HomeBlogPoolFiberglass vs. Concrete Pools: Discovering the Pros and Cons

Fiberglass vs. Concrete Pools: Discovering the Pros and Cons

July 17, 2024
16 minutes to read

“A pool is, after all, a space of leisure, not labor.” This insight from Rebecca Solnit’s Wanderlust: A History of Walking captures what a pool represents in a home — a place for relaxation and an escape from daily chores. 

Luxurious backyard with a fiberglass pool surrounded by lush greenery and a modern home

If you’re considering adding such an oasis to your life, you may need help navigating the fiberglass vs. concrete pool debate. Both options have their strengths, but each comes with unique pros and cons. In the article, we will compare these two pool types according to the following criteria: 

  • Cost
  • Installation
  • Customization
  • Interior Surface Texture
  • Durability
  • Appearance
  • Maintainance and repair
  • Resale Value

Read on for our comparison and find out which pool type best suits your backyard.

What Is a Fiberglass Pool?

A fiberglass pool is a one-piece swimming pool made from fiberglass-reinforced plastic that is molded into a specific shape and size in a factory before being delivered to your home. 

This is the pool you envision when imagining a quick and seamless installation, ready for summer fun almost as soon as it arrives.

Pros of a Fiberglass Pool

When deciding between a fiberglass pool vs. concrete, it helps to consider the benefits of the former. Here are the main advantages: 

  • Energy Efficiency: Fiberglass pools tend to be more energy-efficient than other types. Their smooth surfaces and excellent insulation help maintain water temperature, potentially lowering heating costs.
  • Low Maintenance: Fiberglass pools have a smooth, non-porous surface that not only feels nice to the touch but also discourages algae growth, making maintenance simpler and swimming more enjoyable.
  • Durability and Flexibility: They’re known for their durability and flexibility, too, which means they handle shifts in the soil and changes in temperature well, reducing the likelihood of cracks. 
  • Aesthetic Appeal: These pools come in various designs and finishes, including options that mimic tiles or natural stone.

Cons of a Fiberglass Pool

There are, of course, some disadvantages of fiberglass pools to be aware of:

  • Limited Customization: Unlike concrete pools that can be formed into nearly any shape or size, fiberglass pools are pre-molded, which means you must choose from existing designs and sizes. This can be limiting if you have specific aesthetic or spatial requirements.
  • Transportation and Installation Limitations: Fiberglass pools must be transported to your site in one piece due to their pre-formed nature. This can pose challenges with access, requiring sufficient space for delivery. If your home is in a location with narrow roads or obstacles like low-hanging branches, the installation might be tricky or even impossible without additional costs.
  • Depth and Width Constraints: The size and depth of fiberglass pools are generally less than what can be achieved with concrete pools. This might be a limitation if you’re looking for a particularly deep or large pool.
  • Surface Color Fading: The gel coat finish on fiberglass pools can fade over time, especially in areas with intense sunlight. This can affect the pool’s aesthetic appeal.
  • Potential for Bulging Walls: Fiberglass pools rely on the support of the surrounding soil to maintain their shape. If groundwater conditions are not adequately managed, it can lead to bulging or shifting of the pool walls.
  • Repair Complexity: While durable, a fiberglass pool sometimes needs repair. Minor or cosmetic repairs can cost up to $500 while major repairs can cost up to $5,000. Surface refinishing can cost up to $15,000.  

What is a Concrete Pool?

A concrete pool, sometimes referred to as a gunite or shotcrete pool, is constructed on-site and offers more versatility in terms of design when comparing a concrete vs. fiberglass pool. 

This is the pool that reminds you of sleek, modern resorts, where the design seamlessly blends with its surroundings.

It’s built by spraying a mix of concrete and sand over a rebar framework. Here’s how the building process generally unfolds:

  1. Design and Excavation: First, the desired shape and size of the pool are marked and excavated.
  2. Framework Installation: A grid of steel reinforcing bars (rebar) is installed to give the concrete structure and strength.
  3. Concrete Application: Concrete is then sprayed over the rebar as gunite (dry mix) or shotcrete (wet mix) and shaped according to the design.
  4. Finishing Touches: After the concrete cures, the pool is finished with a waterproof coating and can be further customized with tiles, plaster, paint, or other finishing materials.

As you can see, the process is much more involved than the easy installation of a fiberglass pool.

Pros of a Concrete Pool

Here are some of the main reasons people are willing to go to the extra effort for concrete:

  • Tailored Design: Concrete pools offer greater customization options. Whatever shape, size, or depth you envision, concrete can accommodate it, making it perfect for unique or challenging landscapes.
Modern backyard with a concrete pool, stylish lounge chairs, and a contemporary home
  • Aesthetic Versatility: Concrete’s aesthetic possibilities are endless. Choose from a variety of finishes, such as plaster, pebble, tile, or painted surfaces, to match your personal style and enhance your outdoor space.
  • Durability: Built to stay, concrete pools can last up to 50 years or more. 
  • Depth Flexibility: Ideal for diving, concrete pools can be constructed with varying depths.

Cons of a Concrete Pool

When deciding on the winner of a fiberglass vs. concrete pools matchup, it can come down to these disadvantages: 

  • Higher Cost: Concrete pools are generally more expensive than other types in initial installation and long-term maintenance. This includes higher materials, labor, and finishing costs – sometimes necessitating pool financing.
  • Lengthy Installation Time: Building a concrete pool is quite involved, taking anywhere from three to six months, sometimes even longer.
  • Maintenance Intensity: Concrete pools require more upkeep than fiberglass. The porous surface can harbor algae, necessitating frequent cleaning and more chemicals to keep the pool clean and balanced.
  • Regular Resurfacing: Every 10 to 15 years concrete pools typically need to be resurfaced. This process involves chipping out the old plaster and applying new coating, which can be quite costly ($11,000 on average, depending on the material you choose)
  • Climate Sensitivity: Concrete pools in colder climates can be damaged by freeze-thaw cycles. Water can seep into small cracks, freeze, and cause the concrete to crack further.
  • Repair Costs: Minor cracks can cost up to $1,000 to fix, while major cracks and leaks can cost upwards of $10,000. 

Fiberglass vs. Concrete Pool: Key Differences

Now that you’ve learned the basics about fiberglass and concrete pools, let’s explore them further to see how the two options compare. 

AspectFiberglass PoolConcrete PoolWinner
Pool CostA fiberglass inground pool costs between $20,000 and $60,000 nationwide. This price can fluctuate based on size, features, and local labor rates. The upfront cost is higher than some pool types but not as high as concrete. Also, lower maintenance expenses may offset it over time.Concrete pools range from $35,000 to $100,000 or more. This price variation depends on the pool’s size, design complexity, and finishing details such as tiles, custom steps, and additional features like waterfalls. Fiberglass
Installation Typically, they can be installed in about one to two weeks. Since the pool arrives pre-made, the main tasks are excavation, setting the pool, connecting plumbing, and backfilling.As discussed earlier, building a concrete pool is a labor-intensive process. The installation usually spans several weeks to months, commonly around three to six months from start to finish. The design complexity, weather conditions, and contractor schedules can influence the timeline.Fiberglass
CustomizationWhile offering a range of shapes and styles, fiberglass pools are limited to pre-designed molds. This makes them less flexible if you desire a non-standard shape or size.Customizable to any shape, depth, and style imaginable. Concrete is your go-to whether you want a lazy river, an irregularly shaped lagoon, or a pool that fits perfectly into an awkward space.Concrete
Surface TextureThe gel-coated surface of a fiberglass pool is smooth to the touch, reducing the risk of scraped knees and providing a more comfortable swimming experience. This sleek finish also contributes to the pool’s ease of maintenance.The texture of a concrete pool can vary depending on the chosen finish. It can range from smooth plaster to textured pebble surfaces. Each offers a different aesthetic and tactile experience but may require more attention to prevent algae growth due to its porosity.It’s a toss-up
DurabilityFiberglass is remarkably durable, flexing to accommodate earth movements that might crack less resilient materials. This flexibility ensures a long lifespan with less likelihood of structural damage.Concrete pools are the epitome of permanence. They are incredibly durable and can last a lifetime. However, their rigidity makes them more susceptible to cracking in areas with significant freeze-thaw cycles.Concrete
AppearanceThese pools offer a modern and clean look, with a shiny, smooth surface in various colors and finishes that resemble natural materials.They can be adorned with custom tiles, colored plaster, and other luxurious finishes that elevate the backyard into a resort-like setting.Concrete
MaintenanceThe non-porous surface simplifies cleaning, significantly reducing the time and chemicals needed to keep the pool pristine. This aspect particularly appeals to those who prefer swimming more than scrubbing.Requires more rigorous and frequent maintenance routines. The porous nature of concrete means it absorbs chemicals and harbors algae, necessitating more regular, thorough cleaning and chemical balancing to maintain a healthy swimming environment.Fiberglass
Resale ValueCan increase home resale value by up to 8%.Likely to have a bigger than 8% increase on resale value due to superior durability and aesthetic appeal.Concrete

Tips on How to Choose the Right Pool

Choosing between fiberglass and concrete pools is not just a matter of taste but also a consideration of lifestyle, budget, and commitment to maintenance. Each type offers unique benefits that can make your home a beloved summer destination or a year-round retreat.

Clear blue pool in a serene backyard setting

Here are some final tips on how to help you choose between fiberglass pools vs. concrete pools.

  • Consider Your Lifestyle: Fiberglass might be the way to go if quick installation and lower maintenance are priorities. However, concrete could be a better fit for those who prioritize unique design and long-term durability.
  • Think Long-Term: Evaluate the upfront costs and the long-term investment in maintenance, repairs, and potential upgrades. Fiberglass often offers savings down the road, while concrete provides enduring value in customization and permanence.
  • Visualize the Finished Product: Imagine how each type of pool will look in your space. Consider the aesthetic you’re aiming for – sleek and modern (fiberglass) or bespoke and integrated into your landscape (concrete).
  • Consult Professionals: Speak with pool installation professionals who can provide insights and share experiences with both types of pools in your local climate and soil conditions.
  • Test the Waters: If possible, try out both types of pools at a friend’s house, a community center, or a showroom. You can also rent residential pools by the hour using the Swimply app. Getting a feel for the surface underfoot and the overall experience can help cement (or fiberglass) your decision. 

Conclusion

Whichever one you choose in the fiberglass vs. concrete pools matchup, you’re on the brink of countless splash-filled days and relaxing evenings. Here’s to making a splash in a pool that’s not just another amenity but a reflection of your home’s personality. 

About Author
Jordan Ellis
Written by Jordan Ellis
Senior Content Creator and Financial Advisor
Jordan Ellis is a Senior Content Creator at Renovate.com, specializing in home renovation loans. Jordan has more than 10 years of experience in finance. Jordan offers insights on financing options and renovation strategies.

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