In comparison to concrete pools, fibreglass has several advantages.
To install a concrete pool takes upward of three months, for a fibreglass pool it takes about five to seven days. Concrete pools are surfaced in plaster and often painted, this means you cannot have the sparkly surface that fibreglass affords which amplifies light reflection. Additionally the porous surface of the plaster is a perfect foothold for algae and massively increases the cleaning necessary to maintain an algae-free pool.
It can be difficult to balance a concrete pool as minerals leach into the water due to diffusion, this is what causes concrete pools to have pitted surfaces over time. Painted plaster and concrete pool surfaces also tend to deteriorate and begin to flake off into the pool over time, this makes the pool water cloudy when it is brushed and cleaned. Most concrete pools will need to be resurfaced every 8-12 years, it costs approximately $20k to resurface an 8m pool.
Additionally, because the surface of a concrete pool is porous and mineral movement happens due to diffusion, concrete pools must be maintained with a much higher salt and chlorine concentration which is less comfortable on the skin and eyes (especially for children). In contrast a fibreglass pool can be run on a freshwater system which enables the water to remain sanitary at almost no chlorine/salt. This saves a fair amount in ongoing costs in both maintenance and chemicals.
The advantage of a concrete pool is that the shapes you can create are more variable and the “outdoor pond pool” image can be achieved, this is a significant aesthetic advantage if that is your priority. The rising popularity of “Biophilic” pools for their aesthetic appeal is heavily supported by the natural look that can be achieved with concrete. Because of the nature of fibreglass pool manufacture coming from a mould they are not as diverse in their shapes.
Concrete vs Fibreglass: Comparison Summary
Whether you choose to put in a concrete or a fibreglass pool is entirely dependent on the priorities you have as a pool owner. There are several comparative points you must know before making your selection. Here is a quick summary:
| Feature | Fibreglass Pools | Concrete Pools |
|---|---|---|
| Installation Time | Typically 1–2 weeks | Several months, 3–6 months |
| Maintenance | Low (smooth surface resists algae and is easier to clean) | A lot higher (porous surface holds algae, requires upkeep and deteriorates both structurally and visually over time, resurfacing is necessary every 8–12 years) |
| Customisation | Limited designs but can be customized. | Highly customisable |
| Durability | Long lasting – resistant to chemical issues, quality varies between brands. | Long-lasting with proper care, difficult to maintain, prone to cracks. |
| Cost | Moderate initial investment | Higher initial and ongoing costs |
Choosing between fibreglass and concrete pools depends on your priorities:
- If you value quick installation and low maintenance, a fibreglass pool may be ideal.
- If you desire custom design and are prepared for higher maintenance, a concrete pool may be ideal.
