Understanding Pool Bottoms: Portland Cement vs. Vermiculite
When it comes to inground swimming pools, the bottom layer plays a crucial role in maintaining the pool's structure and longevity. Two common materials used for pool bottoms are Vermiculite and Portland cement. While both serve the purpose of creating a smooth and stable base, there are significant differences between the two in terms of durability and long-term performance.
What is Vermiculite?
Vermiculite is a natural mineral that expands when heated. It is often used in pool construction as a lightweight and cost-effective option for creating a smooth pool bottom. Vermiculite is porous, which means it has the ability to drain excess water from the pool area, preventing issues such as standing water and potential damage to the pool structure.
The Drawbacks of Vermiculite
While Vermiculite offers some benefits, it also has notable drawbacks, particularly in terms of durability. Over time, Vermiculite can become compressed and develop dents or divots in the pool bottom. This can create an uneven surface and may eventually lead to the need for pool bottom replacement, typically within 20 years of installation. Additionally, Vermiculite is not as sturdy as other materials, making it more prone to damage from heavy objects or sharp impacts.
The Superiority of Portland Cement
In contrast to Vermiculite, Portland cement offers a higher level of durability and longevity for pool bottoms. Portland cement is a type of hydraulic cement that hardens when mixed with water, forming a solid and stable base for the pool. Unlike Vermiculite, Portland cement does not dent or compress over time, ensuring a smooth and even surface for years to come.
Why Super Pools Prefers Portland Cement
At Super Pools, we prioritize quality and durability in all aspects of pool construction, which is why we exclusively use Portland cement for our pool bottoms. Portland cement provides unmatched strength and resilience, ensuring that our pools stand the test of time. By utilizing Portland cement, we can guarantee that our customers enjoy a smooth and reliable pool bottom that requires minimal maintenance and upkeep.
In the debate between Vermiculite and Portland cement for pool bottoms, the choice is clear: Portland cement offers superior quality and longevity compared to Vermiculite. While Vermiculite may provide initial cost savings, the need for eventual replacement and maintenance outweighs any short-term benefits. At Super Pools, we remain committed to delivering the highest standards of excellence in pool construction, and our use of Portland cement is a testament to that commitment. Choose Super Pools for a pool that's built to last a lifetime, contact us today by filling out our form!
