Gunite and concrete pools
Start here when custom form and a design-led pool environment are the priority.
Explore gunite and concreteSwimming Pools
Pool types
Swimming pool installation shaped by the site and the whole outdoor room.
Wave leads custom pool planning with gunite or concrete, then considers fiberglass where site access, available space and shell form make it the stronger fit. Above-ground installation is also available.
Request a Consultation
The three build paths, side by side
Which pool path fits the property and the plan?
| Compare | Gunite and concrete | Fiberglass | Above-ground |
|---|---|---|---|
| Start here when | Custom form and a design-led pool environment are the priority. | Property access, available space and a compatible shell form make it the better fit. | The installation, its deck, access, drainage and landscape connection are planned together. |
| Construction time after approvals and site readiness | Typically six to eight weeks. | Typically three to four weeks. | Ask about timing for the selected kit and deck scope. |
| Typical project-planning range | $120,000–$200,000 | $80,000–$150,000 | Kit-led category; a site-specific budget follows the consultation. |
| Read the path | Gunite and concrete pools | Fiberglass pools | Above-ground pools |
Planning ranges are not quotes or minimum-price promises, and timing varies with design development, municipal review, site conditions, scope, and season. Design and engineering coordination can take about eight weeks and permitting commonly one to three months before construction starts.
Start with the property
Site assessment and intended use should lead the pool-type decision.
Wave's pool design process begins with an extensive property and site assessment. The team then weighs use, footprint, access, design freedom and the relationship to the deck, structures and landscape before narrowing the installation path.
For a broader design discussion, see swimming pool design; for a direct comparison, visit pool comparisons. If vinyl is in your consideration set, use the vinyl-liner pool fit and tradeoffs guide as education, not as a Wave installation offer.
Planning for a narrow footprint or a specific swimming goal? Compare lap pools, plunge pools, and small backyard pools.
Active design paths
Compare the pool formats against the property and design goals.
Gunite or concrete is the flagship custom path. Fiberglass is the second active path when access, available space and a manufactured shell form support the design.
Fiberglass pools
Consider fiberglass when property access, available space and a compatible shell form make it the better fit.
Explore fiberglass installation
Compact pool formats
Compare plunge, lap and small-backyard layouts when the footprint or swimming goal should lead the conversation.
Explore small-backyard pools
Above-ground pools
Consider an above-ground installation with its deck, access, drainage and landscape connection planned together.
Explore above-ground pools
Project planning
Pool features can be planned with the installation type.
Wave offers pool heaters, automation or smart controls, and in-pool or pool-area lighting. Pool safety and security options include automatic covers, pool alarms, and safety fencing.
Wave also handles village permits and engineering coordination for pool projects. Ask about the options that fit your project rather than assuming a feature is included.
Explore Pool FeaturesSee the plan
Custom 3D design is available as a paid add-on.
If seeing the pool concept before construction would help your decision, custom 3D design is available as a paid add-on. Ask about the scope and cost for your project.
Learn about 3D pool design
Choose with the whole project in view
A pool type is one part of the project conversation.
If you are still deciding where to start, return to Wave Outdoors Pools for the broader design-and-build approach. Once a direction feels right, review how the pool construction process is organized and use the pool cost guide to frame the scope questions that affect a proposal.
Pool installation questions
Questions to settle before choosing a pool type.
Start with gunite or concrete when custom form leads the design. Consider fiberglass when access, available space and a compatible shell form support it. Wave also installs above-ground pools.
Wave handles village permits and engineering coordination for your pool project.
Custom 3D design is available as a paid add-on. Contact Wave to discuss the scope and cost for your project.
Wave offers automatic covers, pool alarms, and safety fencing as pool safety and security features. Ask which options fit your project.
Start with the type
Ready to compare pool types for your yard?
Request a project consultation to discuss pool types, design options, and your project goals.
Request a Consultation