Adding a pool to your backyard is an exciting decision, but choosing the right type of pool is just as important as the design itself. Two of the most popular options are gunite and fiberglass pools. While both have their own benefits, they differ in important ways that can impact how your pool looks, feels, and functions over time.
At Cody Pools, we build thousands of custom pools across Texas, Florida and Arizona, and in most cases, we recommend gunite for its design flexibility, durability, and long-term value. That said, we want to help you make an informed decision by breaking down the key differences between the two.
Customization and Design Options
Fiberglass:
These pools are made in pre-fabricated molds, meaning your choices are limited to a set number of shapes, sizes, and features. While this can be ideal for simpler designs, it doesn’t allow for much creativity or adaptation to unique backyard layouts.
Gunite:
Gunite pools are built entirely on-site, which allows for unlimited design possibilities. Whether you want a custom shape, integrated spa, beach entry, or features like a tanning ledge or waterfall, gunite gives you the freedom to bring your exact vision to life.
Durability and Longevity
Fiberglass:
The smooth, nonporous surface of fiberglass helps resist algae and can make maintenance easier in the short term. However, fiberglass shells can be susceptible to warping, cracking, or surface fading over time (especially in areas with shifting soil or extreme temperatures).
Gunite:
Known for its strength and long-term reliability, gunite is reinforced with steel and concrete, making it more resistant to structural issues. With proper maintenance, a gunite pool can last for decades and can be resurfaced when needed to keep it looking like new.
Installation Process
Fiberglass:
Because they’re delivered as one solid piece, fiberglass pools generally have a faster and more straightforward installation process. However, the size and shape are limited to what can be transported and delivered to your location.
Gunite:
The gunite installation process involves more steps, including excavation, steel, plumbing, and on-site concrete application. While it takes longer than fiberglass, this approach allows for full customization and a truly tailored result.
Aesthetic and Finish Options
Fiberglass:
Most fiberglass pools offer a smooth gelcoat finish in a limited range of colors. While clean and functional, the look tends to be more uniform and less customizable.
Gunite:
Gunite pools can be finished with a wide variety of materials like plaster, pebble, quartz, tile, travertine, porcelain and glass tile, to create a high-end, resort-style appearance. You also have more freedom to coordinate the pool with your overall landscape design.
Cost and Long-Term Value
Fiberglass:
Often chosen for its lower upfront cost and shorter installation timeline, fiberglass can be a good fit for simpler projects. However, design and size limitations may impact the overall value and experience over time.
Gunite:
While gunite typically involves a higher initial investment, it often provides greater long-term value. The ability to fully customize the design, combined with its durability and visual appeal, makes gunite a top choice for homeowners looking to create a truly standout outdoor space.
Our Take
Both pool types can offer a great backyard experience but if you’re looking for a custom design, long-term durability, and a high-end look and feel, gunite is hard to beat.
At Cody Pools, we specialize in building gunite pools that are designed around how you want to live, relax, and entertain. We’ll work with you to create a pool that fits your space, your style, and your goals.
Let’s Design Your Dream Pool
Interested in exploring your options? Contact us today for a free consultation, and let’s talk about what’s possible for your backyard.
Cody Pools has once again been named the #1 Pool Builder in the nation by Pool & Spa News for 2025! This marks the 13th consecutive year we’ve earned the top spot on the industry’s most respected list of pool builders.
Each year, Pool & Spa News evaluates pool builders from across the country based on residential construction revenue, industry leadership, community involvement, and customer satisfaction. To be recognized at the top year after year is a true honor—and one that we don’t take lightly.
What This Recognition Means
Being named the #1 Pool Builder in the U.S. isn’t just about volume—it’s about consistently delivering exceptional craftsmanship, innovative design, and unforgettable outdoor living experiences. From custom infinity edge pools and tanning ledges to fire features, spas, and outdoor kitchens, we design and build spaces that enhance lifestyles and bring families together.
A Thank You to Our Team and Clients
This milestone wouldn’t be possible without the dedication of our incredible team and the trust of our clients. Our designers, project managers, and skilled construction crews pour their heart into every project, and it shows in the results. To our customers—thank you for choosing Cody Pools to bring your backyard dreams to life.
Looking Ahead
As outdoor living continues to evolve, we remain committed to leading the way in luxury pool design and construction. We’re always exploring new materials, smart technology, and sustainable practices to ensure that every Cody Pools project is not only beautiful but built to last.
If you’re ready to create your own backyard retreat with the nation’s top pool builder, we’d love to help you get started. Contact us today to explore what’s possible.
Here’s to 13 years at the top—and many more to come!
When it comes to transforming your outdoor space into a personal oasis, size doesn’t always matter. That’s especially true with plunge pools, a growing trend in modern backyard design that combines compact convenience with upscale relaxation.
At Cody Pools, we specialize in crafting pools of all sizes to suit our clients’ unique lifestyles. If you’re looking for a refreshing retreat without the footprint of a traditional pool, a plunge pool might be exactly what you need.
So, What Exactly is a Plunge Pool?
A plunge pool is a small, shallow pool designed primarily for cooling off, light exercise, hydrotherapy, and relaxation. Despite their smaller size, plunge pools offer many of the same benefits as full-sized pools with lower maintenance, reduced costs, and greater flexibility in where they can be installed.
Why Choose a Plunge Pool?
Here are a few reasons homeowners may choose a plunge pool:
Perfect for Small Backyards
Don’t have the space for a sprawling pool? No problem. Plunge pools are ideal for urban homes, patios, and tight spaces allowing you to enjoy a luxury pool experience even in limited spaces.
Great for Relaxation
Many plunge pools come equipped with built-in bench seating, heating and cooling options, and spa jets, turning your backyard into a private wellness retreat. Cold plunge? Heated soak? You can have both.
Lower Cost, Lower Maintenance
Plunge pools are generally more affordable to install and easier to maintain than traditional pools. With less water, fewer chemicals needed, and smaller filtration systems, they’re a smart choice for budget-conscious homeowners.
Style and Versatility
Whether you’re after a modern, geometric design, plunge pools are highly customizable. They can be standalone features or integrated with other elements like waterfalls, fire features and tanning ledges.
Fitness and Hydrotherapy
A plunge pool is great for low-impact aquatic exercises, resistance training with swim jets, and post-workout recovery. Athletes and wellness enthusiasts love the therapeutic benefits of hydrotherapy in a controlled, compact setting.
Is a Plunge Pool Right for You?
If you’re looking for a luxurious, space-efficient, and cost-effective way to elevate your backyard, a plunge pool may be the perfect fit. Whether you’re relaxing solo, entertaining friends, or recovering after a long workout, a plunge pool delivers maximum comfort in a minimal footprint.
At Cody Pools, our award-winning design team can help you create a custom plunge pool that reflects your vision, enhances your property, and provides a daily dose of luxury.
Ready to Dive In?
Contact Cody Pools today to schedule a consultation and start designing the plunge pool of your dreams.
At Cody Pools, we’re not just about creating stunning backyard retreats—we’re also experts in designing and constructing commercial pools that elevate businesses and public spaces. Whether you’re planning a pool for a resort, community center, apartment complex, or a public aquatic facility, our team brings the expertise and innovation needed to deliver a top-quality pool that meets your needs and exceeds expectations.
Why Choose Cody Pools for Your Commercial Project?
With decades of experience and a portfolio that spans across the US, Cody Pools has established itself as a trusted leader in commercial pool construction. Here’s what sets us apart:
Tailored Designs: We collaborate with you to create a pool design that aligns with your brand, enhances user experience, and fits seamlessly into your space.
Compliance Expertise: Commercial pools must meet strict regulations and safety standards. Our team ensures your project adheres to all local, state, and federal codes.
Durable Construction: Built to withstand high traffic and heavy use, our commercial pools are crafted with top-quality materials and advanced construction techniques.
On-Time Delivery: We understand the importance of deadlines in commercial projects. Our streamlined process ensures your pool is completed on schedule.
Key Considerations for Commercial Pool Design
When designing a commercial pool, functionality and aesthetics go hand in hand. Here are some factors we focus on to ensure a successful outcome:
Purpose: Is the pool for recreation, fitness, or therapy? Each use requires unique features, such as lap lanes, splash pads, or ADA-compliant access points.
Capacity: Accurate calculations for user load help us determine the right size and layout to accommodate visitors comfortably.
Amenities: Enhance user satisfaction with features like water slides, fountains, shaded lounge areas, or poolside cabanas.
Safety: From anti-slip surfaces to lifeguard stations, every element is designed to ensure a safe environment for guests.
Benefits of Commercial Pools
Adding a commercial pool to your property offers numerous advantages:
Increased Revenue: Pools attract more guests to resorts, hotels, and recreation centers, boosting profitability.
Community Engagement: Pools serve as gathering spots, fostering connections in neighborhoods and public spaces.
Enhanced Aesthetic Appeal: A well-designed pool can become the centerpiece of a property, elevating its overall look and feel.
Our Commercial Pool Services
At Cody Pools, we provide comprehensive services to take your commercial pool from concept to completion:
Custom Design & Planning: Collaborate with our experts to create a pool that aligns with your vision.
Construction: Using cutting-edge techniques, we build pools that are both beautiful and durable.
Renovation & Upgrades: Refresh an existing pool with modern features or repairs to improve its functionality and appeal.
Let’s Build Your Commercial Pool Together
Investing in a commercial pool is about more than just water—it’s about creating an experience. At Cody Pools, we’re passionate about helping businesses and communities unlock the full potential of their aquatic spaces.
Ready to get started? Contact Cody Pools today to schedule a consultation. Our team is here to guide you every step of the way, ensuring your commercial pool project is a success.
For inquiries, visit CodyPools.com or call us at 877-474-7665. Let us bring your vision to life with a pool that stands out and delivers unmatched quality.
Fall may signal the end of summer, but it’s far from the end of pool season! In places like Texas, Arizona, and Florida, fall often brings milder temperatures, making outdoor time more comfortable and enjoyable. Here are some of the best ways to take advantage of your pool in the fall and keep it in top shape for next summer.
1. Extend the Fun: Why Pool Season Isn’t Over Yet
In warmer climates like Texas, Arizona, and Florida, fall weather can still be quite warm, allowing for pool days well into October. Cooler evenings offer a refreshing contrast to warm water, especially if you use a pool heater. Enjoying fall pool parties or quiet evening swims can give you the best of both worlds.
Pro Tip: Consider adding lighting for evening swims. Pool lighting can create a relaxing atmosphere and extend your pool’s usability well into fall nights.
2. Lower Utility Bills with Less Evaporation
During the cooler months, the natural evaporation rate drops due to lower temperatures, which means you’ll likely see reduced water and chemical costs. With fewer direct rays from the sun, your pool water remains balanced longer and needs fewer adjustments, saving you time and money.
3. Pool Maintenance: Ideal Time for Inspection and Repairs
Fall is the perfect time to take care of any maintenance your pool might need. As use decreases, performing necessary repairs or renovations becomes much easier.
Inspect pool equipment like pumps, filters, and heaters for wear and tear, replacing or upgrading as needed.
Winterize plumbing and equipment if you’re in a cooler region or if temperatures are expected to drop.
Check pool surface and tile for cracks or chipping, as cooler weather is perfect for repair work.
Pro Tip: Fall maintenance can help you avoid unexpected repairs during peak swimming months, ensuring a hassle-free start to the next pool season.
4. Preparing Your Pool for Winter
Even if you’re not planning to close your pool, taking steps to prep for winter can prevent damage and make next season’s opening easier. Here are a few key steps:
Balance chemicals to maintain water quality and prevent corrosion.
Clean thoroughly by skimming, brushing, and vacuuming the pool.
Cover the pool if you don’t plan on using it regularly. A good cover reduces maintenance, keeps debris out, and reduces evaporation.
5. Plan Upgrades for Next Year
If you’ve been considering upgrades like a new pool finish, energy-efficient pumps, or adding a spa, fall and winter are ideal times to plan or start these projects. By starting upgrades now, you’ll be ready to dive into a refreshed pool next spring without any delays.
Popular Upgrades to Consider:
LED lighting upgrades to enhance the ambiance.
Energy-efficient pumps to save on energy costs all year long.
Conclusion: Embrace Your Pool This Fall!
With the right maintenance and a few enhancements, your pool can be a year-round oasis, especially in warmer climates like Texas, Arizona, and Florida. By staying proactive with fall care and upgrades, you’re setting up for smooth pool seasons for years to come.
