One of the most common questions potential pool buyers ask is “What’s the difference between a fiberglass pool and a concrete or vinyl pool?”. There are some major differences between these three types of pool construction, and multiple reasons why a fiberglass pool can offer you a more enjoyable pool ownership experience.
Most people are familiar with concrete pools like those found in hotels or water parks. These pools are built using rebar and a sprayable form of concrete called gunite. A gunite pool can be made any shape or size and then tiled and painted any colour you like. If your project requires a very custom design, then a gunite pool is likely your only option. Depending on your location, gunite pools can be the most expensive pool construction due to the amount of time and skilled labour required. And when it comes to maintenance, gunite pools are the most work intensive, mostly due to the porosity and rough texture of the surface which can host algae. Regularly scheduled cleaning, brushing and chemical balancing is key to keeping a gunite pool ready for swimming.
A common option for many backyard pool installations is a vinyl liner pool, which typically consists of a concrete base and steel wall structure covered with a thin layer of pliable vinyl to hold water. The vinyl is usually patterned on the surface with a tile print bordering the water line. Most liners measure between 20-40 mils thick (about the thickness of a plastic ID card) and typically last between 8-12 years before the colours have faded, patterns have worn off and the material gets brittle, resulting in rips or tears. While minor holes can be patched, major tears in the vinyl usually require a total replacement. Similar to gunite, regular cleaning, brushing and chemical balancing is important as vinyl is porous and also contains seams and sometimes wrinkles that can harbour algae. Liner pool installations will be priced more economically than gunite, and most often you will choose your pool from a catalog of common shapes and sizes. Custom options are also available from some builders and manufacturers.
The first and most noticeable difference when comparing gunite and vinyl pools to fiberglass is in the surface finish. A fiberglass pool is made with smooth, non-porous gel coat which is also commonly used in boat building. The smooth surface makes these pools resistant to algae and also easy to clean – no scrubbing or brushing required. Gel coat is available in many
different finishes, some with shimmer or sparkle mixed in that will look great for a lifetime of use. Like gunite pools, real tile can be installed around the top edge of your pool and provide a highly durable upgrade to the finished product, but unlike gunite your fiberglass pool does not require re-painting every 5-8 years. When compared to vinyl, the hard surface of a fiberglass pool is more durable and cannot be punctured by animals, tree branches or patio furniture. The time required to replace a damaged or faded vinyl liner, from ordering to installation, averages between two to four weeks, during which time you may not be able to use your pool. With fiberglass, your pool is always ready for swimming when you are.
Similar to many gunite pools, fiberglass pools commonly feature built-in benches, sun ledges and steps. Just like a Caribbean resort, you will have sun ledges built right into your pool where you can relax and lounge anytime you like. These benches, as well as the steps, are the same colour and material as the rest of the pool, which is not typical of vinyl liner pools. The seamless, uniform colour of a fiberglass pool provides a clean, elegant look for any backyard.
Installation time is also a factor to consider when looking at various pool types. Fiberglass pools generally take anywhere from 1-5 days to install, depending on access for excavation equipment and the size of the pool being installed. Compare that to 2-4 weeks for vinyl liner pools and 6-10 weeks for concrete pools, and you will be glad you chose fiberglass.
In the end, people who choose fiberglass over other types of pools do so because they want the most for their money. We believe fiberglass pools offer you the most fun, the easiest maintenance, the fastest install and the best backyard experience possible.
