When it comes to choosing a pool, three popular choices come to our mind: vinyl, fiberglass, and concrete. Each has its benefits and drawbacks. This article will cover the comparison of Concrete Pool Vs Fiberglass Pool. We’ll discuss the Vinyl pool at a later date.
So, today, we share our knowledge with you, the homeowner/pool owner. At the end of the day, this article will help you decide which best suits you. How concrete pools and concrete compare in the following areas:
- Cost
- Customization
- Installation
- Surface Texture
- Durability
- Maintenance
- Chemical Usage
Concrete vs. Fiberglass Pools: Which is Right for You?
- Fiberglass Pools:
- Lower initial and lifetime cost
- Faster installation
- Easier maintenance and lower chemical usage
- Smooth surface
- Concrete Pools:
- Highly customizable shapes and designs
- Durable structure, but higher upfront and ongoing costs
Cost(Initial and lifetime)
Fiberglass Pools:
The Fiberglass base package starts from $55000 for a small pool 10’x20′ in size.
The base package only includes: permits, plumbing, excavation, the pool shell, sanitation, and enough water to fill the pool.
According to pool builders from the country, homeowners spend between 70k to 135k for a complete turn-key installation, covering the base package, additional features, and necessary work to comply with local building codes. The cost can go above 135k if you use premium materials and some upgrades.
Concrete Pools:
Concrete starts at around $65,000 for similar-sized pools such as 10’x20′ and can go much higher.
The base package will include permits, excavation, the pool’s structure, sanitation, and enough water to fill the pool the first time.
The Base package will not include final grading, fencing, or electrical work.
Concrete, compared to fiberglass, is costly to maintain due to regular surface refinishing, acid washing, and higher energy consumption.
Conclusion
While initial costs are similar, fiberglass pools are generally more cost-effective in the long run.
Infographics: Concrete Pool vs. Fiberglass Pool
| Feature | Concrete Pools | Fiberglass Pools |
| Budget | $55,000 or more | $65,000 or more |
| Shape and Depth | Customizable | Up to 16’x40′ |
| Maintenance | High | Low |
| Surface Texture | Rough | Smooth |
| Long-Term Costs | High | Low |
Customization
Fiberglass Pools
Fiberglass pool comes in pre-molded and is available in set shapes and sizes, but the option for customizability is limited. It ranges from 10 to 16 feet wide and 20 to 40 feet long.
While it comes in limited shapes still, you can make some customizability, such as adding features like tanning ledge colorful finishes and lighting.
Concrete Pools
Concrete offers an unlimited number of shapes and sizes; you can choose which shape the pool should be and how much depth the pool should be. It makes it ideal for a unique pool design, and you want something unconventional like a giraffe-like pool.
Conclusion
If full control over your pool’s shape and design is essential, a concrete pool is your best option. However, if you prefer a more straightforward approach with sufficient customization options, fiberglass pools can still meet your needs.
Installation Time
Fiberglass Pools
Fiberglass pools are manufactured off-site and delivered as a single unit. Installation typically takes only a few days for the pool itself, followed by a few weeks for finishing touches like decking or landscaping.
Concrete Pools
Concrete pools require extensive on-site construction and can take anywhere from 3 to 6 months to complete. The process includes excavation, rebar framing, gunite application, curing, and final finishing.
Conclusion
Fiberglass pools offer a significantly faster installation timeline, making them ideal if you want a quicker turnaround for your pool project.
Interior Surface Texture
Fiberglass Pools
The smooth gelcoat surface of fiberglass pools is easy on the skin and comfortable to walk on. Anti-slip areas on steps and ledges are still gentle enough to avoid abrasions.
Concrete Pools
Concrete pools usually have a plaster surface, which feels rougher and can cause scrapes, often leading to “pool toe.” Other finishes like tiles or aggregate offer smoother surfaces but can be more expensive.
Conclusion
For a smooth and comfortable surface, fiberglass pools excel by default, while concrete pools require additional investment for a comparable finish.
Durability
Fiberglass Pools
Fiberglass pools are durable and well-suited to various climates. They’re also pet-friendly and less likely to suffer from surface damage. However, improper water chemistry can degrade the gel coat over time.
Concrete Pools
Concrete pools are extremely durable, especially in terms of structural integrity. While the surface will need periodic replastering (typically every 10–15 years), the pool’s core remains strong.
Conclusion
Both types offer durable solutions, but fiberglass requires less ongoing surface maintenance.
Maintenance
Fiberglass Pools
Fiberglass pools are easier to maintain due to their non-porous surface, which resists algae buildup and debris accumulation. Routine cleaning is straightforward, and fewer chemicals are needed to balance the water’s pH and alkalinity.
Concrete Pools
Concrete pools require more maintenance because of their porous surface, which encourages algae growth. Regular brushing and more frequent chemical adjustments are necessary to keep the pool clean and balanced.
Conclusion
If low maintenance is a priority, fiberglass pools are the clear winner.
Chemical Usage
Fiberglass Pools
Fiberglass pools need less acid and have stable water chemistry, reducing chemical use and costs over time. They’re also less affected by calcium imbalances.
Concrete Pools
Concrete pools require frequent acid treatments to maintain pH levels. Additionally, you need to monitor calcium levels to avoid damaging the plaster.
Conclusion
Concrete pools generally require more chemicals, leading to higher maintenance costs.
Concrete Pool vs. Fiberglass Pool Final Verdict: Which Should You Choose?
Your choice depends on your priorities:
| Criteria | Concrete Pools | Fiberglass Pools |
| Budget Requirement | Budget of $70,000 or more | Budget of $70,000 or more |
| Custom Shape or Depth Options | Allows for custom shapes and depths (e.g., L shape, 9-foot deep end) | No custom shapes; limited to pre-determined options |
| Maintenance Needs | Requires more time/money for long-term maintenance | Less maintenance required |
| Texture on Feet | Rougher texture on feet | Smoother texture on feet |
| Size Limitations | No specific size limitations | Limited to 16’x40′ |
| Variety of Shapes | Fully customizable shapes | Pre-determined variety of shapes available |
| Long-term Costs | Higher long-term costs | Lower long-term costs |
| Installation Time | Longer installation time | Quicker installation |
- Choose Fiberglass Pools
if you want lower costs, faster installation, easier maintenance, and are okay with a pre-set design.
- Choose Concrete Pools
if customization, unique designs, and long-term structural durability are your top priorities, even at the expense of higher costs and longer installation.
