Everything You Need To Know About Choosing a Fiberglass Pool

Fiberglass pools are gaining popularity fast. Why? Consumers choose fiberglass for a number of reasons, primarily because fiberglass is affordable, durable, long-lasting. easy to care for, fast to install, and available in all the trendy design options you could want. Are you considering choosing a fiberglass pool?

We know you’ve heard a lot about vinyl liners versus fiberglass versus concrete pools, and you’re just looking for trustworthy information you can rely on. Here, we have all the information to help you discover everything you need to know about choosing a fiberglass pool. We sell all three types of swimming pools. So, we have no reason to shade the truth when it comes to the pros and cons of each type of pool. 

Fiberglass Pools are Made Differently

The difference in a fiberglass pool begins with the manufacturing process. Pool builders build vinyl liner and concrete pools onsite in your backyard. Manufacturers build fiberglass pools in a factory. Fiberglass pool shells arrive at your home as a complete unit. This means that fiberglass pools undergo a rigorous inspection process before leaving the manufacturer’s facilities. This is a process that isn’t present with either vinyl liner or concrete pools. Most installation professionals check their pool builds carefully after finishing the project, but this manufacturer inspection process does add an extra layer of quality checking to the pool buying process.

Fiberglass pool manufacturers construct the pool shells as a single unit. This means no seams and no potential for uneven application. The single unit is one of the main differences in the types of pools. Fiberglass leaves no seams, cracks, or crevices that algae tend to latch onto and grow in.

Although it looks like a single layer, fiberglass pool builders build the shells in several layers. This adds durability, longevity, and makes the fiberglass pool less susceptible to damage over time. This includes damage that causes leaks and faulty finishes, as well as damage from the sun, wind, and other environmental hazards.

Get a complete comparison of vinyl liner, fiberglass, and concrete pools here.

Fiberglass Pools are Installed Differently

Since the fiberglass pool arrives at your home as a fully manufactured item, the onsite build in your backyard is quicker and easier. Like all types of inground pools, the process begins with excavation (after the permitting process, of course!). Your pool arrives on a truck and is skillfully set into place. Then your installer begins the process of backfilling, or adding soil back around the pool structure, to hold it into place. Once this is complete, your installer can add the surround and finishing touches to your pool and landscaping.

Since no build takes place onsite, fiberglass pool installations generally go much quicker than vinyl liners or concrete. Also, since it’s a completed unit when it arrives, there’s no “wait time” that’s generally necessary with concrete pools while the concrete dries and sets. Your backyard is torn up and inaccessible for less time. That means your family can get the water chemistry adjusted and begin swimming far faster.

Fiberglass Pools are Easier & Cheaper to Own & Maintain

You’ve probably heard that fiberglass pools come with less “lifetime ownership costs” than either vinyl liner or concrete pools. The initial cost of fiberglass is usually a little higher than vinyl liner pools and a bit lower than concrete pools. So how is it the lowest ownership cost?

This all goes back to the seamless, single unit construction. Without seams and pores, it takes fewer chemicals to keep pool water clean and sanitary. Additionally, you’re not replacing a liner, which is a considerable cost, and you don’t have swimming downtime. Vinyl liners typically need to be replaced about once every decade or so. Concrete pools generally require some refinishing over time, as well, driving up ownership costs for gunite and shotcrete pools.

Families also enjoy knowing that they’re swimming in fewer chemicals. This is a strong selling point for those who are health and environmentally-conscious.

Typically, owners of fiberglass pools spend around $375 per year to maintain their pools. You can compare this to around $1,100 for vinyl liner pool owners, and some $2,700 for owners of concrete pools! You can get the insider scoop on what pool maintenance looks like for actual pool owners here.

Fiberglass Pools Come in All the Trendy Shapes & Colors

It’s often said that fiberglass pools “aren’t customizable”. While it’s true that you’re limited to the manufacturer’s sizes and shapes, fiberglass pools come in every conceivable popular design, including a wide range of color options. The overwhelming majority of pool owners have no trouble choosing a fiberglass pool that’s perfect for their backyards and lifestyles. Whether you’re looking for a compact pool for exercise or a grandiose swimming pool for entertaining tons of friends and family, you’ll find a pool to meet your needs.

Wondering if what you’ve heard about fiberglass pools is true? Check out our blog dispelling 5 Myths About Fiberglass Pools.

Fiberglass Pools are Compatible with All the Popular Features

You actually can achieve a great deal of customization with a fiberglass pool, in that you can opt for all of the popular features. This includes waterfalls, bubblers, lighting effects, and even saltwater sanitation systems. Tanning ledges and benches are also options on many fiberglass pool models. At Orange County Pools & Spas, you’ll work with professional designers who not only help you pick the right pool, but will also walk you through creating the entire landscaping experience. Learn all about building the ultimate family staycation with your new pool here!

The backyard of your dreams begins with a phone call. We want you to feel at ease when you make the final decision. We support the dream you envision in your backyard and reassure you of the quality you are getting. Our team is here to make your decision seamless and smooth. We desire to supply you with everything you need to know about choosing a fiberglass pool. It is our goal to equip you with the knowledge you need from the first decision to the first plunge. Please give us a call! In New Windsor, call 845-565-5777. In Mohegan Lake, call 914-528-9000.