pool-deck

Fiberglass vs. Concrete Pools

When deciding on what type of pool is better, there are several things to consider. Options change depending on if the pool will be used mainly by small children or adults. If the pool will be placed in a setting where it’ll be used seasonally or if you’ll use it all year, longevity becomes important. The choice of fiberglass or concrete as the pool’s material is a very important decision.

The debate

Manufacturers and installers of concrete pools will try to convince you that their product is better. Companies that specialize in fiberglass pools will do the same. The truth is is that no pool is perfect. The secret to an informed decision is a comprehensive review of the pros and cons of both types of pool, keeping your own needs and circumstances in mind

The concrete opinion

A concrete pool can be built in a very specific or customized layout. If you use the pool for deep dives, it’s required to have a pool deeper than eight feet (2.4384 meters) and concrete resists the pressure of the ground that surrounds the pool in a better way. If your garden around the pool is irregularly shaped or very wide (more than 16 feet [4.8768 meters]), concrete is justified, as it can be modified to fit. If you’re looking for the pool to be an integral part of a landscaping plan you should make it have the look of a pond with stones surrounding it with a decorative waterfall.  Concrete would be the best option for this.

The choice of fiberglass

If a pool of 16 feet (4.8 meters) by 40 feet (12.1 meters) or less fits your needs, fiberglass is fine. Fiberglass is ready for use in a very short amount of time so if you need your pool installed quickly, fiberglass is the way to go. If soil stability is a problem in the area in which you live, a fiberglass pool flexes, making it a good choice. If a maximum depth of eight feet (2.4384 meters) is all you need, the fiberglass is the way to go.

Installation Considerations

A concrete pool is created in a certain place and not limited to a specific design. The fiberglass is created in a factory and delivered to your backyard for installation. The concrete pool can be made to size and shape of your garden. The fiberglass pool requires a deck surrounding according to the same specifications.

Maintenance

Concrete is a porous substance that can have some sort of chemical reaction with the pool. Fiberglass is a deposit of inert resin that wouldn’t have a reaction to pool water. The fiberglass pools take less time and money to keep than their concrete counterparts. The longevity of any of the types of the pool depends on where it is placed and how it is used. Concrete pools can be expensive to fix if cracks appear after prolonged use. Repairs to fiberglass pools are not as expensive.

For children

Fiberglass pools have a surface covered with a gel surface. Scrapes and abrasions are rare in a pool of this type. Concrete pools can be customized with slides and other fun features. If the pool is made of fiberglass children can use their inflatable toys and diving equipment without risking scraping the sides of the pool.