Concrete Pools vs Fiberglass Pools

Over the years, experts have come up with several pool types that cater to different requirements. Today, the main types of pools include vinyl liner pools, fiberglass, and concrete pools. Each of these pools incorporates different materials and offer different functionality. Thus, if you are an aspiring pool owner, take your time to understand each of these pools. This way, you will install the most suitable pool that works for you. More often than not, individuals argue on which is the best pool between concrete and fiberglass. Well, this is a tough debate; I mean, each of these pools has its distinct benefits and drawbacks. In this article, we discuss concrete pools vs fiberglass pools in detail.

Lifetime and initial costs: Concrete pools vs fiberglass pools

In terms of costs, concrete pools are more costly. Concrete pools incorporate both high initial and lifetime costs. You should know that constructing a concrete pool costs over $50,000. On the flip side, fiberglass pools cost approximately $45,000 to install. Maintaining a concrete pool is also more costly due to the resurfacing procedures required after some years. Fiberglass pools don’t require high maintenance practices. Thus, they have low lifetime costs. So, if you are working under a tight budget, fiberglass pools will work well for you.

Maintenance procedures: Concrete pools vs fiberglass pools

Typically, concrete pools will need more maintenance procedures compared to fiberglass pools. Concrete pools are often prone to unbalanced water chemistry and algae breeding grounds. Consequently, you’ll have to keep checking the acidity and alkalinity of the concrete pool. Use a pH test strip to check the acidity/alkalinity of the pool. Additionally, vacuum the pool often to remove any existing algae.

The surface of a fiberglass pool rarely tampers on the water chemistry. But keep in mind that you still have to keep monitoring the fiberglass pool to ensure it is in good condition. The majority of fiberglass pools are algae resistant. So, algae are not common in fiberglass pools. All in all, maintaining a concrete pool is more time-consuming than taking care of a fiberglass pool.

Versatility:

Beyond a shadow of a doubt, highly versatile pools are ideal for enhancing your property’s aesthetics. So, always consider this aspect before you settle for a particular pool. Typically, concrete pools are the most versatile pools. With concrete pools, you can create any pool design and shape you can imagine. In fact, most world-class pools are concrete pools.

Fiberglass pools, on the other hand, do not offer as much versatility. Since they are ready-made, fiberglass pools cannot exceed a certain size due to transportation. Additionally, you cannot customize a fiberglass pool to fit almost any shape or design. Ultimately, when it comes to versatility, fiberglass pools take the trophy.

Finishing material

All fiberglass pools incorporate a gel coating on the interior surface. Often, this gel coating is responsible for its durability. Also, the material provides an ideal surface to swim across. Conversely, concrete pools accommodate a wide range of finishing materials: plaster, aggregate, glass, ceramic, among others.

Nonetheless, the most popular finishing material is plaster. Most swimmers usually complain of the rough texture of concrete pool surfaces. That’s why concrete pools often need resurfacing from time to time. In terms of the interior texture, fiberglass pools offer a more conducive environment for swimming.

Installation time

Constructing a concrete pool can take you months. This is because the concrete should be left to cure for at least 28 days. Thus, if you desire to construct your pool within short period, concrete pools are unquestionably not for you. When constructing a concrete pool, get prepared to have a messy backyard for about three months. In most instances, fiberglass pools are ready-made. Thus, it takes several weeks to complete the installation. If you have many contractors on site, it can take you a week or two to complete fiberglass installation.

Longevity

Both concrete and fiberglass pools offer high durability. Even so, concrete pools are more durable. These pools are very robust due to the steel frameworks and can last you for decades. However, note that when you use a salt chlorinator in a concrete pool, durability gets reduced. Fiberglass pools are also long-lasting and incorporate fewer maintenance procedures. Nonetheless, they are prone to cracks caused by strong external pressure.

Which pool is worth the purchase? Concrete pools vs Fiberglass pools

It is clear to see a detailed comparison of concrete pools vs fiberglass pools. Undoubtedly, both pools each offer unique advantages and disadvantages. The best option among the two varies depending on your requirements. For instance, if you want a pool within a month, a fiberglass pool would be your best alternative.

On the other hand, if you want to customize your pool, a concrete pool will work best for you. At the end of the day, you have to understand each of these pools and find the pool that caters to your requirements. But generally, fiberglass pools are better. These pools are cheaper and more manageable. It is so much easier to maintain a fiberglass pool. Fiberglass pools offer value for money. Contact us today!