Modulo

VS

Container

Not all prefab pools are built the same.
While container pools may look appealing at first, they are ultimately shipping containers adapted to hold water—bringing limitations in durability, interior comfort, design flexibility, and long-term performance.

Modulo was engineered from the ground up to be a pool.

With a purpose-built steel structure, a thick reinforced PVC membrane for true waterproofing, flexible sizing options, and fully customizable exterior finishes, Modulo delivers a refined prefab pool experience that container pools simply can’t match.

The difference isn’t just what you see on the surface—it’s everything underneath. From structural integrity and corrosion protection to architectural integration and long-term value, Modulo is designed to perform and endure.

Here’s how Modulo compares to container pools.

 

Structure & Durability

Criteria Modulo (Steel & Reinforced PVC Membrane) Container Pool

Structural Material

Purpose-built reinforced steel shell

Modified shpping container

Design Intent

Engineered specifically as a pool

Originally designed for freight

Strenght & Stability

Structural, uniform, predictable

Can be weakened by cut-outs & mods

Corrosion Protection

Exterior siding + epoxy industrial coating + interior PVC membrane (fully sealed)

Relies mainly on paint for protection

Leak Risk at Joints

Very low

Higher at welds, corners, and seams

Expected Structural Performance

Built for long-term pool use

Depends on container age and modifications


Interior Finish

Criteria Modulo (Reinforced PVC Membrane) Container Pool (Painted Interior)

Waterproofing System

Heat-welded reinforced PVC membrane

Paint / spray-on coating

Thickeness

3x thicker thand standard inground liners

Thin coating layer

Comfort Underfoot

Soft, pleasant surface

Hard steel surface

Impact / Scratch Resistance

Absorbs impacts; damage stays local

Coating can chip, exposing bare steel

Repairability

Easy: patch or replace membrane

Local repairs often visible; may need re-coating

Pet-Friendly

Very good

Scratches can lead to rust over time


Installation & Flexibility

Criteria Modulo Container Pool

Installation Types  

Above ground, semi inground, inground  

Above ground, semi inground, inground

Installation on Piles

✔ Possible

✔ Possible

Base Options (Stone or Slab)

✔ Yes

✔ Yes

Installation Time

Typically 1 - 3 days

Typically similar, 1 - 3 days

Relocatable

✔ Yes

✔ Yes (shipping form factor)

Interior Modules

8 options + custom configurations (steps, benches, tanning ledge, etc.)

Limited: fixed layout, simple bench/steps

Skimmer Placement

Fully flexible

Usually fixed by manufacturer

Available Sizes

12+ size options

Limited to container sizes (e.g. 20', 40')


Climate Resistance & Maintenance

Criteria Modulo Container Pool

Freeze/Thaw Behavior

Designed for Canadian climate

Coating and welds more exposed

Corrosion Risk

Membrane protects steel from water

Interior steel depends on paint only

Maintenance

Low; focus on membrane care

Higher; periodic repainting may be needed

Pet & Impact Use

Membrane tolerates pets & daily use

Scratches/chips can start rust points

Visual Aging Inside

Membrane can be fully renewed

Coating can fade, chalk, or peel


Aesthetic & Customization

Criteria Modulo Container Pool

Interior Look

Wide variety of PVC membrane colors & patterns

Solid painted interior

Ability to Update Interior Finish

Membrane can be replaced anytime

Requires stripping/repainting

Overall Apperance

Modern, architectural

''Industrial container'' look

Exterior Siding Options

Compatible with any siding; some can be pre-assembled before delivery

Corrugated container walls; exterior cladding is possible but not designed for easy siding