet
OEM program talk: Private Label Options
FAQ: types of pools (and tool choices)
What are the main types of pools?
Most buyers start with installation type (in-ground vs above-ground), then choose a structure material (concrete/gunite/shotcrete, fiberglass, or vinyl/liner), then pick a water system (chlorine, saltwater, natural).
What types of pools are easiest to maintain?
Many owners find fiberglass surfaces faster to brush because they’re smooth, but “easy” also depends on debris around your home, your filter setup, and how consistent your weekly routine is.
Are saltwater pools a separate pool type?
Saltwater usually refers to a chlorine-generation system (salt chlorine generator), not a structural pool type. You still choose concrete, fiberglass, or liner as the main pool construction type.
What’s the difference between gunite and shotcrete?
Both describe ways of applying concrete in pool construction. The terms are used differently by region and contractors, so it’s helpful to confirm the finish and maintenance plan rather than focusing only on the label.
What pool type is best for small yards?
Plunge pools and compact fiberglass shells are common small-yard choices. The best option depends on access for installation, yard shape, and whether you want more swim length or more lounging space.
How do pool types affect cleaning tools?
Surface material changes what brush stiffness is safe, and pool size/depth changes how long and stiff your telescopic pool pole should be. Vinyl/liner surfaces need gentler tools than many concrete finishes.
What telescopic pool pole length do I need?
As a rule, you want a pole that reaches your farthest point without over-stretching. Wide pools and deep ends often need longer reach. For small pools, a shorter pole can feel more controlled.
Where can I read more about swimming pools in general?
Wikipedia’s overview is a good starting point for general definitions and history:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Swimming_pool
Sources (factory capability)
- Xingyong brand, factory setup year, extrusion/anodizing/workshop/testing equipment, certifications, output, services, and product categories.:contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
